Name: Garlic Butter Shrimp Lasagna: A Delicious Seafood Twist on a Classic
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound lasagna noodles; 1/2 cup butter; 6 cloves garlic, minced; 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; 1 (15 ounce) container ricotta cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 (24 ounce) jar marinara sauce

Garlic Butter Shrimp Lasagna: Prepare to be amazed! Imagine the creamy, cheesy comfort of lasagna, but elevated with succulent shrimp bathed in a rich, garlicky butter sauce. This isn't your Nonna's lasagna, but trust me, she'd approve! This unique twist on a classic Italian dish is about to become your new favorite weeknight indulgence.

While the exact origins of Garlic Butter Shrimp Lasagna are a modern culinary invention, it cleverly blends the time-honored tradition of lasagna-making with the universally loved flavors of garlic butter shrimp. Lasagna itself boasts a rich history, dating back to ancient Rome, evolving over centuries into the layered pasta masterpiece we know and love today. This recipe takes that foundation and infuses it with the coastal flair of seafood, creating a delightful fusion of land and sea.

What makes this dish so irresistible? It's the perfect harmony of textures and tastes. The tender shrimp, infused with garlicky goodness, nestle between layers of creamy ricotta, melted mozzarella, and perfectly cooked lasagna noodles. The buttery sauce adds a luxurious richness that elevates the entire experience. Plus, it's surprisingly easy to assemble, making it a fantastic option for both casual family dinners and impressive gatherings. Get ready to experience lasagna like never before!

Ingredients:

For the Garlic Butter Shrimp:

1.5 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined
6 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
1/4 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For the Bechamel Sauce:

6 tablespoons unsalted butter
6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
4 cups whole milk, warmed
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon white pepper
Salt to taste

For the Ricotta Cheese Mixture:

15 oz ricotta cheese (full-fat)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
1 large egg, lightly beaten
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Other Ingredients:

9 lasagna noodles, oven-ready (no-boil)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)

Preparing the Garlic Butter Shrimp

Alright, let's get started with the star of our lasagna – the garlic butter shrimp! This part is super flavorful and really sets this dish apart. Trust me, you'll want to sneak a few shrimp while you're at it!

Prepare the Shrimp: Make sure your shrimp are peeled and deveined. Pat them dry with paper towels. This helps them get a nice sear and prevents them from steaming in the pan.
Melt the Butter: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Be careful not to burn it! We want it nice and golden.
Sauté the Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Keep a close eye on it – garlic burns easily and can become bitter.
Add the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. If you have too many shrimp to fit comfortably, work in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Overcrowding will lower the temperature and steam the shrimp instead of searing them.
Cook the Shrimp: Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Don't overcook them, or they'll become rubbery.
Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the white wine and let it simmer for about 1 minute, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This adds a ton of flavor!
Add the Finishing Touches: Stir in the chopped parsley, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Remove from Heat: Remove the skillet from the heat and set aside. We'll be layering this deliciousness into our lasagna soon!

Making the Bechamel Sauce

Next up, we're tackling the bechamel sauce. This creamy white sauce is essential for a good lasagna. Don't be intimidated – it's easier than you think! The key is to whisk constantly to avoid lumps.

Melt the Butter: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
Make the Roux: Add the flour to the melted butter and whisk constantly for about 1-2 minutes, creating a roux. The roux should be smooth and pale golden in color. This step is crucial for thickening the sauce.
Whisk in the Milk: Gradually whisk in the warm milk, about 1/2 cup at a time, making sure each addition is fully incorporated before adding more. This prevents lumps from forming. Keep whisking constantly!
Simmer and Thicken: Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and continue to simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to a nappe consistency (meaning it coats the back of a spoon).
Season the Sauce: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the nutmeg, white pepper, and salt to taste.
Strain (Optional): For an extra smooth sauce, you can strain it through a fine-mesh sieve. This will remove any small lumps that may have formed.

Preparing the Ricotta Cheese Mixture

Now, let's get the ricotta cheese mixture ready. This adds a lovely creamy texture and flavor to our lasagna. It's a simple step, but it makes a big difference!

Combine the Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, basil, and egg.
Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Mix Well: Mix all the ingredients together until well combined. Set aside.

Assembling the Lasagna

Okay, the moment we've been waiting for – assembling the lasagna! This is where all our hard work comes together. Get ready to create a masterpiece!

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
Layer 1: Bechamel Sauce: Spread a thin layer of bechamel sauce on the bottom of the baking dish. This prevents the noodles from sticking and adds moisture.
Layer 2: Noodles: Arrange three lasagna noodles over the bechamel sauce, slightly overlapping if necessary.
Layer 3: Ricotta Mixture: Spread half of the ricotta cheese mixture evenly over the noodles.
Layer 4: Shrimp: Spread half of the garlic butter shrimp over the ricotta cheese mixture, distributing the shrimp and the sauce.
Layer 5: Mozzarella Cheese: Sprinkle one cup of mozzarella cheese over the shrimp.
Layer 6: Bechamel Sauce: Drizzle about one-third of the remaining bechamel sauce over the mozzarella cheese.
Layer 7: Noodles: Arrange three more lasagna noodles over the bechamel sauce.
Layer 8: Ricotta Mixture: Spread the remaining ricotta cheese mixture evenly over the noodles.
Layer 9: Shrimp: Spread the remaining garlic butter shrimp over the ricotta cheese mixture, distributing the shrimp and the sauce.
Layer 10: Mozzarella Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining one cup of mozzarella cheese over the shrimp.
Layer 11: Noodles: Arrange the final three lasagna noodles over the mozzarella cheese.
Layer 12: Bechamel Sauce: Spread the remaining bechamel sauce evenly over the noodles.
Layer 13: Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese over the top.

Baking the Lasagna

Almost there! Now it's time to bake our lasagna to golden, bubbly perfection. The aroma that will fill your kitchen is simply divine!

Cover with Foil: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This prevents the top from browning too quickly and ensures the lasagna cooks evenly.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
Remove Foil: Remove the foil and continue to bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Rest: Let the lasagna rest for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the layers to set and makes it easier to cut.

And there you have it – a delicious Garlic Butter Shrimp Lasagna! I hope you enjoy making and eating this as much as I do. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Conclusion:

This Garlic Butter Shrimp Lasagna isn't just another pasta dish; it's a flavor explosion waiting to happen! I truly believe this recipe is a must-try because it elevates the classic lasagna with the irresistible combination of succulent shrimp and rich, garlicky butter sauce. The creamy layers of ricotta and mozzarella perfectly complement the seafood, creating a symphony of textures and tastes that will leave you wanting more. It's surprisingly easy to put together, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels special or a weekend gathering where you want to impress your guests. Why is this Garlic Butter Shrimp Lasagna so special? It's the perfect balance of comfort food and sophisticated flavors. The garlic butter sauce, infused with herbs and spices, coats every layer, ensuring each bite is bursting with deliciousness. The shrimp adds a touch of elegance and a delightful seafood twist to the traditional lasagna. And let's be honest, who can resist the allure of melted cheese bubbling on top? Serving suggestions are endless! I love serving this lasagna with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. A crusty baguette is also a must for soaking up all that glorious garlic butter sauce. For a more complete meal, consider adding a side of steamed asparagus or roasted broccoli. But the fun doesn't stop there! Feel free to get creative with variations. If you're not a fan of shrimp, you could easily substitute it with scallops, lobster, or even crab meat. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce. You could also incorporate different cheeses, such as provolone or Parmesan, to create a unique flavor profile. If you are looking for a vegetarian option, you can substitute the shrimp with mushrooms or zucchini. Ready to embark on this culinary adventure? I wholeheartedly encourage you to try this Garlic Butter Shrimp Lasagna recipe. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Don't be intimidated by the layers; the process is straightforward, and the results are well worth the effort. I'm so excited for you to experience the magic of this dish! Once you've made it, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you make any modifications? What did your family and friends think? Share your photos and stories in the comments below! Let's create a community of Garlic Butter Shrimp Lasagna enthusiasts! I am confident that this recipe will become a family favorite. I can't wait to hear all about your culinary creations and how you made this Garlic Butter Shrimp Lasagna your own! Happy cooking!