A Coastal Comfort – The Story Behind Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna
If you’ve ever wished you could combine the richness of lasagna with the irresistible flavor of garlic butter shrimp, this recipe is your dream come true. Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna is everything you love about Italian comfort food—layered noodles, creamy sauce, and melted cheese—with a touch of coastal flair. The result is an elegant yet hearty dish that feels both special and satisfying.
I first made this for a family dinner when I wanted something indulgent but a little different from the usual red-sauce lasagna. The moment it came out of the oven, bubbling and golden, the aroma of garlic and butter filled the kitchen. It’s one of those dishes that makes you stop and savor every bite.
What You’ll Need to Make This Seafood Lasagna Delight
This recipe blends classic lasagna elements with the bold, buttery flavor of shrimp scampi. Fresh shrimp and quality cheese really make a difference here, so try not to skimp.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb medium shrimp (peeled, deveined)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk (warmed)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 9 lasagna noodles (cooked al dente)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley (for garnish)
Preparing the Shrimp Scampi Base
Start by heating olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and a pinch of red pepper flakes, letting them sizzle just long enough to release their aroma—about a minute. Be careful not to brown the garlic; it should smell fragrant, not bitter.
Next, toss in the shrimp, salt, and pepper. Sauté for about 3–4 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Stir in lemon juice and parsley at the end for a burst of freshness. Once cooked, set the shrimp aside while you make the creamy sauce.
Crafting the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to create a smooth paste, cooking for 1–2 minutes to eliminate any raw flour taste. Gradually pour in the warm milk while whisking constantly. The sauce will begin to thicken after a few minutes.
Add grated Parmesan, salt, and a touch of nutmeg if you like a hint of warmth. Stir until the sauce turns velvety and smooth. I always taste it at this stage—it should be rich, savory, and slightly nutty from the cheese.
Layering the Lasagna for Maximum Flavor
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread a thin layer of the cheese sauce on the bottom to prevent sticking.
Place three lasagna noodles over the sauce, then add a third of the shrimp mixture. Spoon small dollops of ricotta over the shrimp, drizzle on more sauce, and sprinkle with mozzarella. Repeat this process for two more layers, finishing with sauce and mozzarella on top.
I like to press the layers down gently with the back of a spoon to keep everything compact and evenly distributed.
Baking to Golden Perfection
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes until the top is bubbling and lightly golden. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges start to crisp slightly and the center looks irresistibly creamy.
Once baked, resist the urge to cut into it right away. Let the lasagna rest for about 10 minutes to set—the layers will hold together beautifully when sliced. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Tips for the Best Shrimp Scampi Lasagna
- Use fresh shrimp if possible. Frozen shrimp work too, but thaw and pat them dry first.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp—they’ll continue cooking slightly in the oven.
- Warm your milk before adding it to the roux to prevent lumps in the sauce.
- Add a squeeze of lemon just before serving to brighten the rich flavors.
Serving and Storing Your Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna
This lasagna is best served warm, paired with a crisp green salad or some roasted vegetables. Garlic bread on the side is optional but highly recommended.
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal. You can also freeze it—just wrap tightly and reheat later for a make-ahead dinner that feels gourmet.
Creative Ways to Serve This Dish
For a lighter twist, serve smaller portions with a lemon-dressed arugula salad. You can also turn this into a “deconstructed” version by layering it in small ramekins for individual servings—perfect for dinner parties.
If you love spice, sprinkle a pinch of chili flakes or drizzle a bit of garlic chili oil on top before serving. It adds a lovely kick to balance the creamy sauce.
Variations to Try – From Spinach Layers to Crab and Lobster Mixes
Once you master this version, you can have fun experimenting. Try adding a layer of sautéed spinach or roasted cherry tomatoes for color and freshness.
For an extra indulgent take, mix shrimp with chunks of crab or lobster. You can also swap the mozzarella for provolone or fontina for a deeper, more complex cheese flavor.
Nutrition Snapshot – Creamy Indulgence with a Seafood Boost
While this dish is undeniably rich, it also offers plenty of protein from the shrimp and calcium from the cheese. A moderate portion goes a long way toward satisfying your cravings without feeling too heavy. Pair it with a light side salad and you’ve got a balanced, feel-good meal.
Sweet Questions Answered – Your Shrimp Scampi Lasagna FAQ Corner
Can I use precooked shrimp?
Yes, but add them at the very end of the sauce stage to avoid overcooking.
Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble it a day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
What type of noodles works best?
Traditional boiled noodles give the best texture, but oven-ready noodles will work too—just add a bit more sauce.
Can I substitute another seafood?
Yes, scallops or chunks of firm white fish like cod or halibut are great alternatives.
How do I make it lighter?
Use part-skim ricotta, low-fat milk, and less cheese. The flavor remains deliciously creamy with fewer calories.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna is one of those dishes that feels like a celebration every time you make it—creamy, garlicky, and full of comfort. Once you try it, it might just become your new favorite seafood lasagna.
