There’s something truly magical about combining two of my favorite dishes into one incredible meal. When I first thought about making a Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna, I wasn’t sure how it would turn out. But the moment I tasted that first forkful, I knew I had discovered something special. The rich, garlicky butter sauce coating tender shrimp, layered with creamy cheese and delicate lasagna noodles—it’s pure comfort food with a coastal twist.
When you crave something a little different from the usual beef or chicken lasagna, this seafood version is the perfect answer. The bold flavors of garlic and butter elevate the shrimp beautifully, while the cheesy layers bring everything together into a luxurious, satisfying dish. It’s elegant enough for a dinner party but easy enough to make on a cozy night at home.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna brings a mouthwatering blend of textures and tastes. Each bite offers the silky feel of melted cheese, the soft tenderness of shrimp, and the hearty satisfaction of pasta, all tied together with the rich, savory notes of garlic butter. A sprinkle of fresh herbs brightens the whole dish, making it as beautiful to look at as it is delicious to eat.
This recipe doesn’t just feed the body; it feeds the soul. Whether you’re planning a special meal for loved ones or simply want to treat yourself, Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna is a wonderful choice. Plus, it’s much easier to prepare than you might think, using simple ingredients and straightforward steps. Once you try it, it might just become your new favorite way to enjoy lasagna—with a fresh, flavorful twist that’s bound to impress
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna
To create this rich and savory dish, you will need a few key ingredients that come together beautifully.
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Shrimp – Use medium to large shrimp, peeled and deveined. Fresh or thawed frozen shrimp work perfectly.
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Butter – Unsalted butter is ideal to control the seasoning while providing a rich, creamy base for the sauce.
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Garlic – Fresh garlic cloves, minced, bring out the authentic scampi flavor.
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Lasagna Noodles – Traditional or oven-ready lasagna noodles create the perfect layers for this dish.
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Mozzarella Cheese – Shredded mozzarella melts beautifully and adds that classic, gooey texture.
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Parmesan Cheese – Freshly grated Parmesan gives a sharp, salty edge to balance the richness.
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Ricotta Cheese – Creamy ricotta forms a luscious layer between the noodles and shrimp.
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Lemon Juice – Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds a bright, zesty note that lifts the entire flavor profile.
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Parsley – Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
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Olive Oil – A touch of olive oil helps sauté the shrimp and garlic to perfection.
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Seasonings – Salt, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes to enhance the flavors.
How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna
Making Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna is easier than it sounds. Follow these simple steps to create a dish that’s both comforting and impressive.
Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or butter to prevent sticking.
Step 2:
Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and lay them flat on a clean kitchen towel to prevent sticking.
Step 3:
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant.
Step 4:
Add the shrimp to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and are just cooked through. Season with salt, pepper, and a splash of lemon juice. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 5:
In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with half of the Parmesan cheese and a handful of chopped parsley. Mix well to form the creamy cheese layer.
Step 6:
Spread a thin layer of the ricotta mixture on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Place a layer of cooked lasagna noodles over it.
Step 7:
Top the noodles with some of the cooked shrimp and a drizzle of the garlic butter sauce from the pan. Sprinkle a handful of mozzarella over the shrimp.
Step 8:
Repeat the layering process: ricotta mixture, noodles, shrimp with garlic butter, and mozzarella, until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of mozzarella and the remaining Parmesan on top.
Step 9:
Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Step 10:
Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra squeeze of lemon juice if desired. Serve warm and enjoy the comforting flavors!
How Long to Bake Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna
The baking time for Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna ensures the layers meld together perfectly, creating a flavorful and cohesive dish. Here’s what you need to know:
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Covered Baking – Initially, bake the lasagna covered with foil for about 25 minutes at 375°F (190°C). This keeps the moisture in, allowing the cheeses to melt without over-browning.
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Uncovered Baking – After 25 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 to 15 minutes. This step allows the top layer to develop a beautiful golden-brown crust and a slightly crispy texture.
Watch carefully during the final minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is bubbly, lightly browned, and irresistible.
How to Store Leftovers
Leftovers are one of the best parts of this lasagna. It stores well and reheats beautifully, making it perfect for another delicious meal.
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Refrigerator – Transfer the lasagna to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the microwave or in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through.
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Freezer – For longer storage, cut the cooled lasagna into individual portions. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake in the oven until warmed thoroughly.
Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna
A few tips can make all the difference in achieving the ultimate lasagna experience:
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Do Not Overcook the Shrimp – Shrimp cook quickly. Remove them from the heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque to prevent rubbery texture after baking.
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Use Fresh Garlic – Freshly minced garlic offers a much stronger and more aromatic flavor than jarred garlic, enhancing the richness of the dish.
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Balance the Cheese – Even though it’s tempting to pile on lots of cheese, keeping the cheese balanced ensures the delicate flavor of the shrimp and garlic butter stands out.
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Let It Rest – Allowing the lasagna to rest for at least 10 minutes after baking helps it set up, making slicing easier and helping flavors to meld together.
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Brighten with Lemon – A quick squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving brings a refreshing brightness that complements the buttery richness.
This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna isn’t just about comfort; it’s about delivering elegant, restaurant-quality flavors right at home. By following these simple tips, you can ensure every layer turns out perfect, every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pre-cooked shrimp for this lasagna?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked shrimp if that’s what you have on hand. However, it’s best to add them towards the end of the garlic butter sauce preparation to avoid overcooking. Pre-cooked shrimp only need a minute or two to warm through, ensuring they stay tender and juicy.
Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the lasagna a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator, tightly covered. When you’re ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes while the oven preheats. Then, bake according to the instructions. This method makes it a perfect choice for entertaining or busy weeknights.
What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
If you don’t have ricotta cheese, you can easily substitute it with cottage cheese or a mixture of cream cheese and a little sour cream. These alternatives maintain the creamy texture while offering slightly different flavor profiles. Just ensure the substitutes are well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the lasagna.
How do I prevent watery lasagna?
To prevent watery lasagna, make sure to drain the cooked lasagna noodles thoroughly and pat them dry if needed. Also, avoid using shrimp that releases a lot of liquid. Sauté the shrimp quickly and use a slotted spoon to transfer them into the lasagna layers. These simple steps help maintain a thick, rich texture without excess moisture ruining the final result.
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Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna is a luxurious twist on a classic comfort food. Juicy shrimp are cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce, layered between tender lasagna noodles with creamy ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Baked until bubbling and golden, this dish is perfect for a special occasion or whenever you want to impress your guests with something truly unforgettable.
Ingredients
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1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
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9 lasagna noodles
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4 tbsp unsalted butter
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1/2 cup chicken broth
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1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
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1 cup ricotta cheese
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2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
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1/2 tsp salt
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1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
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In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
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Add shrimp, salt, and pepper. Cook until shrimp turn pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove shrimp and set aside.
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In the same skillet, pour chicken broth and lemon juice. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly. Remove from heat.
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Spread a thin layer of the sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Layer 3 noodles, half the ricotta, half the shrimp, some mozzarella, and Parmesan. Repeat layers and finish with noodles, sauce, and remaining cheese.
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Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Uncover and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
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Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving
Notes
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Be sure not to overcook the shrimp; they will continue cooking during baking.
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Cottage cheese can replace ricotta if preferred.
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To add extra flavor, sprinkle a few crushed red pepper flakes into the garlic butter sauce.
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Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes