This Shrimp Scampi Flatbread Pizza combines indulgent garlic-butter shrimp flavors with the convenience of a quick, satisfying pizza.
Packed with high-quality protein from shrimp and heart-healthy fats from olive oil and butter, it’s both flavorful and nourishing.
Low in carbs yet rich in taste, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or easy weekend cooking.
Shrimp Scampi Flatbread Pizza
Equipment
- 1 cutting board
- 1 chef’s knife
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 sauté pan
- 1 Basting Brush
- 1 oven
- 1 Baking sheet
Ingredients
For the Marinade:
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 ½ tablespoons lemon juice
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound shrimp peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 –4 cloves garlic sliced or minced
- ¼ cup white wine Sauvignon Blanc recommended
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon crushed red pepper flakes optional
For the Flatbread:
- 1 flatbread
- 4 ounces mozzarella cheese or sharp cheddar
- 1 ounce Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: Start by finely mincing 2 cloves of fresh garlic. Place the minced garlic into a medium mixing bowl. Add 1 teaspoon of salt, 2 tablespoons of high-quality olive oil, the zest of one lemon, and 1 ½ tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice. Stir everything together until well combined. This fragrant mixture will infuse the shrimp with bright citrus and rich garlic flavor.
- Marinate the Shrimp: Take 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp and place them into the marinade bowl. Toss gently to ensure every shrimp is coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and let it rest at room temperature for about 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to penetrate the shrimp while keeping them moist and tender during cooking.
- Prepare the Garlic and Seasonings: While the shrimp is marinating, peel and slice 3 to 4 cloves of garlic thinly or mince them finely, depending on your preference for texture. Measure out 1 tablespoon of crushed red pepper flakes (optional) and 1 teaspoon of salt, setting them aside. This preparation will make the cooking process smoother and ensure flavors are perfectly balanced.
- Heat the Sauté Pan: Place a large sauté pan over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter. Allow them to melt together gently, stirring occasionally, until the butter is completely liquified and aromatic. This combination creates a rich, flavorful base for the shrimp, adding depth to the dish.
- Sauté the Garlic and Red Pepper: Once the butter and oil are hot, add the prepared garlic and crushed red pepper flakes to the pan. Sauté for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning. You want the garlic to become fragrant and slightly golden, releasing its oils into the mixture without turning bitter.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add the marinated shrimp, along with all of the marinade liquid, into the sauté pan. Stir gently to coat the shrimp in the garlic butter mixture. Pour in ¼ cup of white wine (Sauvignon Blanc recommended for its crisp, citrus notes). Allow the liquid to simmer gently, letting the alcohol evaporate while intensifying the flavor. Cook the shrimp for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn pink and opaque. Overcooking will make shrimp rubbery, so keep a close eye. Once done, transfer the shrimp to a separate bowl and set aside.
- Prepare the Flatbread Base: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) or follow the heating instructions on your flatbread package. While the oven heats, place your flatbread on a baking sheet or pizza stone. Using a basting brush, spread the garlic butter sauce left in the sauté pan evenly over the flatbread. This adds a deeply flavored base that will enhance every bite.
- Layer the Cheese: Sprinkle 4 ounces of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the flatbread. This creates a creamy, melty layer that will bind the toppings together. Then add the cooked shrimp evenly across the flatbread, ensuring each slice will get a generous portion. Finally, sprinkle 1 ounce of grated Parmesan cheese over the shrimp for a sharp, nutty finish.
- Bake the Pizza: Place the assembled flatbread in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 12 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted, bubbling, and lightly golden. Keep a close watch to avoid overcooking. The edges of the flatbread should be crisp, while the toppings stay moist and flavorful.
- Rest and Serve: Once baked, carefully remove the flatbread pizza from the oven. Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes to allow the flavors to settle and the cheese to firm slightly. Slice the pizza into 8 portions using a sharp pizza cutter or chef’s knife. Serve warm, optionally garnished with fresh parsley or lemon wedges for extra brightness.
Notes
- Always use fresh shrimp if possible for the best texture and flavor. Frozen shrimp can work, but thaw completely and pat dry before marinating.
- Adjust the garlic and crushed red pepper flakes according to your personal preference for spice and intensity.
- Sauvignon Blanc is recommended for its bright, citrusy profile, but any dry white wine works well.
- Use a high-quality flatbread for a crisp texture; store-bought or homemade both work.
- Letting the pizza rest after baking improves the flavor blend and makes it easier to slice.
Chef’s Secrets For Perfect Pizza
One key to achieving the perfect Shrimp Scampi Flatbread Pizza is in the marinade.
Allowing the shrimp to soak in lemon, garlic, and olive oil not only enhances flavor but also tenderizes the shrimp.
When cooking shrimp, do not overcook them — they only need 3 to 5 minutes to turn pink and opaque.
Overcooking will make them rubbery.
For a richer depth of flavor, brush the flatbread with the pan sauce before adding cheese.
This ensures every bite is infused with buttery, garlicky goodness.
Finally, experiment with different cheeses — sharp cheddar or a blend of mozzarella and provolone can give delightful variations while keeping the creamy texture intact.
Serving Suggestions For Maximum Enjoyment
Shrimp Scampi Flatbread Pizza is versatile and pairs beautifully with light sides.
Serve alongside a crisp garden salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette to balance richness.
A side of steamed asparagus or roasted broccoli adds freshness and texture.
For a more Mediterranean touch, add a drizzle of olive oil and sprinkle with fresh herbs such as parsley or basil before serving.
Pair with a glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to complement the citrus and garlic notes of the shrimp.
This pizza also works perfectly for casual gatherings or as part of a tapas-style spread with small plates.
Storage Tips To Keep Fresh
This flatbread pizza is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored properly to maintain flavor and texture.
Place any leftover pizza in an airtight container or wrap tightly in aluminum foil, then refrigerate for up to 2 days.
Reheat gently in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–8 minutes to maintain crispiness.
Avoid microwaving for best texture, as it can make the crust soggy.
For longer storage, shrimp can be cooked and stored separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before assembling the pizza.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes. You can prepare the shrimp and the flatbread ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and assemble right before baking.
This keeps the flatbread from becoming soggy and ensures the shrimp stays tender.
2. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely. Just ensure the shrimp are fully thawed and patted dry before marinating. This prevents excess moisture, which can affect the texture and crispness of the flatbread.
3. What other cheeses work well for this recipe?
While mozzarella and Parmesan are classic, you can experiment with sharp cheddar, provolone, or even a blend for added depth of flavor. Goat cheese also works beautifully for a tangy twist.
4. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes. Simply use gluten-free flatbread instead of traditional flatbread. Most gluten-free varieties bake well and still provide a crisp base for the shrimp and toppings.
5. How can I add more flavor without extra spice?
Try adding fresh herbs such as parsley, basil, or thyme. A squeeze of lemon juice before serving can brighten the flavor without adding heat. Garlic butter or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan also elevates the taste.
