Creamy Shrimp Scampi Lasagna Recipe for Seafood Lovers

 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Shrimp Scampi Lasagna offers a luxurious blend of flavors and textures. The garlic butter shrimp pairs perfectly with the velvety béchamel sauce and creamy ricotta, all wrapped up in soft lasagna noodles. With the added kick of red pepper flakes and the freshness of lemon, this dish is not only comforting but also vibrant and flavorful. It’s a great option for seafood lovers who are looking for something a little different from the usual pasta dishes. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can even be made ahead of time!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Shrimp Filling:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup white onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

For the Béchamel Sauce:

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Pinch of nutmeg (optional)

Other Ingredients:

• 9 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

1. Prepare the Shrimp Filling:
   • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
   • Add the shrimp, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using), and cook until the shrimp are just opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side.
   • Stir in the butter, lemon juice, and zest, and cook for another minute until the butter melts. Remove from heat and chop the shrimp into bite-sized pieces.
2. Make the Béchamel Sauce:
   • In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk to form a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
   • Slowly add the milk, whisking to prevent lumps, and cook until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
   • Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Continue cooking until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
3. Assemble the Lasagna:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
   • Spread a layer of béchamel sauce on the bottom of the prepared dish. Layer the cooked lasagna noodles on top.
   • Add a layer of ricotta cheese, followed by a layer of shrimp filling, and sprinkle with mozzarella. Repeat the layers, finishing with béchamel and mozzarella on top.
4. Bake:
   • Cover the lasagna with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden.
5. Rest and Serve:
   • Let the lasagna sit for 10–15 minutes before slicing to allow the layers to set.
   • Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8 servings
• Prep time: 25 minutes
• Cook time: 45 minutes
• Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

• Add vegetables: For added texture and flavor, try adding sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to the layers.
• Use a different seafood: If you prefer, you can swap the shrimp for scallops, lobster, or a combination of seafood.
• Make it spicier: For a spicier kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a few dashes of hot sauce to the shrimp filling.
• Dairy-free version: Substitute the butter and milk with dairy-free alternatives and use vegan cheese to make this recipe dairy-free.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover lasagna can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave or cover the lasagna with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes, or until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the lasagna a day ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before baking, or you can bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

2. Can I freeze this lasagna?

Yes, this lasagna freezes well. Assemble it, but don’t bake it. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. To bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

3. How can I make sure the shrimp is perfectly cooked?

Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they’ll continue to cook in the oven. The shrimp should be just opaque when removed from the skillet.

4. Can I substitute the lasagna noodles with gluten-free noodles?

Yes, you can use gluten-free lasagna noodles as a substitute for regular noodles. Just make sure to follow the package directions for cooking.

5. Can I add more cheese to the lasagna?

Absolutely! You can add more mozzarella, Parmesan, or even a different cheese like provolone for extra flavor and gooeyness.

6. How do I make the béchamel sauce thicker?

If your béchamel sauce isn’t thick enough, continue cooking it for a few more minutes, whisking constantly, to reduce and thicken the sauce. You can also add a little more flour to the roux if necessary.

7. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp for this recipe?

While fresh shrimp is ideal, you can use pre-cooked shrimp. Just be sure to chop it into smaller pieces and add it to the filling at the end of the cooking process to avoid overcooking it.

8. Can I use other herbs in the shrimp filling?

Yes! Feel free to add fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or parsley to the shrimp filling for extra flavor.

9. Can I serve this lasagna with a side salad?

Yes, this lasagna pairs wonderfully with a crisp side salad, such as a Caesar salad or a simple mixed greens salad with lemon vinaigrette.

10. Can I make this lasagna spicier?

If you enjoy spicy food, feel free to add more red pepper flakes or include a dash of hot sauce in the shrimp mixture for an extra kick.

Conclusion

This Creamy Shrimp Scampi Lasagna is the ultimate seafood comfort food, bringing together all the rich flavors of shrimp scampi in a delicious, layered pasta dish. It’s a unique twist on the traditional lasagna that’s sure to become a crowd favorite, whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner. With its creamy béchamel sauce, garlic butter shrimp, and zesty lemon, this dish is a showstopper that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

---

Print