There’s something about lasagna that just screams comfort, right? Now, imagine taking that warm, cheesy goodness and adding the ocean’s best—plump, juicy shrimp! My garlic butter shrimp scampi lasagna is a delightful twist on the traditional recipe, combining rich flavors and a creamy texture that’ll have you dreaming about it long after the last bite. I remember the first time I made this for my family; I was a bit nervous because, let’s be honest, shrimp and lasagna are not your everyday combo. But when they took that first forkful, their eyes lit up! Trust me, this dish doesn’t just elevate your dinner; it creates unforgettable memories around the table. You’ll absolutely love it!
Ingredients List
To whip up this delicious garlic butter shrimp scampi lasagna, you’ll need some straightforward yet essential ingredients. Here’s what you’ll be gathering:
- 12 lasagna noodles: These are the foundation of your dish, holding all that creamy goodness together.
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined: Fresh shrimp is key here! It really enhances the flavor and texture. If you can’t find fresh, frozen shrimp works too—just make sure to thaw it completely before using.
- 4 tablespoons butter: This will give your dish that rich, buttery flavor that pairs beautifully with the shrimp.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: The star of the show! Don’t skimp on this—garlic adds the perfect aromatic kick.
- 1 cup heavy cream: This makes everything creamy and dreamy. You could use half-and-half if you want a lighter version, but I recommend the heavy cream for that indulgent taste.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: A must-have for that salty, nutty flavor that complements the shrimp.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: This is what gives your lasagna that melty, gooey goodness on top.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: A fresh touch to brighten up the flavors. Feel free to swap with basil if you prefer!
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.
Remember, using fresh ingredients makes a world of difference in taste! If you need to cater to dietary restrictions, gluten-free noodles can be a great substitute for the lasagna noodles. Happy cooking!
How to Prepare Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna
Preheat and Prepare
First things first, let’s get that oven preheated to 375°F (190°C). This is where the magic begins! While that’s warming up, cook your lasagna noodles according to the package instructions. This step is super important because it sets the stage for our delicious layers. Don’t worry if they seem a bit sticky; just make sure to drain them well and lay them flat on a clean surface to cool a bit.
Sauté the Shrimp
Now, grab a skillet and melt those 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Ah, the aroma of melting butter! Once it’s nice and bubbly, toss in the minced garlic and sauté until it’s fragrant—this usually takes about a minute. You’ll want to keep an eye on it because burnt garlic is a no-go! Next, add in your shrimp and cook until they turn a lovely pink color; that typically takes just a few minutes. Once they’re perfectly cooked, remove them from the heat and set them aside. You’re doing great!
Create the Sauce
In the same skillet, we’re about to make a creamy sauce that will elevate our dish to the next level! Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley into the shrimp mixture. Oh wow, it smells heavenly! Make sure to season it with salt and pepper to taste. This is your chance to adjust flavors, so don’t be afraid to dig in and taste a little. You want the sauce to be rich and packed with flavor!
Layer the Lasagna
Okay, let’s get to the fun part—layering! Start with a noodle at the bottom, then spread a generous layer of that creamy shrimp mixture on top. Repeat this process, adding more noodles and shrimp mixture until you’ve used everything up. Finish off with a glorious layer of shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Just imagine how cheesy and gooey that will be when it bakes! It’s almost too good to be true, but trust me, it’ll be worth every layer.
Baking Instructions
Now, pop that beauty into the preheated oven and bake for about 25–30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is bubbly and golden. It’s going to smell amazing! Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before diving in. This helps everything set up nicely so you can cut perfect slices. Can you feel the excitement? You’re almost there!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the numbers! This garlic butter shrimp scampi lasagna is not just delicious; it’s also packed with some pretty good nutrition. Here’s an estimated breakdown of what you’re getting per serving:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 200mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 25g
Keep in mind that these values are just estimates based on the ingredients used, so they may vary a bit depending on your specific choices. But hey, knowing that you’re enjoying a meal with good protein and flavors makes every bite even more satisfying! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your garlic butter shrimp scampi lasagna turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my best tips that I swear by:
- Garlic Levels: If you adore garlic like I do, feel free to add an extra clove or two! But if you’re not a huge garlic fan, start with less and adjust to your taste. It’s all about making it your own!
- Fresh Herbs: Using fresh parsley is a great touch, but don’t shy away from experimenting with other herbs! Basil or even a sprinkle of thyme can elevate the flavor profile and add a delightful twist.
- Cheese Choices: While I love the classic combo of mozzarella and Parmesan, you might want to toss in some fontina or even gouda for a richer taste. Cheese is never a bad idea, right?
- Layering Tips: Make sure to really spread that shrimp mixture evenly between the noodles. You want every bite to be just as delicious as the last! And don’t be afraid to make those layers generous.
- Let it Rest: After baking, letting the lasagna cool for a few minutes is crucial. I know it’s hard to wait, but this helps it settle and makes serving so much easier. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later!
- Pair it Right: Consider serving it with a light salad or some crusty garlic bread. It balances out the richness and adds a fresh touch to your meal.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create a show-stopping dish that’ll impress everyone at the table. Happy cooking, my friend!
Variations
One of the best things about my garlic butter shrimp scampi lasagna is how versatile it is! You can easily switch things up to suit your taste or use what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas to get those creative juices flowing:
- Veggie Boost: Consider adding sautéed spinach or kale for a pop of color and nutrients. You could also toss in some roasted red peppers or zucchini for extra flavor and texture!
- Spicy Kick: If you love a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic. It’ll give the dish a delightful kick that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
- Herb Swap: While parsley is a classic, try using fresh basil, dill, or even cilantro for a different flavor profile. Each herb brings its unique charm to the dish!
- Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses! A blend of mozzarella and smoked gouda can add a fantastic depth of flavor, or try some ricotta mixed in for a creamier texture.
- Lemon Zest: For a fresh, zesty twist, add a bit of lemon zest or a splash of lemon juice to the sauce. It brightens everything up and balances the richness beautifully.
- Seafood Medley: If you’re feeling adventurous, swap out some of the shrimp for other seafood like scallops or crab meat. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on what you choose!
With these variations, you can make this dish your own every time you whip it up! Don’t hesitate to play around and discover new combinations that you and your loved ones will enjoy. Happy experimenting!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got this mouthwatering garlic butter shrimp scampi lasagna ready to go, let’s think about what to serve alongside it to make the meal even more special! Trust me, the right sides can elevate your dinner to a whole new level.
- Fresh Salad: A crisp, green salad is a perfect match! I love a simple mix of arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette. The freshness cuts through the richness of the lasagna, making every bite feel balanced.
- Garlic Bread: You can’t go wrong with some warm, buttery garlic bread! It’s the ultimate comfort food and is great for mopping up any creamy sauce left on your plate. Plus, who doesn’t love a bit of extra garlic?
- Roasted Vegetables: Consider serving some roasted seasonal veggies on the side. Asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers drizzled with olive oil and roasted until tender add a colorful and nutritious element to your meal.
- Light Soup: A bowl of minestrone or a light tomato basil soup can be a wonderful starter. It warms up the appetite and complements the lasagna beautifully without being too heavy.
- Wine Pairing: If you’re into wine, a crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio, pairs wonderfully with this dish. The acidity from the wine works well with the creamy flavors of the lasagna.
With these serving suggestions, you’ll have a complete and satisfying meal that your family and friends will absolutely love! Enjoy your culinary creation and the wonderful time spent around the table!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, let’s talk about storing those delicious leftovers! If you happen to have any garlic butter shrimp scampi lasagna left after your meal (which I doubt, but just in case!), here’s how to keep it fresh and tasty:
- Storing Leftovers: Allow the lasagna to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can slice it into portions or keep it whole—whatever works best for you! It’ll stay good in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. Just make sure to cover it well to keep it from drying out.
- Freezing Tips: If you want to save some for later, you can freeze it! Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. It’ll last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw it in the fridge overnight.
Now, onto reheating! You want to bring back that creamy, cheesy goodness without drying it out:
- Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the lasagna in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil to keep moisture in. Heat for about 20-30 minutes, or until it’s warmed through. If you want that cheesy top to get bubbly again, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes!
- Microwave Method: If you’re short on time, the microwave works too! Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel (this helps keep it moist). Heat it in 30-second intervals until it’s hot. Just be careful not to overheat, or you might end up with rubbery cheese!
With these tips, you can enjoy your garlic butter shrimp scampi lasagna again and again without losing any of that delicious flavor. Happy reheating!
Print
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna: 5 Dreamy Layers Await
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious combination of garlic butter shrimp, scampi, and lasagna.
Ingredients
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add shrimp, cooking until pink. Remove from heat.
- Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper.
- Layer lasagna: spread shrimp mixture between layers of noodles. Top with mozzarella.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is bubbly.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh shrimp for best flavor.
- Adjust garlic amount to your preference.
- Substitute gluten-free noodles if necessary.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 200mg
Keywords: garlic butter shrimp scampi lasagna