Move over, pepperoni — there’s a new pizza in town, and it’s bursting with bold, buttery, garlicky flavor. If you love the rich taste of garlic butter shrimp and the indulgent satisfaction of a hot, cheesy pizza, this Garlic Butter Shrimp Pizza is about to become your new favorite dinner. It’s quick to make, full of gourmet flair, and guaranteed to wow your family or guests.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd, treating yourself to a fancy-feeling weeknight meal, or looking to impress on pizza night, this recipe hits every mark. It’s loaded with juicy shrimp, melted cheese, and a savory garlic butter base that elevates the flavor of every bite.
Why This Pizza Is a Must-Try
This Garlic Butter Shrimp Pizza is perfect for seafood fans and pizza lovers alike. It comes together in just 25 minutes and requires minimal prep. The blend of smoked paprika and garlic powder infuses the shrimp with smoky, aromatic goodness, while the two-cheese combo ensures every bite is creamy, stringy, and satisfying.
If you’re bored of basic pizzas, this one brings restaurant-quality flavor with none of the fuss. It’s a great option for Friday night dinners, weekend movie marathons, or even as an appetizer for a seafood-themed dinner party.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you’ll need to make your own Garlic Butter Shrimp Pizza:
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1 pre-made pizza dough or crust
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1/2 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
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3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
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1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1/4 cup marinara or pizza sauce
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1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
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1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
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2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Equipment You’ll Need
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Pizza stone or baking sheet
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Mixing bowl
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Small skillet or saucepan (for melting butter)
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Pastry brush (optional)
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Sharp knife or pizza cutter
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Spatula or tongs (for tossing shrimp)
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Roll out your pre-made pizza dough onto a baking sheet or pizza stone. Brush the edges with olive oil — this helps create a beautifully golden, crisp crust.
2. Season the Shrimp
In a mixing bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with melted butter, minced garlic, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Make sure the shrimp is fully coated for maximum flavor.
3. Assemble the Pizza
Spread marinara or pizza sauce evenly over the dough. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese across the top.
4. Add the Shrimp
Arrange the seasoned shrimp evenly over the cheesy base. Sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan on top.
5. Bake to Perfection
Bake in your preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown, the shrimp is cooked through, and the cheese is bubbling and lightly golden.
6. Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven and top with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Slice and serve immediately!
Tips & Tricks for Success
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Use fresh or thawed shrimp — avoid pre-cooked shrimp as it can turn rubbery during baking.
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Don’t skip the olive oil crust brush — it adds crunch and color to the edge.
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Marinate ahead — for even more flavor, let the shrimp marinate in the garlic butter mixture for 15–30 minutes before assembling the pizza.
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Upgrade your dough — use a high-quality store-bought dough or try homemade pizza dough for an artisanal touch.
Creative Variations
Want to mix it up? Here are some ideas to make this pizza your own:
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Spicy Shrimp Pizza: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the shrimp mixture.
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White Garlic Pizza Base: Skip the marinara and use a garlic cream sauce or just extra garlic butter as the base.
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Extra Veggies: Add thin slices of red onion, bell pepper, or fresh spinach before baking.
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Lemon Zest Finish: Grate fresh lemon zest over the finished pizza to brighten the flavor and add zing.
How to Store Leftovers
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pizza is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored and reheated with great results.
To Store:
Place slices in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
To Reheat:
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Oven: Reheat at 375°F for 8–10 minutes for best texture.
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Skillet: Warm on a nonstick pan over low heat with a lid for crisp crust and melty cheese.
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Microwave: Heat for 30–60 seconds, though note the crust may soften.
Freezing is not recommended for shrimp-based pizzas due to texture changes.
What to Serve with Shrimp Pizza
Looking to round out your meal? These sides and drinks pair beautifully:
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Arugula Salad with lemon vinaigrette
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Garlic knots or breadsticks
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Chilled white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio
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Sparkling water with lemon or cucumber
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Crispy roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers
Nutritional Info (Per Slice)
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Calories: 290
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Fat: 14g
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Carbohydrates: 22g
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Protein: 20g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just be sure they’re fully thawed and patted dry before tossing with the garlic butter mixture.
What kind of pizza dough should I use?
Any pre-made or homemade pizza dough works well. Thin crust or Neapolitan-style gives the best crispness.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, swap in your favorite dairy-free cheeses and use plant-based butter for the shrimp.
Is this recipe spicy?
Not inherently. The smoked paprika adds warmth but not heat. Add chili flakes if you like it spicy.
How do I know when the shrimp is done?
Shrimp are fully cooked when they turn pink and opaque, usually within the 12–15 minute bake time.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pizza is a delightful twist on a classic comfort food — bringing together the elegance of seafood with the crave-worthy appeal of melted cheese and a crispy crust. It’s fast, flavorful, and fun to make, whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a hungry group of friends.
If you try this recipe, share it with fellow foodies, pin it to your pizza board, and don’t forget to subscribe to the blog for more mouthwatering meals, clever kitchen tips, and creative cooking inspiration. Let’s keep the pizza party going! 🍕
