Shrimp Appetizer Squares
Delicious shrimp appetizer squares feature a crispy crust topped with melted cheese, seasoned vegetables, and tender shrimp—perfect for parties and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F. Press the refrigerated pizza dough into a 13 x 9-inch greased baking sheet and bake for 5 to 10 minutes or until light golden brown.
- In a 10-inch skillet, heat butter until sizzling; add chopped onion, green pepper, red pepper, frozen cooked small shrimp, and dried basil leaves.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are crisply tender. Drain the mixture.
- Top the baked crust with half of the shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Spoon the shrimp and vegetable mixture evenly over the cheese layer.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
- Bake for an additional 8 to 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding some crushed red pepper for heat or substitute the shrimp with cooked crab or tuna for different flavors. Ensure the shrimp is thawed and drained well to avoid excess moisture. You can also use a pre-made pesto instead of dried basil for an extra layer of flavor. If you want a vegetarian option, omit the shrimp altogether and add more vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini.
Serving Suggestions
These Shrimp Appetizer Squares are perfect as a party snack or appetizer. Serve them with a side of marinara sauce for dipping or a fresh salad for a light meal. They pair beautifully with Yummy Crab Dip for a seafood-themed gathering. Consider serving with a refreshing drink like iced tea or a light white wine to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the squares in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual squares for quick reheating, but for best texture, oven reheating is recommended.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shrimp Appetizer Squares contains roughly 388 calories, with 16g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (33% of the Daily Value), protein (31% of the Daily Value), and calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 586mg per serving (25% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh shrimp instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh shrimp instead of frozen. Just make sure to cook them until they're pink and opaque before adding them to the skillet with the vegetables. Fresh shrimp can add a wonderful taste, but ensure they are properly cleaned and deveined.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the refrigerated pizza crust dough with a gluten-free pizza crust or use a cauliflower crust. Make sure all other ingredients, such as cheese and spices, are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
What vegetables can I add to this recipe?
You can customize this recipe by adding vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach. Just make sure to chop them finely and sauté them until tender before adding to the shrimp mixture. This will enhance the flavor and add more nutrients to the dish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).