BBQ Shrimp Pizza: A Quick and Delicious Twist on Classic Pizza
This BBQ Shrimp Pizza is a flavorful and quick recipe that comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight meal or an easy appetizer for any gathering. A long-time favorite from when I was on a low-fat, high-carb diet for swimming training, this recipe is a breeze to whip up as long as you have shrimp on hand. It’s incredibly versatile too, so feel free to adjust the ingredients to suit your tastes. For example, if shrimp isn’t your thing, you can easily substitute it with pre-cooked chicken, or even skip the protein entirely if you prefer a veggie pizza. The BBQ sauce adds a tangy sweetness that pairs perfectly with the shrimp, and the cheesy topping provides a rich, melty finish.
Whether you use frozen shrimp or fresh, this pizza is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
BBQ Shrimp Pizza Recipe
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Recipe Category: < 30 Minutes
Recipe Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Bay shrimp (or chicken) | 1 cup |
| Barbecue sauce | 4 tbsp |
| Cheese (mozzarella or cheddar) | 4 tbsp |
| Garlic (minced) | 1 clove |
| Oregano (dried) | 1/2 tsp |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 11.2 kcal |
| Fat Content | 0.3 g |
| Saturated Fat Content | 0 g |
| Cholesterol Content | 0 mg |
| Sodium Content | 122.2 mg |
| Carbohydrate Content | 1.9 g |
| Fiber Content | 0.2 g |
| Sugar Content | 0.6 g |
| Protein Content | 0.3 g |
Instructions:
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Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 325°F (165°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready to bake the pizza.
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Prepare the shrimp: In a small mixing bowl, combine the bay shrimp (or pre-cooked chicken, if preferred) with the barbecue sauce. Toss them together until the shrimp is well-coated in the sauce. If you’re using frozen shrimp, make sure to defrost it before using, as it will cook more evenly.
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Assemble the pizza: Spread the BBQ shrimp mixture evenly over your pizza crust. You can use a pre-baked pizza crust or a homemade one, depending on what you have on hand. The key is to make sure the shrimp is distributed evenly across the surface for the best flavor in every bite.
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Add garlic and seasonings: Sprinkle the minced garlic and dried oregano over the top for a burst of flavor. The garlic complements the BBQ sauce, and the oregano gives a classic pizza flavor. You can adjust the amount of garlic and oregano based on your personal taste preferences.
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Add cheese: If you’re using cheese, sprinkle it over the pizza now or halfway through the baking process for a melty, bubbly finish. If you prefer your cheese to remain more distinct, add it halfway through baking so that it doesn’t become too gooey and sticky.
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Bake: Place the prepared pizza on a flat baking sheet or directly onto the oven rack (if the crust can handle it) and bake for about 12–15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the shrimp is heated through. Keep an eye on the pizza to ensure the crust doesn’t overcook.
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Serve and enjoy: Once baked, remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a minute before slicing into 4 portions. Serve hot, and enjoy this simple, flavorful dish with a side salad or a refreshing drink.
Variations:
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Protein Swap: If shrimp isn’t available, try using pre-cooked chicken breast or even tofu for a vegetarian version. You can also use other seafood like scallops or crab meat for different flavors.
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Extra BBQ Sauce: Feel free to add more BBQ sauce for a tangier, richer flavor. Just drizzle it on top before serving for an extra burst of sweetness.
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Cheese Options: While mozzarella or cheddar cheese works wonderfully in this recipe, you can experiment with other cheese varieties like gouda, pepper jack, or feta to bring different textures and flavors to your BBQ shrimp pizza.
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Spicy Kick: For those who love spice, consider adding a dash of red pepper flakes or some sliced jalapeños to give the pizza a spicy zing.
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Crust Options: You can use store-bought pizza dough or a cauliflower crust for a low-carb option. Alternatively, a pre-baked flatbread or pita bread can be used for an even faster version.
This BBQ Shrimp Pizza is not only easy to prepare but is also customizable to fit your flavor preferences. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving a quick dinner, this recipe can be adapted for any occasion. Try it with your favorite variations and enjoy the rich, savory goodness that comes with every slice!
