🍤 Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna Recipe – A Creamy Seafood Delight
When it comes to comfort food with a gourmet twist, Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna is in a league of its own. Imagine layers of tender lasagna sheets, juicy shrimp sautéed in garlic butter, and rich melted cheese creating a creamy, indulgent bite every time. This recipe combines the elegance of shrimp scampi with the coziness of lasagna, making it a perfect choice for family dinners, date nights, or even festive gatherings. 🥂✨
In this article, we’ll cover the full recipe, expert tips from world-renowned chefs, nutritional breakdown, health benefits, and answer the most common questions about cooking shrimp-based lasagna. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this guide will walk you step by step through creating a dish that will impress everyone at your table.
🥘 Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we dive into the step-by-step method, let’s gather the ingredients:
- 9 sheets of pre-cooked lasagna
- 500 g peeled and deveined shrimp
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 100 g butter
- 200 g grated mozzarella cheese
- 100 g grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 250 ml heavy cream
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: chili flakes for a spicy kick 🌶️
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Preparation
1. Prepare the Garlic Butter Shrimp
In a skillet, melt half of the butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and onion, sautéing until fragrant. Toss in the shrimp, season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice, and cook until pink and tender (about 4–5 minutes). Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Make the Creamy Scampi Sauce
In the same pan, add remaining butter and cream. Simmer gently, stirring continuously. Add a sprinkle of parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens to a silky consistency. Garnish with fresh parsley.
3. Assemble the Lasagna Layers
In a greased baking dish, spread a thin layer of the creamy sauce at the bottom. Place a sheet of lasagna, followed by shrimp, sauce, and mozzarella. Repeat layers until the dish is full, finishing with cheese on top. 🧀
4. Bake to Perfection
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake covered with foil for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until golden and bubbly. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
👨🍳 Expert Chef Insights
- Chef Bobby Flay: “Balance is key. Don’t overpower the shrimp with too much cheese—let the seafood shine.”
- Gordon Ramsay: “Always use fresh shrimp, never frozen if you can avoid it. The texture difference is night and day.”
- Ina Garten: “Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for a deeper, more sophisticated flavor.”
- The Pioneer Woman, Ree Drummond: “This is a crowd-pleaser. Serve with garlic bread and a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.”
💡 Health Tips & Safety Considerations
- Ensure shrimp are properly deveined and cooked to avoid foodborne illnesses.
- Use reduced-fat cream or substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- For gluten-free needs, replace lasagna sheets with zucchini ribbons or gluten-free pasta.
- Add extra veggies like spinach or mushrooms for enhanced nutrition.
🥦 Nutrition & Health Benefits
Here’s a nutritional breakdown for one serving (approx. 1/6 of the dish):
| Nutrient | Per Serving | Health Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 520 kcal | Provides energy for daily activities |
| Protein | 32 g | Supports muscle repair and growth |
| Carbohydrates | 38 g | Quick energy source |
| Fats | 28 g | Essential for brain and cell health |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | 1.2 g | Promotes heart health |
| Vitamin B12 | 1.5 µg | Supports nerve function |
| Calcium | 220 mg | Strengthens bones and teeth |
📌 10 Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, but thaw completely and pat dry to prevent excess water in the sauce.
2. Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the lasagna, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
3. What wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc enhances the garlic butter sauce beautifully.
4. Can I substitute shrimp with another seafood?
Yes, scallops or crab meat are great alternatives.
5. How do I make it spicier?
Add red chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
6. Can I freeze shrimp lasagna?
Yes. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in fridge overnight before baking.
7. What’s the best side dish?
Garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables pair perfectly.
8. How do I prevent a watery lasagna?
Drain shrimp well and don’t overuse cream sauce. Bake uncovered at the end for moisture reduction.
9. Can I make it healthier?
Swap cream with Greek yogurt and use whole wheat pasta sheets.
10. How long does it last in the fridge?
Up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container.
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✨ Final Thoughts
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna is more than just a recipe—it’s a statement dish that brings together the richness of Italian cuisine and the freshness of seafood. With the right balance of garlic, butter, and cheese, this lasagna promises to be a centerpiece at any dining table. Serve it with confidence, knowing you’ve created something truly special. ❤️
