
Description
Shrimp Alfredo Lasagna
This creamy, indulgent lasagna is filled with succulent shrimp and a rich, cheesy alfredo sauce. It’s a delicious twist on traditional lasagna, perfect for seafood lovers and anyone craving a comforting, creamy dish!
Ingredients:
For the Shrimp:
1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Alfredo Sauce:
1/2 cup unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Lasagna:
9 lasagna noodles (cooked and drained)
2 cups ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
Prepare the Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp, season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper, and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Remove from heat and set aside.
Make the Alfredo Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the heavy cream and milk, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Once simmering, gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese, and continue to cook until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper.
Assemble the Lasagna: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread a thin layer of Alfredo sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Place a layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread a layer of ricotta cheese, followed by a few shrimp, then top with mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of mozzarella cheese on top.
Bake the Lasagna: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm. Enjoy your creamy Shrimp Alfredo Lasagna with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad!
This Shrimp Alfredo Lasagna is the perfect dish for a comforting, creamy meal with a seafood twist. The combination of shrimp, Alfredo sauce, and layers of cheese makes this lasagna a rich and indulgent treat!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for perfect results. First, ensure your shrimp are fully peeled, deveined, and patted dry. Cook them just until pink; overcooking will make them rubbery in the final bake. For the sauce, keep the heat at a gentle simmer when adding the Parmesan to prevent it from becoming grainy. Stir constantly until fully melted and smooth. When assembling, use a ladle to spread sauces thinly and evenly. A key step is to let the cooked lasagna noodles lay flat on parchment paper to prevent sticking before assembly.
Serving Suggestions
This rich lasagna pairs beautifully with light, acidic sides to cut through the creaminess. Serve with a simple arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette, or roasted asparagus. For a classic pairing, offer warm, crusty garlic bread. A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the seafood and cream sauce perfectly.
How-to Summary
In summary: Cook and season the shrimp. Create a creamy Alfredo sauce by simmering butter, garlic, dairy, and Parmesan. In a baking dish, layer Alfredo sauce, noodles, ricotta, shrimp, and mozzarella. Repeat layers. Bake covered at 350°F for 25 minutes, then uncovered for 10-15 minutes until golden. Garnish with parsley and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pre-cooked shrimp? Yes, but add them to the layers frozen or thawed. Since they are already cooked, they will only warm through in the oven, preventing toughness.
Can I make this lasagna ahead of time? Absolutely. Assemble the lasagna, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 10-15 minutes to the covered baking time when cooking from cold.
What can I use instead of ricotta? An equal amount of full-fat cottage cheese (blended smooth if preferred) or a bechamel sauce makes a fine substitute for a different texture.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover the whole dish with foil and warm in a 325°F oven until heated through.
Can I freeze Shrimp Alfredo Lasagna? It’s possible but not ideal. The dairy-based sauce may separate slightly upon thawing and reheating. For best results, freeze before baking, thaw overnight in the fridge, and then bake as directed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the shrimp initially: They will cook further in the oven.
- Adding Parmesan to a boiling sauce: High heat can cause the cheese to clump and become oily.
- Using noodles that are too wet: Drain and pat them dry to prevent a watery lasagna.
- Skimping on the bottom sauce layer: This prevents noodles from sticking to the dish.
- Not letting it rest: Allow the lasagna to sit for 10 minutes after baking for cleaner slices.
Conclusion
This Shrimp Alfredo Lasagna is a show-stopping dish that masterfully combines the comfort of lasagna with the luxurious flavor of seafood Alfredo. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a restaurant-quality meal at home. It’s an impressive, indulgent recipe perfect for special dinners or when you simply crave something extraordinarily creamy and satisfying. Enjoy the delicious results of your culinary effort!