Pizza Shrimp Skillet
Juicy shrimp simmered in a rich, herby pizza sauce, topped with bubbly, melted mozzarella cheese. All the flavors of your favorite pizza, but made in one skillet and ready in under 30 minutes!
For 4 servings
6 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Heat the olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat
- a.Add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables have softened and are lightly browned.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 1 minute more, until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn.
- 3
Pour in the pizza sauce and stir to combine
- a.Add the dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- 4
Pat the shrimp completely dry with paper towels
- a.Add them to the simmering sauce, stirring to coat. Cook for 3-4 minutes, just until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Do not overcook.
- 5
Remove the skillet from the heat
- a.Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Cover the skillet with a lid for 2-3 minutes to allow the residual heat to melt the cheese until it's gooey and bubbly.
- 6
Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately
- a.Enjoy with crusty bread, pasta, or zucchini noodles.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best flavor, use a high-quality pizza or marinara sauce as it forms the base of the dish.
- 2Patting the shrimp dry is a crucial step. It prevents the sauce from becoming watery and helps the shrimp cook properly.
- 3Shrimp cook in minutes. Watch them closely and remove from heat as soon as they are pink and opaque to avoid a tough, rubbery texture.
- 4For a beautifully browned, 'pizzeria-style' cheese topping, place the oven-safe skillet under a preheated broiler for 1-2 minutes after melting the cheese. Watch it carefully to prevent burning.
- 5If you have fresh oregano or basil, use them! Add fresh herbs at the end of cooking for the brightest flavor. Use about 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs for every 1 teaspoon of dried.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Swap
Substitute the shrimp with sliced Italian sausage, diced chicken breast, or mini meatballs. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
Add More VeggiesAdd More Veggies
Incorporate sliced mushrooms, black olives, or spinach for extra nutrients and flavor. Add mushrooms with the onions and spinach just before the shrimp.
Cheese BlendCheese Blend
Use a mix of mozzarella, provolone, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a more complex and savory cheese topping.
Make it SpicyMake it Spicy
Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a few slices of fresh jalapeño along with the garlic for a significant heat boost.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Lean Protein
Shrimp is a high-quality, lean protein source that is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle growth, and maintaining a healthy metabolism.
Rich in Lycopene
The tomato-based pizza sauce is a great source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage and is linked to a reduced risk of heart disease and certain cancers.
Supports Bone Health
Mozzarella cheese provides a good amount of calcium, a vital mineral for developing and maintaining strong bones and teeth, as well as for proper nerve and muscle function.
Frequently asked questions
A typical serving contains approximately 480-550 calories, depending on the specific pizza sauce and amount of cheese used.