Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna

Remember that time I tried to decide between a creamy scampi and classic Italian comfort food? It resulted in this glorious chaos, a rich masterpiece that defies classification.

Prepare yourself for the ultimate weeknight indulgence: the decadentGarlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna. This is comfort food, leveled up.

• Rich garlic butter sauce combined with tangy lemon and creamy ricotta creates an unforgettable taste adventure that surprises everyone at the table.
• This recipe simplifies layering by using no-boil noodles and a quick, robust seafood filling, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions.
• Layers of golden shrimp nestled between creamy, bright white sauce and bubbling melted mozzarella look stunning and incredibly impressive when served.
• This fusion dish is perfect for elevating a standard family dinner or confidently impressing guests at your next gathering with minimal added complexity.

Why This Culinary Fusion Works

For years, I was a lasagna purist. Ricotta, beef ragù, maybe a touch of spinach, and that was it. If you tried to mess with the sacred layers of pasta, my Italian grandmother’s spirit would definitely haunt your kitchen. But then came the great seafood epiphany. I had a pound of perfectly fresh shrimp, a craving for bright, buttery scampi flavors, and zero energy to make two separate meals.

I realized the inherent genius of combining these two dishes. Lasagna provides the structure, the creamy, comforting architecture we adore, while scampi provides the vibrant, sophisticated flavor profile. Traditional scampi uses a delicate sauce often made with white grape juice with vinegar, but we achieve that same depth and tanginess using a robust chicken or vegetable broth infused with plenty of lemon juice and garlic. The results are phenomenal, hitting that perfect spot between richness and freshness.

The secret weapon here is the ricotta cheese layer. We don’t just use plain ricotta; we mix it thoroughly with Parmesan, herbs, and a secret pinch of nutmeg to create a savory binder that prevents the filling from becoming too watery. Furthermore, the combination of quick-cooking shrimp and no-boil noodles dramatically cuts down on active prep time. This layered pasta dish bakes into a bubbly, golden-brown marvel that smells incredible and delivers a perfect bite every single time.

The Art of the Garlic Butter Sauce

The foundation of any good scampi, whether traditional or in a layered bake, is high-quality butter and fresh garlic. You must not skimp on either. We start by slowly melting a generous amount of butter—using clarified butter can help reduce potential oil separation—and infusing it with freshly minced garlic until fragrant. This initial step is non-negotiable for flavor intensity. To replace the complexity typically offered by alcohol, we introduce chicken broth and a bright squeeze of fresh lemon juice, which cuts through the richness of the butter and cheese. A dash of red pepper flakes adds a welcomed warmth without overwhelming the delicate shrimp flavor. This sauce is essentially a velvety, flavorful bath that will coat both the pasta and the seafood, ensuring every layer bursts with that signature scampi zest.

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Lasagna NoodlesUse the no-boil variety to save significant time and ensure an easier assembly process.
• ShrimpChoose medium-sized (31/40 count) raw shrimp, peeled and deveined; fresh or frozen (thawed) works perfectly.
• Butter and Olive OilThese are essential for building the rich garlic butter base and sautéing the shrimp efficiently.
• Garlic and ShallotsFreshly minced garlic is crucial for that classic scampi flavor, supplemented by finely diced shallots for sweetness.
• Chicken Broth and Lemon JuiceThis combination provides the necessary liquid and acidity for the scampi sauce, replacing traditional grape juice with vinegar beautifully.
• Ricotta CheeseFull-fat ricotta provides the best texture and prevents the cheese layer from becoming runny during baking.
• Mozzarella CheeseShredded low-moisture mozzarella is needed for that perfect, gooey, melted cheese cap on top of the lasagna.
• Parmesan CheeseFreshly grated Parmesan adds a necessary salty, nutty depth to both the ricotta mixture and the scampi sauce.
• Fresh HerbsParsley and basil, chopped finely, bring a necessary brightness and freshness to balance the richness of the dairy.
• SeasoningsSalt, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preparing the Scampi Filling

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, melt the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced shallots and cook until soft, about three minutes, then stir in the garlic and red pepper flakes until fragrant, approximately one minute. Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Add the cleaned shrimp and cook just until they turn pink and opaque—this usually takes only 2 to 3 minutes. Do not overcook them, as they will finish cooking in the oven. Remove the skillet from the heat, stir in half of the chopped parsley, and season well with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Mixing the Ricotta Layer

In a separate large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, the remaining parsley, and the fresh basil. Add a pinch of nutmeg and a generous amount of black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until the mixture is completely homogeneous. This creamy layer acts as the binding agent for your lasagna, ensuring structural integrity and balancing the tangy scampi flavor.

Step 3: Assembling the Layers

Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Start by spreading a very thin layer of the scampi sauce (without the shrimp) across the bottom of the dish to prevent the noodles from sticking. Place three to four no-boil lasagna noodles over the sauce, ensuring they slightly overlap. Next, spread half of the prepared ricotta mixture evenly over the noodles, followed by half of the cooked scampi shrimp and sauce. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella over the top of the filling.

Step 4: Repeating and Finishing the Layers

Add a second layer of noodles, followed by the remaining ricotta mixture, the rest of the scampi shrimp and sauce, and then another sprinkle of mozzarella. Top with a final layer of noodles. Gently pour any remaining scampi sauce over the top layer of noodles to help them soften during baking. Finally, cover the entire dish generously with the remaining shredded mozzarella and a final light dusting of Parmesan cheese.

Step 5: Baking the Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna

Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake the lasagna in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully melted, bubbly, and golden brown. If you prefer a darker crust, you can briefly switch the oven to the broiler setting for the last two minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.

Step 6: Resting Before Serving

This step is critical for a structurally sound lasagna. Once removed from the oven, let theGarlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagnarest on a cooling rack for at least 15 to 20 minutes. This allows the creamy sauce to settle and solidify, preventing a messy, liquidy slice. Garnish with fresh basil leaves just before cutting and serving.

Transfer slices to plates and serve alongside a crisp green salad or crusty bread for the perfect finishing touch.

Expert Tips for Layering Success

Making a successful layered seafood bake requires attention to hydration and balance. One of the biggest mistakes people make with layered pasta dishes is rushing the process or mismanaging the moisture levels. Because shrimp naturally releases moisture as it cooks, we must ensure our sauce and cheese mixture are robust enough to absorb it without becoming soupy. That’s why using full-fat ricotta and briefly cooking the shrimp—stopping just shy of done—is important; the shrimp finishes cooking inside the casserole, maintaining a tender texture rather than becoming tough and rubbery.

Always remember the base layer of sauce. A thin coating of liquid at the bottom of the pan is vital for hydrating the first layer of no-boil noodles. If you skip this, your bottom noodles can dry out and become brittle, making slicing impossible. Also, when mixing the ricotta, draining any excess liquid is highly recommended. You want the ricotta to be thick, not watery. Adding a little egg white to the ricotta mixture is optional but provides extra binding power, acting like culinary glue to hold the layers together beautifully when slicing. Never underestimate the power of letting the lasagna rest after baking; patience here truly prevents kitchen catastrophes.

Troubleshooting Common Lasagna Woes

Runny lasagna is the bane of every layered pasta enthusiast. If your final dish seems too liquid, there are a few culprits. Firstly, ensure you are using no-boil noodles, which absorb significantly more moisture from the sauce than traditional boiled noodles. Secondly, check your ricotta—was it drained thoroughly? If your scampi sauce felt too thin, you can thicken it slightly before assembly by whisking in a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with cold water, which helps stabilize the liquid. Another critical tip is ensuring you tightly cover the lasagna for the initial bake. This steaming process allows the noodles to cook fully. When you remove the foil later, the dry heat allows the top layer to brown and seals the internal moisture. If you notice your edges are getting dark too quickly while the center is still pale, loosely drape foil back over the edges to slow the browning process.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lasagna

Can I prepare the Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna ahead of time?

Yes, you can fully assemble the lasagna up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator. When you are ready to bake, let it sit on the counter for about 30 minutes to take the chill off before adding about 10–15 minutes to the total baking time.

What can I use instead of chicken broth for the scampi flavor?

For a rich depth without using chicken, substitute the chicken broth entirely with a high-quality seafood stock or a robust vegetable broth. The key is ensuring the liquid carries the strong lemon and garlic flavors effectively.

Why are my shrimp rubbery?

Shrimp becomes rubbery when it is overcooked. For this recipe, it is essential that you cook the shrimp for only 2 to 3 minutes during the scampi preparation—they should only be barely pink. The residual cooking time in the oven will finish them perfectly, keeping them tender and succulent.

Should I let the lasagna rest after baking?

Absolutely. Resting is not optional; it’s a necessary step. Allowing the lasagna to rest for 15 to 20 minutes allows the internal heat to redistribute, the noodles to finish absorbing excess moisture, and the structure to firm up, ensuring clean, beautiful slices.

ThisGarlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagnapromises a show-stopping meal that combines comfort with elegance. Enjoy the compliments!

We all know lasagna. It’s that towering slab of comfort, the culinary equivalent of a warm hug from your Italian nonna. But sometimes, even perfection needs a plot twist. I remember the day I decided my standard meat sauce needed a vacation, preferably somewhere coastal and drenched in garlic butter. The result? Pure, unadulterated madness—the delicious kind. We took the velvety layers of classic lasagna, kicked the ricotta up a notch with lemon zest, and layered in juicy shrimp swimming in the most glorious garlic butter scampi sauce you have ever tasted. This isn’t your grandma’s Sunday dinner; this is what happens when lasagna decides to wear a tuxedo and go to a seafood rave. If you thought lasagna was just for winter nights, prepare yourself, because this bright, cheesy, and deeply savory dish is about to become your new year-round obsession. Forget boring fusion; thisGarlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagnais a certified masterpiece, proving that shrimp scampi and baked pasta were always meant to be soulmates.

The Anatomy of a Seafood Superstar

Creating this masterpiece requires balance. You need the richness of the creamy sauce to hold the layers together, the brightness of the scampi to cut through the cheese, and perfectly cooked shrimp that remain tender even after baking. We achieve that balance by skipping the heavy tomato base entirely and opting for a lush, velvety béchamel base infused with subtle lemon and fresh parsley. Layering is key: thin pasta, rich cream, bright scampi, and then repeat. Imagine cutting into those perfect squares, the aroma of roasted garlic and fresh seafood rising to greet you. It’s an experience that transforms a regular weeknight meal into a celebration.

Ingredients: Building the Flavor Foundation

Getting the right components ensures that this decadent take on shrimp scampi layered within pasta is structurally sound and bursting with flavor. We focus on high-quality dairy and fresh aromatics to elevate the seafood.

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 pound lasagna noodles (about 12 sheets), cooked al dente
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, divided
• 8 cloves garlic, minced (trust me, you need this much)
• 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley, plus extra for garnish
• 1/2 cup chicken broth or vegetable broth
• 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 cups béchamel sauce (see instructions below)
• 3 cups shredded Mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Crafting the Velvety Béchamel Sauce

The béchamel is the glue and the heart of this dish, offering a creamy counterpoint to the bright scampi filling. Please note: we are making a large batch to ensure every layer is adequately coated, preventing dryness.

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups whole milk, warmed
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• Salt and white pepper

To prepare the béchamel, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour constantly for about one minute until you have a pale, smooth paste (the roux). Slowly whisk in the warmed milk, ensuring no lumps form. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 8 to 10 minutes. Remove from the heat and stir in the nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Set aside. You will use this mixture to stabilize the cheese filling and coat the pasta layers.

Preparing the Star: Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi

This is where the magic happens. The key to perfect scampi is swift cooking and maximum flavor extraction from the garlic and butter. Do not overcook the shrimp in this initial stage, as they will finish cooking in the oven.

In a large skillet, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about one minute until fragrant; do not let it burn. Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, bringing it to a simmer. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp, cooking them just until they turn pink, about 2 to 3 minutes total. Stir in the fresh parsley, salt, and pepper. Remove the shrimp from the skillet using a slotted spoon, reserving all the flavorful garlic butter sauce in the pan. Roughly chop the cooked shrimp into bite-sized pieces. We are now ready to assemble the components for the ultimateGarlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna.

Assembling the Layers of Deliciousness

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. We are going to build this towering culinary achievement like a professional architect.

1. First Layer:Spread a thin layer of the béchamel sauce onto the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This prevents the pasta from sticking.
2. Pasta Base:Arrange a single layer of cooked lasagna noodles, slightly overlapping them if necessary.
3. Ricotta Filling:In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, beaten egg, Parmesan cheese, oregano, and a large pinch of salt and pepper. Spread half of the ricotta mixture evenly over the pasta sheets.
4. Shrimp Scampi Layer:Drizzle half of the reserved garlic butter sauce over the ricotta. Then, sprinkle half of the chopped shrimp evenly over the filling.
5. Cheese and Cream:Spread approximately one-third of the remaining béchamel sauce over the shrimp and sprinkle with one cup of Mozzarella cheese.
6. Repeat:Add another layer of noodles. Top with the remaining ricotta mixture, the remaining chopped shrimp, the rest of the garlic butter sauce, and another cup of béchamel sauce, followed by a second cup of Mozzarella.
7. The Top:Finish with a final layer of noodles. Pour the remaining béchamel sauce evenly over the top layer and sprinkle with the remaining Mozzarella cheese.

Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling, golden brown, and the sauce is perfectly heated through. Allow the lasagna to rest for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing. This resting period is non-negotiable; it helps the layers set beautifully.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preparing the béchamel sauce first, as it needs to thicken and cool slightly. Next, cook the lasagna noodles to a firm al dente, and while they drain, quickly sauté the shrimp in the garlic butter. This efficient sequence ensures all components are ready for rapid layering before baking.

Add Your Touch

For an extra layer of flavor, try folding some finely chopped spinach or roasted red peppers into the ricotta mixture. If you enjoy a touch of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes added to the scampi butter will provide a delightful kick. You can also swap shrimp for flakes of roasted white fish or tender scallops.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftoverGarlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagnatightly covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, cover individual slices with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until warm in the center, or microwave gently to maintain the moisture of the shrimp and sauce.

I remember serving this version for the first time at a family reunion, and Uncle Tony—a man who believes anything without ground beef is a salad—actually asked for seconds. That’s when I knew this seafood lasagna was officially legendary.

Expert Scampi Lasagna Tips

• Never fully cook the shrimp during the scampi stage; they should only be par-cooked (pink) to prevent a tough, rubbery texture after the final bake in the oven.
• Ensure your béchamel sauce is slightly thinner than usual before assembly, as the pasta and ricotta will absorb a significant amount of liquid while baking.
• Always reserve the garlic butter sauce after removing the shrimp; drizzling this over the ricotta adds intense moisture and ensures maximum scampi flavor throughout every layer.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lasagna Fusion

Can I prepare this lasagna ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can assemble the entireGarlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagnaup to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. Add an extra 10 to 15 minutes to the initial covered baking time when cooking straight from the fridge.

Why do I need to use whole milk in the béchamel?

Whole milk provides the necessary fat content and richness required for a stable, flavorful béchamel sauce that won’t separate or become watery during the long baking process. Avoid using skim milk for this recipe.

What is the difference between this and traditional meat lasagna?

Traditional lasagna often uses a heavy tomato and meat sauce, whereas this version uses a delicate, lemon-infused garlic butter scampi sauce and a rich, creamy béchamel, making it brighter and more suitable for showcasing seafood.

Is it necessary to use fresh lemon juice?

Yes, using fresh lemon juice is crucial. The sharpness and acidity of fresh citrus balance the richness of the butter and cheese, preventing the dish from becoming overly heavy, which is essential for a high-quality shrimp scampi.

This savory and bright twist on a classic Italian dish proves that comfort food doesn’t have to be predictable. The richness of the creamy béchamel, combined with the zing of lemon and garlic butter shrimp, creates an unforgettable culinary experience that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Enjoy this spectacular Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna, the ultimate merger of elegant seafood and hearty pasta.

Conclusion for Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna

The Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna is truly more than just a recipe; it is a delightful culinary experience that seamlessly blends the bright, elegant flavor of scampi with the comforting, cheesy tradition of Italian baked pasta. We successfully merged that zesty, garlicky profile and enveloped it in layers of creamy, rich goodness and perfectly cooked lasagna sheets. This incredible dish proves that sophisticated flavors can also exist within the bounds of satisfying comfort food. Whether you are aiming to impress your guests or simply treating yourself to a decadent weeknight meal, this seafood lasagna bake is guaranteed to earn significant rave reviews. Prepare for applause; your dedicated efforts crafting this cheesy, garlicky masterpiece are about to pay off immensely.

Print

FAQs

How do I ensure my Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna doesn’t get watery?

Watery lasagna is the bane of every pasta baker’s existence! The key to avoiding this catastrophe is controlling the moisture from the shrimp and the sauce. Thaw the shrimp completely and pat them aggressively dry before cooking. Also, when preparing the creamy scampi sauce, allow it to simmer longer than you think necessary—you want a sauce that heavily coats the back of a spoon, not a thin liquid. Using a good quality ricotta mixture blended with a binder like a little cornstarch also helps absorb excess liquid during the baking process, ensuring your final layers hold their shape perfectly and provide a satisfying texture.

Can I prepare this Seafood Lasagna ahead of time?

Absolutely! Preparing this dish in advance is a fantastic way to save time, especially when hosting a dinner party. You can assemble the entire Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna up to 24 hours before you plan to bake it. Cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap directly against the top layer of cheese, followed by a layer of aluminum foil, and store it in the refrigerator. When you are ready to cook, let the dish sit on the counter for about 30 minutes to take the chill off before placing it in the oven. This prevents the baking dish from cracking and ensures more even cooking throughout the center.

What are the best sides to serve with Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna?

Since the Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna is incredibly rich and wonderfully creamy, you want side dishes that offer a refreshing contrast and lightness. A crisp, peppery arugula salad tossed simply with a lemon vinaigrette and a sprinkle of shaved Parmesan cheese provides an excellent acidic cut to the richness of the seafood and cheese. Alternatively, lightly steamed asparagus or green beans sautéed briefly with slivered almonds and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice also pair beautifully. These simple, bright sides act as a refreshing palate cleanser and ensure the overall dining experience feels perfectly balanced.

What type of noodles should I use for a Scampi Pasta Bake?

Traditional dried lasagna sheets work wonderfully, but you have several great options! For this particular scampi bake, using oven-ready or no-boil lasagna noodles can save significant time and effort, provided you ensure your scampi sauce is slightly wetter than usual to allow for the proper rehydration of the pasta. If you use standard dried noodles, cook them intensely al dente; they will continue to soften and cook in the oven, and overcooked noodles lead to a mushy final product. We recommend ruffled pasta sheets because they catch the creamy garlic butter sauce perfectly in their ridges, maximizing the flavor distribution in every single bite.