There is something truly magical about the Shrimp Lasagna with White Sauce and Cheese Recipe that makes it a standout among comfort foods. Combining tender, juicy shrimp with delicate layers of lasagna sheets and a luxuriously creamy white sauce, all melting together under a blanket of golden mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, creates a dish bursting with flavor and texture. This recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional lasagna, bringing fresh seafood into the mix with an irresistibly rich and smooth sauce that’s perfect for any occasion where you want to impress but keep things cozy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Shrimp Lasagna with White Sauce and Cheese Recipe relies on simple, fresh ingredients that come together to create a dish that’s elegant yet approachable. Each component plays a key role—from the sweetness of the shrimp to the silky texture of the white sauce and the melty, golden cheeses that top it all off.
- 500g clean and peeled prawns (shrimp): The star ingredient, providing tender seafood flavor and a lovely pink color.
- 12 sheets of lasagna pasta: These create the perfect layers to hold all the creamy goodness together.
- 3 tablespoons butter: Used for richness in both cooking the shrimp and preparing the sauce.
- 1 small onion, chopped: Adds gentle sweetness and depth to the white sauce.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Provides aromatic warmth and enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1 cup cream (or heavy cream): Makes the white sauce indulgently smooth and luscious.
- 1 cup milk: Balances the cream for a lighter, more delicate sauce consistency.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty bite to the sauce that complements the shrimp beautifully.
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese: Melts into a gooey topping that makes every bite irresistible.
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese: Offers a mild, creamy layer that brightens the texture between shrimp and pasta.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: Brings an herbaceous freshness to balance the richness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasoning that enhances all the delicate flavors.
- Olive oil (for cooking shrimp and sautéing): Adds a subtle fruitiness and helps achieve perfect textures.
How to Make Shrimp Lasagna with White Sauce and Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pasta
Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). While the oven warms up, cook the lasagna sheets according to the package instructions until just tender. Once done, drain the sheets carefully and set them aside, making sure they don’t stick together. This step sets the foundation for those beautiful layers.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter with a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Toss in your peeled shrimp and cook them until just pink and opaque—about 2 to 3 minutes. Avoid overcooking so they stay juicy and tender. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside; you’ll add them back later.
Step 3: Make the White Sauce
Using the same skillet, melt the remaining butter and gently sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened and fragrant. Slowly pour in the cream and milk, stirring constantly. Keep the heat low and allow the mixture to thicken slightly. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, along with salt and pepper to your taste. Cook until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth, ready to coat every layer of your lasagna.
Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna
Now for the fun part: layering! Start by spreading a thin layer of white sauce at the bottom of your baking dish. Add a layer of lasagna sheets, then scatter cooked shrimp over them. Dollop spoonfuls of ricotta cheese and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Repeat these layers until you run out of ingredients, making sure the top layer is white sauce. Finish by generously sprinkling mozzarella cheese over the whole dish for that irresistible golden crust.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place your assembled lasagna into the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is bubbling and a gorgeous golden brown. That beautiful color signals that all those creamy cheeses have melted into cheesy bliss.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Patience is key here—allow the lasagna to cool for a few minutes before slicing to let it set, ensuring clean, beautiful servings. Garnish with extra parsley if you like, and get ready for a feast!
How to Serve Shrimp Lasagna with White Sauce and Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley is a perfect garnish to add a pop of green and a fresh herbal note that balances the rich, creamy layers of this dish. You might also consider a light sprinkle of lemon zest to brighten the flavors and add a subtle zing that complements the shrimp beautifully.
Side Dishes
To complement the richness of the Shrimp Lasagna with White Sauce and Cheese Recipe, pair it with a crisp mixed green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette or some roasted seasonal vegetables. A side of garlic bread with a crunchy crust is also a fantastic choice to soak up every last bit of that luscious white sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the lasagna in individual ramekins to give each guest a personal helping with perfectly layered servings. Alternatively, sprinkle a handful of toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of chili oil on top for an unexpected texture and flavor boost. Presentation is just as enjoyable as the eating!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers of the Shrimp Lasagna with White Sauce and Cheese Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors actually meld and deepen overnight, making your next meal just as delightful. It’s best consumed within 2 to 3 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing
This lasagna freezes beautifully. To freeze, wrap individual portions tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place them in freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture after reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers gently in the oven at 160°C (325°F) until warmed through to preserve the creamy sauce and melt the cheese back to perfection. You can also use a microwave on medium power, but covering the dish helps retain moisture and prevents drying out.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this Shrimp Lasagna with White Sauce and Cheese Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp thoroughly and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in your lasagna, which could affect the texture of the layers.
What can I substitute for ricotta cheese if I don’t have any?
Ricotta cheese gives a creamy texture, but you can substitute it with cottage cheese or a blend of cream cheese mixed with a bit of milk to keep the same smoothness.
Is it necessary to use both cream and milk for the white sauce?
Using both cream and milk balances richness with lightness, creating the perfect white sauce consistency. If you want a lighter version, you can use just milk, but the sauce won’t be as indulgently creamy.
Can I prepare this lasagna a day ahead?
Yes, assembling it a day before and refrigerating it helps the flavors meld beautifully. Just remember to add the mozzarella cheese on top before baking to get that lovely golden finish.
How can I make the top cheesy layer extra crispy?
For an extra crispy top, you can broil the lasagna for the last 2 to 3 minutes of baking, but watch it carefully so it doesn’t burn.
Final Thoughts
You’re going to love how the Shrimp Lasagna with White Sauce and Cheese Recipe comes together with such ease yet delivers a meal that feels truly special. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a dish to impress friends, this recipe brings warmth, comfort, and a touch of elegance to the table. Give it a try and savor every creamy, cheesy bite!
