Phyllo dough shrimp pizza: a light, crispy, and scrumptious appetizer that’s quick to prepare and perfect for game day or any gathering.
This recipe comes together in minutes and has become a family favorite. The phyllo crust bakes up golden and crisp while the shrimp, caramelized onions, and colorful peppers add bright flavor and texture. It’s an easy crowd-pleaser that works as an appetizer, a light dinner, or part of a multi-course spread.
Use your favorite toppings — classic pizza sauce, garlic, tomatoes and basil are excellent choices. I’ve also enjoyed this pie with pesto, salsa verde, or BBQ sauce, but my family usually prefers traditional pizza sauce.
Begin by caramelizing a sliced red onion in olive oil until it turns sweet and golden. A pinch of salt helps draw out the onion’s natural sugars.
Layer the phyllo sheets on a baking tray, brushing each sheet with melted butter as you stack them. The butter keeps the layers crisp and adds a rich flavor that complements the toppings.
Spread a thin, even layer of pizza sauce over the stacked phyllo base. This prevents the crust from becoming soggy and gives every bite a familiar pizza taste.
Top with the caramelized onion, cooked cocktail shrimp, and thinly sliced sweet peppers. Finish with a generous sprinkle of shredded mozzarella and bake until the cheese is melted and the phyllo edges are golden, about 15–20 minutes.
One common question is whether to brush phyllo with butter, olive oil, or a cooking spray. From my experience using phyllo frequently in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cooking, melted butter gives the best flavor and texture. If you want the classic crisp flaky layers, butter is my recommendation.
This pizza is great for weeknight dinners served with a Caesar salad, or as an appetizer alongside a fresh tabbouleh when you have extra time for chopping. It’s not meant to replace traditional pizza crusts but offers a fast, elegant alternative. To create a thicker crust, simply add more phyllo sheets.
I hope you enjoy making and sharing this phyllo shrimp pizza — it’s easy, delicious, and always a hit with family and guests.
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- Egyptian goulash is a buttery meat phyllo pie that makes a stunning party or holiday dish.
Shrimp pizza
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Ingredients
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil.
- 1 medium red onion thinly sliced.
- 1/٤ teaspoon salt.
- 10 sheets frozen phyllo dough thawed.*
- ¼ cup butter melted.**
- ¼ cup pizza sauce.***
- 1 lb small cooked cocktail shrimp.
- ½ cup thinly sliced sweet peppers.
- 2 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella.
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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In a pan over medium heat, caramelize the sliced onion in olive oil until soft and golden; season with salt.
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Place one phyllo sheet on a baking sheet and brush lightly with melted butter.
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Repeat layering and brushing until you have the desired crust thickness.
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Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the phyllo base.
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Arrange the caramelized onion, shrimp, and sliced peppers on top.
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Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella.
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Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the phyllo is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
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Slice and serve with a simple salad.
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Enjoy!
Notes
** Butter gives a rich flavor and flakier texture; olive oil or cooking spray can be used but will alter the taste.
*** Feel free to experiment with different sauces to suit your taste.