If you are craving a dish that combines the luxurious flavors of seafood with the comforting embrace of Italian tradition, then you will fall in love with the Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna with Lemon and Parmesan Recipe. This stunning lasagna layers tender, garlicky shrimp cooked in buttery white wine sauce with smooth ricotta and mozzarella cheeses, all brightened by fresh lemon zest and parsley. It’s a perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and savory notes that will wow your taste buds and make any meal feel like a special occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients ensures every bite of the Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna with Lemon and Parmesan Recipe bursts with vibrant color, fresh aroma, and rich texture. Each item plays a vital role in creating layers of flavor and that irresistible creamy sauce.
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star of the dish, providing tender and flavorful protein.
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter: Infuses richness and helps cook the garlic and shrimp beautifully.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a pungent, aromatic punch that defines classic scampi flavor.
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth): Creates a subtle acidity and depth in the sauce.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice: Brightens the dish with zesty freshness.
- 1 tsp lemon zest: Sharp citrus notes that elevate the overall taste.
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a hint of heat for those who love a little spice.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances every flavor layer throughout the recipe.
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped: Brings a pop of green and a subtle herbal character.
- 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese: Smooth, creamy texture that binds the layers.
- 1 large egg: Helps set the ricotta mixture for perfect slicing.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds nutty, savory depth.
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg: A warm spice that gently rounds out the cheese filling.
- 12 lasagna noodles, cooked according to package instructions: The foundation that holds all the layers together.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully to create a gooey, dreamy top layer.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled throughout for bursts of intense flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Poured over to add richness and ensure a luscious, creamy finish.
- 1 tbsp lemon zest (for garnish): Finishing touch that brightens the presentation and flavor.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds freshness and visual appeal to each serving.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna with Lemon and Parmesan Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp Scampi Filling
Start by melting the butter in a large skillet over medium heat, allowing it to melt into a rich, golden base for the shrimp. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1–2 minutes until fragrant, which fills the kitchen with an irresistible aroma that’s just the beginning of the goodness to come.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
Next, stir in the peeled and deveined shrimp. Cook them for 2–3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque—this signals they are perfectly cooked and ready to soak up the flavors of the wine and lemon.
Step 3: Add Wine, Lemon, and Seasonings
Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth), lemon juice, lemon zest, red pepper flakes if using, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the liquid cook down for another 1–2 minutes, reducing slightly and intensifying the flavors, before stirring in fresh chopped parsley and removing the pan from heat.
Step 4: Make the Ricotta Mixture
While the shrimp cools slightly, blend together the ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a bowl until smooth and creamy. This mixture will add immense creaminess and balance the zesty shrimp layers beautifully.
Step 5: Assemble the Lasagna
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread a thin layer of the shrimp scampi filling on the bottom, then layer cooked lasagna noodles on top. Dollop and spread some of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by more shrimp scampi. Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Step 6: Repeat Layers and Top with Cream
Continue layering noodles, ricotta, shrimp, and cheese until all ingredients are used, finishing with a final noodle layer topped generously with mozzarella and Parmesan. Pour the heavy cream evenly over the top to ensure a beautifully creamy texture during baking.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until the top is golden, bubbly, and perfectly melted. Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow the layers to set nicely.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna with Lemon and Parmesan Recipe
Garnishes
For that beautiful final touch, sprinkle fresh parsley and lemon zest on top just before serving. These garnishes add a vibrant splash of color and a burst of fresh citrus aroma that complements the creamy richness perfectly.
Side Dishes
Keep the sides light and fresh to balance the indulgence of the lasagna. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or roasted asparagus with lemon and olive oil pairs wonderfully. Garlic bread is a classic companion that’s always a crowd-pleaser, perfect to scoop up any remaining sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this lasagna family-style straight from the baking dish for a cozy feel, or slice individual portions onto warm plates, garnishing each with a small sprig of parsley and a lemon wedge. For parties, cut into squares and place on small serving plates with extra Parmesan for a delightful appetizer twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna with Lemon and Parmesan tightly in plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days without losing its creamy texture or flavor.
Freezing
This lasagna freezes well, making it a convenient meal prep option. Freeze in portions or as a whole dish wrapped in foil and plastic wrap. When properly sealed, it can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to prevent drying out, for about 20–25 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions covered loosely with a microwave-safe lid in 1–2 minute intervals until hot.
FAQs
Can I use other types of seafood instead of shrimp?
Absolutely! While shrimp is traditional and delicious in this Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna with Lemon and Parmesan Recipe, you can substitute scallops, crab meat, or even cooked lobster for a different seafood flair.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap out regular lasagna noodles for gluten-free noodles that suit your dietary needs. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free, and you will still enjoy that luscious, comforting dish.
Can I prepare the lasagna ahead of time before baking?
Definitely! You can assemble the entire lasagna a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready, just bake it according to the recipe instructions, adding a few extra minutes if chilled.
What wine pairs well with this creamy shrimp lasagna?
A crisp, acidic white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the lemony shrimp scampi flavors without overpowering the dish’s rich creaminess.
Is the red pepper flakes ingredient necessary?
Not at all! The red pepper flakes are optional and simply add a subtle heat. Feel free to omit them or adjust according to your spice preference without affecting the overall deliciousness.
Final Thoughts
Once you try the Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna with Lemon and Parmesan Recipe, it is hard to go back to ordinary lasagna. The way the garlicky shrimp mingles with creamy ricotta and tangy lemon makes every bite an absolute delight. Perfect for feeding a crowd or treating yourself to a restaurant-quality meal at home, it’s a recipe worth making again and again.
Print
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
Description
This Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna with Lemon and Parmesan is a decadent seafood twist on classic Italian lasagna. Featuring layers of tender shrimp cooked in garlic butter and white wine sauce, creamy ricotta cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan, all nestled between tender lasagna noodles and finished with a luscious heavy cream bake. Bright lemon zest and fresh parsley add a fresh finishing touch. Perfect for a special dinner that’s rich, flavorful, and indulgent.
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
Lasagna Components
- 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.
- Cook Garlic: Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, ensuring it doesn’t brown to maintain a delicate flavor.
- Cook Shrimp: Stir in the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque, indicating they are perfectly cooked.
- Add Flavorings: Add the white wine (or chicken broth), lemon juice, lemon zest, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the liquid reduces slightly and intensifies in flavor.
- Finish Shrimp Mixture: Stir in the chopped parsley and remove from heat. Set the shrimp mixture aside to cool slightly before assembling.
- Prepare Ricotta Mixture: In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, grated Parmesan cheese, ground nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined to create a creamy layering component.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it is ready for baking the lasagna layers.
- First Layer: In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the shrimp scampi mixture evenly at the bottom to prevent sticking and add flavor from below.
- Add Noodles: Place a layer of cooked lasagna noodles over the shrimp mixture, covering the base completely.
- Layer Ricotta: Spread a portion of the ricotta mixture evenly over the noodles to add creamy richness.
- Add Shrimp Layer & Cheese: Add a portion of the shrimp scampi mixture over the ricotta, followed by sprinkling shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly on top to create layers of cheesy goodness.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat the layering process (noodles, ricotta mixture, shrimp mixture, cheeses) until all ingredients are used, finishing with a final layer of noodles topped with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Add Cream: Pour the heavy cream evenly over the assembled lasagna to add extra creaminess and help meld the layers during baking.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake the lasagna for 30 minutes to heat through and allow flavors to meld.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly, creating a delicious 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 a luxurious seafood Italian feast!
Notes
- Use fresh shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
- White wine can be substituted with chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version.
- Adjust red pepper flakes based on your preferred level of heat or omit entirely.
- Cook lasagna noodles al dente to avoid mushy texture after baking.
- Allow lasagna to rest after baking to help it set and make slicing easier.
