Oh, let me tell you about one of my absolute favorite comfort foods—Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna! This dish is a delightful blend of rich, buttery flavors enveloping the delightful taste of shrimp, all layered with creamy cheese and pasta. Honestly, it’s a dish that makes my heart sing!
I first discovered this beautiful creation at a cozy restaurant by the beach, where it was a special. The moment I took my first bite, it was like a flavor explosion in my mouth! I couldn’t wait to recreate it at home. Now, it has become my go-to for special occasions and family dinners. The best part? It’s surprisingly simple to whip up, and it’s always a showstopper. Get ready, because you’re going to want to dive into this scrumptious recipe!
What’s in Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna?
Shrimp: The star of the show! I love using fresh shrimp when possible, but if frozen is what you have, just make sure they’re defrosted and patted dry. They add a sweet, briny flavor that pairs perfectly with the garlic and butter.
Garlic: I’m a self-proclaimed garlic lover, and this recipe certainly doesn’t shy away from it! Fresh minced garlic is the way to go, as it packs a punch and fills your kitchen with the most amazing aroma.
Butter: Who doesn’t love butter, right? This helps create that luscious, velvety sauce that clings to the fresh layers of pasta. I usually opt for unsalted butter since we’ll be adding Parmesan cheese later.
Pasta Sheets: You can go with traditional lasagna noodles or the no-boil variety. I personally find that the no-boil sheets soak up the delicious sauce beautifully and make preparation so much quicker.
Heavy Cream: This is what takes the lasagna to creamy perfection. Just a little goes a long way in making the sauce rich and satisfying.
Parmesan Cheese: A generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan on each layer adds that irresistible cheesy goodness. It melts beautifully, creating a golden, bubbly topping.
Mozzarella Cheese: You can never have too much cheese, in my opinion! Fresh mozzarella works wonders for that gooey, stretchy texture that everyone loves.
Is Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna Good for You?
This dish is undeniably indulgent, but it also has its perks!
Shrimp: These little guys are low in calories and high in protein, making them a healthier addition to your meal. Plus, they’re rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for heart health.
Garlic: Not only does garlic add flavor, but it’s also known for its immune-boosting properties. Garlic may help reduce inflammation and even lower blood pressure!
Butter: Well, let’s be real—it’s butter! While it’s delicious and provides flavor, moderation is key. Opt for a bit of butter to create that luscious sauce without going overboard.
Overall, while this lasagna is packed with delicious ingredients, it’s best enjoyed in moderation as part of a well-rounded diet.
Ingredients
– 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined (fresh or frozen)
– 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
– 4-5 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of heavy cream
– 9-12 no-boil lasagna sheets or traditional lasagna noodles (cooked according to package instructions)
– 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
This recipe serves about 6 generous portions.
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. Once melted, add in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but be careful not to burn it!
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Cook the shrimp for about 3-4 minutes until they are pink and opaque. Remove from heat and stir in the heavy cream.
4. In a baking dish, start layering! First, spread a ladle of the shrimp mixture at the bottom. Then, place a layer of lasagna sheets over it, followed by a sprinkle of Parmesan and mozzarella cheese.
5. Repeat the layering process until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
6. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbling and slightly golden.
7. Let it rest for about 10 minutes before digging in. Garnish with fresh parsley, and voila!
Tips to Make It Perfect!
– If you want a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a spicy kick!
– Feel free to mix in some sautéed spinach or kale between the layers for an extra nutrient boost.
– Don’t skip letting the lasagna rest after it comes out of the oven. It helps the layers set and makes serving much easier. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
I can’t encourage you enough to try making this Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna! Bring it to your next gathering, or just treat yourself on a cozy night in. I promise you won’t regret it! And if you do make it, I’d love to hear what you think—feel free to share your experience!
