Get ready to fall in love with the Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna with Lemon and Parmesan Recipe, a sumptuous twist on two classic dishes combined into one unforgettable meal. This lasagna layers buttery, garlicky shrimp scampi with rich ricotta and gooey mozzarella, all brightened by fresh lemon zest and parmesan that add a perfect tangy finish. It’s a dish that feels fancy enough for special occasions but simple and satisfying enough to enjoy any night of the week. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a favorite go-to comfort meal that impresses both your family and guests alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in its beautifully balanced ingredients. Each one is simple but vital, contributing essential flavors, creaminess, or zest that build layers of texture and vibrancy throughout this Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna with Lemon and Parmesan Recipe.
- Large shrimp (1 lb): Peeled and deveined, they bring tender, sweet seafood flavor that’s the star of the show.
- Unsalted butter (4 tbsp): Gives the shrimp that iconic buttery scampi richness.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Adds pungent, aromatic warmth that infuses the butter and shrimp.
- Dry white wine (1/4 cup): Adds subtle acidity and depth, or chicken broth as a great substitute.
- Lemon juice (1 tbsp) and lemon zest (1 tsp plus extra for garnish): Provide refreshing citrus brightness that lifts the entire dish.
- Red pepper flakes (1/4 tsp, optional): For those who love a touch of heat to balance the creaminess.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance all flavors.
- Fresh parsley (2 tbsp, chopped plus extra for garnish): Adds a fresh herbal note and vibrant color.
- Ricotta cheese (1 1/2 cups): Gives a creamy, smooth texture that melts perfectly into the lasagna layers.
- Large egg (1): Helps bind the ricotta mixture for stability.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup plus 1/2 cup extra for layering): Adds salty, nutty complexity and forms a delicious crust.
- Ground nutmeg (1/4 tsp): A subtle spice that enhances the cheese mixture with warmth.
- Lasagna noodles (12, cooked): The hearty base that holds all the luscious layers together.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (2 cups): Melts into a bubbly, gooey topping every lasagna needs.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Poured over the top for an ultra-rich, silky finish during baking.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna with Lemon and Parmesan Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp Scampi Filling
Begin by melting the unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. As it melts, the buttery base starts the signature flavor journey of this dish. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook it just until fragrant—about 1 to 2 minutes—to avoid burning and keep that bright, fresh garlic taste.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
Next, add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Cook them for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque, signaling they are perfectly cooked and tender. Shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to prevent any rubbery texture.
Step 3: Finish the Scampi Sauce
Pour in the dry white wine (or chicken broth if preferred), then add lemon juice, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes if you want a little spicy kick. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Let this simmer for another 1 to 2 minutes so the liquid reduces slightly, concentrating all those luscious flavors. Stir in fresh parsley, then remove from heat and let the shrimp mixture cool slightly—this will make layering easier later.
Step 4: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture
While the shrimp cools, combine the ricotta cheese with the egg, grated Parmesan, ground nutmeg, salt, and pepper in a bowl. This mixture adds creamy richness and a delicate hint of nutmeg flavor that complements the lemon and garlic beautifully. Stir until smooth and well combined, then set aside.
Step 5: Assemble the Lasagna
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Start by spreading a thin layer of the shrimp scampi mixture on the bottom to infuse flavor into the noodles. Then place the first layer of cooked lasagna noodles over the shrimp.
Step 6: Build the Layers
Spread a portion of the ricotta mixture evenly over the noodles, followed by a generous layer of the shrimp scampi mixture. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the shrimp to create that irresistible cheesy melt. Repeat these layers with the remaining ingredients, finishing with a final layer of noodles and cheese on top.
Step 7: Add Cream and Bake
Pour the heavy cream evenly over the assembled lasagna, which helps create a luscious cream sauce as it bakes. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake another 10 to 15 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbling, signaling the perfect finish.
Step 8: Rest and Garnish
Once baked, let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This step allows the layers to set and makes for cleaner, prettier slices. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra lemon zest right before serving to add a fresh, colorful touch that brightens every bite.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna with Lemon and Parmesan Recipe
Garnishes
Don’t skimp on garnishes because they really elevate the dish! A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley and a little lemon zest add bursts of color and refreshing citrus aroma that contrast perfectly with the rich and creamy layers underneath. Plus, a dash of extra Parmesan on top gives that salty, nutty pop with every forkful.
Side Dishes
This shrimp scampi lasagna pairs wonderfully with simple, crisp side salads like a peppery arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or classic Caesar. Steamed green beans or roasted asparagus tossed with olive oil and lemon also bring out the seafood notes in the lasagna. Keep sides light and fresh to balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, serve this dish in individual ramekins or mini cast iron pans to impress guests with personal portions. Another fun idea is to top each slice with a lemon wedge and a sprig of parsley for a restaurant-quality presentation. You could also accompany it with a glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc to match the lemon and herb flavors beautifully.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna with Lemon and Parmesan Recipe, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors mature nicely, so it often tastes even better the next day.
Freezing
If you want to save it longer, this lasagna freezes very well. Wrap the whole dish tightly with foil and plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil until heated through. Adding a splash of cream or broth before reheating helps maintain the creamy texture without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw and pat the shrimp dry to avoid excess moisture affecting your lasagna layers.
Is there a substitute for white wine in the shrimp scampi?
Yes, chicken broth or even vegetable broth work well if you prefer to avoid alcohol. They provide the necessary liquid and mild flavor without overpowering the dish.
What if I don’t have fresh lemons?
Fresh lemon juice and zest are key to the bright flavor here, but in a pinch, a splash of bottled lemon juice and a pinch of dried lemon zest can work. Fresh is always best for that vibrant zing.
Can I prepare this lasagna ahead of time before baking?
You can fully assemble the lasagna a day ahead, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready, add the cream topping if you like and bake as directed, adding a little extra baking time if starting cold.
How spicy is this dish with the red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add only a gentle hint of heat that balances well with the creamy cheese and citrus. Feel free to omit them if you prefer no spice, or add more if you love heat.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna with Lemon and Parmesan Recipe is truly a game-changer in comfort food. It’s creamy, bright, and packed with layers of deliciousness that make you want to savor every bite. Whether for a family dinner or to impress friends, this recipe brings that special touch of indulgence with ingredients you can easily find and love. Give it a try—I promise it will become one of your all-time favorite dishes to cook and share!
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Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna with Lemon and Parmesan Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna with Lemon and Parmesan is a decadent twist on classic lasagna, featuring succulent shrimp cooked in a garlic butter sauce, layered with creamy ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, all baked to perfection with a zesty touch of lemon. Perfect for seafood lovers seeking a rich, flavorful pasta bake that combines Italian comfort with a fresh, citrusy finish.
Ingredients
Shrimp Scampi Filling
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Ricotta Mixture
- 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
Additional Ingredients
- 12 lasagna noodles, cooked according to package instructions
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp lemon zest (for garnish)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp Scampi Filling: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat to create a rich base for the sauce.
- Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, infusing the butter with flavor.
- Cook Shrimp: Stir in the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque, ensuring they are perfectly tender.
- Add Liquids and Seasoning: Pour in the white wine or chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to marry and the liquid to reduce slightly.
- Finish Shrimp Mixture: Stir in the chopped parsley, remove from heat, and set the shrimp aside to cool slightly, preparing for layering.
- Make the Ricotta Mixture: In a bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, ground nutmeg, salt, and pepper until smooth and combined. Set aside for assembly.
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get ready for baking the lasagna.
- Layer the Lasagna – Step 1: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread a thin layer of the shrimp scampi mixture at the bottom to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Layer the Lasagna – Step 2: Place a layer of cooked lasagna noodles over the shrimp mixture, forming the first pasta layer.
- Layer the Lasagna – Step 3: Spread a portion of the ricotta mixture evenly over the noodles, followed by a portion of the shrimp scampi mixture.
- Layer the Cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan over the shrimp layer for creamy, cheesy goodness.
- Repeat Layers: Continue layering noodles, ricotta mixture, shrimp scampi, and cheeses until all ingredients are used, finishing with a final layer of noodles topped with cheese.
- Add Cream: Pour the heavy cream evenly over the assembled lasagna to infuse creaminess during baking.
- Bake Covered: Cover the lasagna with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes to cook through and meld flavors.
- Finish Baking: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly, creating a perfectly browned crust.
- Rest and Serve: Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon zest for a bright, fresh finish. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious seafood lasagna!
Notes
- Use fresh shrimp for best flavor and texture.
- If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, chicken broth works well in place of white wine.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred level of heat or omit entirely.
- Allowing the lasagna to rest after baking helps it set, making slicing easier.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, though the texture will be less rich.
