If you’re craving something truly special and comforting that will wow your taste buds, this Shrimp Lasagna with White Sauce and Cheese Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine layers of tender lasagna noodles, succulent shrimp, and a luscious, creamy white sauce all baked to bubbly, golden perfection. The blend of smooth ricotta, melty mozzarella, and sharp Parmesan cheese creates a heavenly harmony that brings every bite to life. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a get-together with friends, this dish feels like a warm, elegant hug on a plate. It’s rich, indulgent, and surprisingly easy to make, making it one of my favorite seafood takes on a classic Italian favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to creating this decadent dish. Each component serves an essential role, from imparting creamy richness to contributing fresh seafood flavor and delightful textures that make this shrimp lasagna irresistible.
- 9 lasagna noodles: These form the hearty base layers that hold everything together beautifully.
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped: Fresh or thawed, they provide a tender, juicy seafood burst in every bite.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Creates a silky foundation for sautéing and the roux, adding depth to the sauce.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Delivers aromatic punch that complements the shrimp perfectly.
- 1 small onion, finely diced: Adds subtle sweetness and texture to the sauté.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Essential for thickening the white sauce to the perfect creamy consistency.
- 2 cups whole milk: The main liquid for the sauce, providing richness and smoothness.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Elevates the sauce’s creaminess for a luxuriously velvety finish.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances all flavors and enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds just enough heat without overpowering the delicate seafood taste.
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For a subtle kick if you love a little spice.
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully to provide gooey, stringy cheese layers.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds sharp, nutty character and golden crust appeal.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: Brings creamy fluffiness and mild flavor that balances the rich sauce.
- 1 egg: Binds the ricotta to help each layer hold its structure.
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (plus more for garnish): Adds fresh color and herbaceous brightness.
- Olive oil or cooking spray for greasing: Prevents sticking and helps with easy serving.
How to Make Shrimp Lasagna with White Sauce and Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Noodles and Shrimp
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and greasing your 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent any sticking. Boil the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside—they want to be flexible but still hold their shape well. Next, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the finely diced onion for 2 to 3 minutes until translucent and fragrant, then add the minced garlic, letting it cook for just 30 seconds to release its aroma. Toss in the shrimp and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes until they turn a beautiful pink—be careful not to overcook. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside; they’ll go back into the lasagna soon.
Step 2: Make the Silky White Sauce
In the same skillet, sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the remaining butter and onion mixture, stirring constantly for about 1 minute to create a roux—the foundation for that creamy white sauce. Gradually whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream, making sure the sauce becomes smooth and free of lumps. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes for a hint of warmth. Let this simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes until the sauce thickens to the perfect consistency that will bind all your layers together.
Step 3: Melt the Cheeses into the Sauce
Remove the sauce from heat and stir in half a cup of shredded mozzarella along with the entire portion of grated Parmesan cheese until melted completely. The cheese infusion gives the sauce not just richness but also that irresistible glossy finish that makes the lasagna so addictive.
Step 4: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture
While the sauce cools slightly, mix the ricotta cheese with the egg and chopped parsley in a separate bowl. This combination adds a creamy texture and freshness that balances the heavier cheesy layers and shrimp.
Step 5: Assemble Your Shrimp Lasagna with White Sauce and Cheese Recipe
Now comes the fun part. Spread a thin layer of the white sauce on the bottom of your baking dish to keep the noodles from sticking. Lay down three cooked noodles, then spread half of the ricotta mixture evenly over them. Next, distribute half the shrimp followed by a generous spoonful of white sauce and a third of the shredded mozzarella. Repeat this layering process once more—noodles, ricotta, shrimp, sauce, mozzarella. Finally, top with your remaining three noodles, the last of the white sauce, and the leftover mozzarella cheese.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 25 minutes to let all those glorious flavors meld together. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes until everything bubbles excitedly and the top is a gorgeous golden hue. Let your lasagna rest for about 10 minutes before slicing—this helps it set so your layers don’t slide apart when served. Garnish with extra chopped parsley for a fresh pop of color and flavor.
How to Serve Shrimp Lasagna with White Sauce and Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
The simplest garnishes can elevate your shrimp lasagna beautifully. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a vibrant green contrast and fresh herbal notes that lighten the richness of the dish. You might also consider a few lemon wedges on the side to brighten each bite with a zesty splash—perfect for seafood.
Side Dishes
For sides, keep it light to balance the lasagna’s richness. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or garlic-roasted asparagus pairs wonderfully. Steamed broccoli or a bright arugula salad tossed with cherry tomatoes and lemon offers fresh contrast and texture to complete your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special touch, serve individual portions in small ramekins or clear baking dishes to show off the gorgeous layers of shrimp, cheese, and noodles. This creates a beautiful presentation for dinner parties. Alternatively, top each slice with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a few shaved Parmesan curls to impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your feast, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish keeps well, and the flavors only deepen overnight, making for perfect next-day indulgence.
Freezing
This shrimp lasagna freezes beautifully! Assemble as directed but stop before baking, then wrap tightly with foil and plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual, adding extra time if needed to ensure it’s heated through.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil to prevent drying out, for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual slices on medium power, covered, for about 2 to 3 minutes, stirring halfway to keep everything luscious.
FAQs
Can I substitute shrimp with another seafood?
Absolutely! Scallops or chunks of firm white fish like cod can also work well in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to avoid overcooking delicate seafood.
Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
You can make this gluten-free by using gluten-free lasagna noodles and substituting regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend for the roux. The creamy white sauce and cheesy layers remain just as delicious.
How do I add vegetables to the shrimp lasagna?
Sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini are fantastic additions. Simply layer them along with the shrimp or mix into the ricotta cheese for extra flavor and nutrition.
Can I prepare the white sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the sauce can be made a day in advance and refrigerated. When ready to assemble, gently rewarm it over low heat, adding a splash of milk if it has thickened too much.
What wine pairs well with this shrimp lasagna?
A crisp, chilled white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc balances the richness of the cheese and cream while complementing the seafood flavors beautifully.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Shrimp Lasagna with White Sauce and Cheese Recipe a whirl in your kitchen. It’s such a comforting blend of flavors that feels fancy but is surprisingly straightforward to make. Whether for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering, this dish promises smiles and satisfied taste buds all around. Enjoy every creamy, cheesy, shrimp-filled bite—you’re going to love it!
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Shrimp Lasagna with White Sauce and Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
This delightful Shrimp Lasagna with White Sauce and Cheese combines tender shrimp, creamy ricotta, and a luscious white béchamel sauce layered between perfectly cooked lasagna noodles. Baked until bubbly and golden, this Italian-inspired main course offers a rich, savory seafood twist on the traditional lasagna that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Lasagna and Protein
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
Sauce and Cheese Mixtures
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (plus more for garnish)
Other
- Olive oil or cooking spray for greasing
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook Noodles: Boil the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside on a plate to prevent sticking.
- Sauté Aromatics and Shrimp: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the finely diced onion and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the chopped shrimp and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until they turn pink and are just cooked through. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
- Make White Sauce: In the same skillet, sprinkle the flour over the remaining butter and onion mixture. Stir constantly for 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream, stirring continuously to keep the sauce smooth. Add salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Simmer the sauce gently for 5 to 7 minutes until it thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Add Cheeses to Sauce: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in ½ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and all of the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and incorporated into the sauce.
- Prepare Ricotta Mixture: In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, and chopped parsley. Mix well to create a creamy filling.
- Assemble Lasagna: Start by spreading a thin layer of the white sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Layer 3 cooked lasagna noodles on top, followed by half of the ricotta mixture, half of the cooked shrimp, some more white sauce, and one-third of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat this layering process with the next 3 noodles, remaining ricotta mixture, remaining shrimp, additional sauce, and another third of mozzarella. Finally, top with the last 3 noodles, the remaining white sauce, and the last third of mozzarella cheese.
- Bake Covered: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes to allow flavors to meld and the cheese to heat through.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 to 15 minutes until the lasagna is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
- Rest and Garnish: Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes after baking to set. Garnish with additional chopped parsley before serving for a fresh pop of color and flavor.
Notes
- Enhance the flavor by adding sautéed spinach or mushrooms between the layers.
- For a richer white sauce, consider adding a splash of dry white wine while simmering the sauce.
- Use fresh parsley for garnish to add brightness.
- Allow the lasagna to rest after baking so it slices cleanly and holds together.
