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This shrimp scampi pizza combines two beloved favorites into one irresistible dish. The garlicky butter sauce that typically coats shrimp scampi becomes the perfect flavor base for a pizza, while plump shrimp and melty cheese create a combination that's impossible to resist.
I first created this recipe when I was craving both pizza and seafood but couldn't decide between the two. Now it's requested at every family gathering, and even my seafood-skeptical nephew devours it without hesitation.
Ingredients
- Butter: Forms the luxurious base for the sauce that coats the entire pizza
- Garlic: Provides that classic scampi flavor profile use fresh for the best punch
- Red pepper flakes: Add a gentle heat that complements the sweetness of the shrimp
- Shrimp: Should be medium to large size and fully deveined for best texture
- Lemon juice: Brightens everything and cuts through the richness
- Pizza dough: Use store bought for convenience or homemade for extra flavor
- Mozzarella cheese: Creates that classic pizza pull look for low moisture variety
- Parmigiano Reggiano: Adds a salty nutty finish that elevates the entire dish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare The Sauce:
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat until it begins to foam. Add chopped garlic and optional red pepper flakes, stirring constantly for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not brown. The aroma should fill your kitchen as the butter takes on a golden hue.
- Cook The Shrimp:
- Add shrimp to the garlic butter in a single layer, cooking just until they turn pink and begin to curl, approximately 1 minute per side. Be careful not to overcook as they'll continue cooking in the oven. The shrimp should be just opaque.
- Finish The Scampi Mixture:
- Pour lemon juice over the shrimp and butter mixture, stirring to combine all the flavors. Remove from heat immediately to prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery. The sauce will look slightly emulsified with tiny butter particles suspended in the liquid.
- Assemble The Pizza:
- Stretch your pizza dough onto a baking sheet or pizza stone to your desired thickness. Spread the entire shrimp mixture, including all the flavorful butter sauce, evenly across the dough surface. The butter will soak into the dough and create a flavorful crust.
- Add Cheese And Bake:
- Sprinkle mozzarella evenly over the surface, followed by the grated Parmigiano Reggiano. Place in a preheated 500°F oven and bake until the cheese is bubbly and the crust turns golden brown, approximately 8-10 minutes depending on your oven.
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The garlic is truly the star of this recipe. I once accidentally doubled the amount called for, and my family unanimously agreed it was even better that way. Now I always use at least six large cloves, letting them infuse into the butter until my entire house smells like an Italian restaurant.
Make Ahead Options
This pizza can be partially prepared in advance to make dinner time even easier. Cook the shrimp scampi mixture up to a day ahead and refrigerate in an airtight container. When ready to bake, simply warm the mixture slightly so the butter returns to a liquid state before spreading on the dough. This method actually allows the flavors to deepen and meld together even more beautifully.
Perfect Pairings
A bright, acidic side salad with a simple vinaigrette makes the perfect accompaniment to this rich pizza. The acidity cuts through the buttery topping and refreshes the palate between bites. For beverages, a crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the garlicky shrimp wonderfully, while a light lager beer also makes an excellent casual pairing option.
Customization Ideas
This versatile pizza base welcomes many variations. Try adding thinly sliced cherry tomatoes or baby spinach leaves before baking for a pop of color and extra nutrition. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano sprinkled after baking add brightness. For a spicier version, increase the red pepper flakes or add thinly sliced fresh jalapeños. You can even swap the shrimp for lump crab meat for an equally delicious seafood pizza experience.
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This pizza will impress guests and satisfy seafood lovers, making it a must-try for any occasion.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use pre-cooked shrimp for this pizza?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked shrimp, but add them to the garlic butter mixture just long enough to warm through and absorb flavors (about 30 seconds) to prevent overcooking. The shrimp should remain tender on the final pizza.
- → What's the best pizza dough to use?
Store-bought pizza dough works perfectly for convenience, but homemade dough provides the best flavor. For this seafood topping, a thinner crust works particularly well to maintain the balance between toppings and base.
- → How can I make this pizza spicier?
Increase the amount of red pepper flakes in the garlic butter sauce, or add sliced fresh chilis like jalapeños before baking. You could also drizzle the finished pizza with chili oil or hot honey for an extra kick.
- → Can I prepare any components ahead of time?
The garlic butter shrimp mixture can be prepared up to a day in advance and refrigerated. Bring to room temperature before assembling the pizza. The dough can also be prepared ahead and refrigerated until ready to use.
- → What side dishes pair well with Shrimp Scampi Pizza?
Light, fresh sides complement this pizza best. Try a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette, roasted vegetables, or a Caesar salad. For a heartier meal, garlic knots or breadsticks make excellent accompaniments.
- → Can I substitute the cheeses?
Yes, while mozzarella provides the classic melt and parmesan adds flavor, you can substitute with fontina, provolone, or even a light sprinkle of feta. Just ensure your primary cheese has good melting properties for that perfect cheesy pull.