A quick and delicious twist on classic shrimp scampi, this flatbread pizza offers creamy garlic flavors atop crisp flatbread. High in protein and low in carbs, it’s a balanced, flavorful meal perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a crowd-pleasing recipe that’s as nutritious as it is tasty.
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.