I’ve got a real treat for you today! Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna is a culinary dream come true. Picture this: layers of creamy, cheesy goodness intertwined with succulent shrimp drenched in a heavenly garlic butter sauce. I stumbled upon this recipe one rainy afternoon when I was desperately trying to elevate my usual lasagna game. Let me tell you, it blew my mind and has been a go-to dish ever since.
Every bite feels like a unique surprise, and I find myself making this for gatherings and cozy nights alike. It always impresses guests, and everyone asks for the recipe. Not to mention, I’ve had some memorable dinners around this dish that have ended with happy bellies and full hearts. It’s that kind of food you want to savor and share!
What’s in Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna?
Let’s break down the deliciousness of this dish. Each ingredient plays a unique role in making this lasagna a standout meal.
Lasagna Noodles: These layers are the backbone of the dish. I prefer using oven-ready ones because it saves time. No boiling required!
Shrimp: The star of the show! I like to use medium to large shrimp, peeled and deveined. Fresh shrimp is ideal, but frozen works just fine when fresh isn’t available.
Butter: This will be the gateway to flavor town! I prefer unsalted butter so I can control the saltiness in the dish.
Garlic: The more, the merrier! Fresh minced garlic gives a beautiful flavor. I love using extra because who doesn’t adore the aroma of garlic wafting through the kitchen?
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a hint of color and a refreshing taste. Dried parsley can also work in a pinch.
Parmesan Cheese: This will add a lovely nuttiness and creaminess to the layers. Go for freshly grated if you can; it makes a difference!
Ricotta Cheese: Creamy and dreamy, this cheese creates a delightful filling. I usually opt for the whole milk version to get that rich, luscious texture.
Mozerella Cheese: This is a melty necessity. I love to add a generous amount on top for that golden, bubbly finish.
Is Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna Good for You?
Now, let’s chat about whether this dish is a healthy option. While it’s rich in flavor and comfort, it’s also quite decadent.
Shrimp: High in protein and low in calories. They are a fantastic source of selenium and vitamin B12, contributing to a well-rounded diet.
Butter: While it adds incredible flavor, it’s also high in saturated fat. Moderation is key here, so using it wisely will keep the dish indulgent, but not overboard.
Cheese: It provides calcium and protein, but can also be high in calories and sodium. Using lower-fat options might be a good compromise.
Overall, this lasagna isn’t a daily meal but rather a special treat for occasions!
Ingredients List
– Lasagna noodles (12-15 sheets, depending on your dish size)
– Medium or large shrimp (1 pound, peeled and deveined)
– Unsalted butter (1/2 cup)
– Fresh garlic (4-6 cloves, minced)
– Fresh parsley (1/4 cup, chopped)
– Parmesan cheese (1 cup, freshly grated)
– Ricotta cheese (15 oz)
– Mozzarella cheese (2 cups, shredded)
– Salt and pepper (to taste)
This recipe generally serves about 6-8 people, perfect for a family gathering!
How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna?
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until the shrimp are pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in chopped parsley.
4. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well.
5. In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of the shrimp mixture on the bottom. Follow it with layers of lasagna noodles, ricotta mixture, and then more shrimp.
6. Repeat the layers until you run out of ingredients, finishing with noodles on top. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and parmesan on the final layer.
7. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
8. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving!
Delicious Tips for the Perfect Lasagna
– Feel free to switch up the seafood! Scallops or crab can make delightful variations.
– Want to add some spice? Red pepper flakes can add a nice kick to the garlic butter!
– This dish can be prepped ahead of time. Assemble, refrigerate, and simply bake when you’re ready to eat.
I hope you’re as excited about trying this Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna as I am! Trust me, this dish brings a cozy vibe that’s perfect for any occasion. When you do make it, drop a comment or send me a message to tell me how it turned out! Happy cooking!
