Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna

Introduction:

This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna is a luxurious twist on traditional lasagna, featuring succulent shrimp in a garlic butter sauce layered between creamy white sauce, ricotta, and mozzarella. Perfect for a special dinner or a cozy meal, this dish combines rich flavors with a satisfying texture.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp Scampi:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the White Sauce:

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 4 cups milk
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Assembly:

• 12 lasagna noodles, cooked
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare Shrimp Scampi:
   • In a large skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
   • Add the shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
   • Stir in chicken broth, lemon juice, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute, then remove from heat and set aside.
3. Make the White Sauce:
   • In a separate pan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for about 1 minute.
   • Gradually whisk in milk and simmer until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
   • Stir in Parmesan cheese, ground nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and set aside.
4. Prepare Ricotta Mixture:
   • In a bowl, mix the ricotta cheese with the egg until smooth.
5. Assemble Lasagna:
   • Spread a thin layer of white sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
   • Layer 4 cooked lasagna noodles over the sauce.
   • Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles.
   • Add half of the shrimp scampi over the ricotta.
   • Repeat the layers: white sauce, noodles, ricotta mixture, and shrimp scampi.
   • Finish with a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
6. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the lasagna is golden and bubbly.
7. Serve:
   • Let the lasagna cool slightly before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or vegetables.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the shrimp scampi for a bit of heat.
• Different Cheeses: Use different cheese combinations, like fontina or asiago, for unique flavors.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
• Freezing: To freeze, assemble the lasagna but do not bake. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp? Yes, but be sure to adjust the cooking time to avoid overcooking.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the lasagna and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking.
3. Can I use homemade lasagna noodles? Absolutely, homemade noodles work great in this recipe.
4. What can I use instead of chicken broth? You can use vegetable broth or white wine as a substitute.
5. How can I make the lasagna spicier? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the shrimp scampi.
6. Can I use a different cheese in the white sauce? Yes, try using Gruyère or cheddar for a different flavor.
7. How do I know when the lasagna is done? The lasagna is done when the top is golden brown and bubbly, and the edges are set.
8. Can I freeze the lasagna after baking? Yes, you can freeze baked lasagna. Allow it to cool completely before freezing.
9. How do I prevent the lasagna from being watery? Ensure that you cook the noodles until al dente and drain them well. Also, avoid using excess liquid in the shrimp scampi.
10. Can I add vegetables to this recipe? Yes, you can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna is a decadent and delicious twist on a classic dish, combining creamy white sauce, flavorful shrimp, and gooey cheese into every bite. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a comforting meal. Enjoy the rich flavors and satisfying textures with your family and friends!

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