Shrimp Scampi Garlic Pizza

This Shrimp Scampi Pizza marries buttery garlic shrimp and gooey cheese atop crispy golden crust all in just 20 minutes. When I crave something indulgent but fast this pie delivers every time and the aroma alone is worth making it

I whipped up this pie for an impromptu date night and now it is our go to when we want something special but stress free

Ingredients

• Butter: brings richness and helps the sauce carry flavor Use high quality unsalted butter for the best taste
• Garlic: infuses every bite with its signature intensity Chop fresh cloves for full aromatic power
• Red pepper flakes: add a hint of gentle heat If you like a little kick do not skip these
• Shrimp: provide sweet briny flavor and protein Opt for fresh or properly thawed shrimp with shells and veins removed
• Lemon juice: brightens and balances all that buttery goodness Use a real lemon for the best zing
• Pizza dough: acts as the delicious canvas Store bought or homemade both work but look for dough that is soft and elastic
• Mozzarella: delivers creaminess and helps everything melt together Shred your own for the best texture
• Parmigiano Reggiano: adds sharp nutty depth and lovely golden color on top Always grate it fresh if you can

Step by Step Instructions

Melt the Butter and Sauté the Garlic:

Melt the butter in a medium pan over medium heat Add chopped garlic and optional red pepper flakes Cook stirring until garlic is soft and fragrant about two minutes This sets a rich base for your scampi

Cook the Shrimp:

Add prepared shrimp to the pan Spread them out for even cooking Let them sizzle about one minute per side until barely pink and just opaque Drizzle lemon juice over all and remove from the heat to keep shrimp juicy

Assemble the Pizza:

Stretch or roll your pizza dough onto a baking sheet for a medium thick crust Pour the garlic lemon butter and shrimp evenly over the dough

Add the Cheese:

Sprinkle mozzarella generously over the top then finish with grated Parmigiano Reggiano for sharpness Make sure cheese is well distributed to cover the shrimp and reach the edges

Bake Until Golden:

Slide the pizza into a preheated very hot oven Bake until the cheese melts and bubbles and the crust turns crisp at the edges This takes about ten minutes at five hundred degrees Fahrenheit

Finish and Serve:

Sprinkle a handful of chopped parsley over the hot pizza Let cool just long enough to handle then slice and enjoy with a squeeze of lemon if you like

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Everyone in my family fights for the corner slices loaded with shrimp and crispy cheese The bright lemon flavor makes each bite feel special and light

Storage Tips

Store leftover slices chilled in an airtight container The toppings will stay delicious for up to two days To reheat bake at a moderate temperature until just warmed through which helps revive that crisp edge

Ingredient Substitutions

If you need to swap cheeses use provolone or fontina for a mild melting texture You can also use pre cooked or frozen shrimp just make sure they are thawed and patted dry before adding

Serving Suggestions

This pizza pairs well with a crisp green salad or a lemony arugula side For gatherings slice into small squares and serve as an appetizer platter The garlic lemon sauce invites a glass of white wine to the table

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Cultural Context

Scampi classically means shrimp or langoustines cooked in garlic and butter and this recipe puts all that flavor on a pizza Inspired by Italian American dishes it is a perfect blend of comfort food and a little seafood indulgence

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What kind of shrimp works best?

Medium to large peeled and deveined shrimp deliver the right texture and flavor for topping the pizza evenly.

→ How do I prevent soggy crust?

Spread the shrimp mixture evenly and bake at a high temperature so the crust crisps while the cheese melts.

→ Can I use precooked shrimp?

Fresh raw shrimp is ideal, but thawed precooked shrimp can be gently warmed with the garlic butter before assembling.

→ What cheese is best for this pizza?

Shredded mozzarella adds creaminess, while grated parmesan or parmigiano reggiano provides sharp, nutty flavor.

→ How long should this pizza bake?

About 10 minutes in a 500F/260C oven ensures a golden crust and bubbly, melted cheese.

→ What garnishes pair well on top?

Fresh parsley and a few lemon wedges balance the rich flavors and add a hint of freshness to each slice.