Bright, briny, and bursting with Mediterranean vibrance, this Shrimp Saganaki Recipe is a one-pan wonder that brings together juicy shrimp, a zesty tomato sauce, and creamy feta cheese for a meal that’s both rustic and elegant. Whether you’re aiming for a quick weeknight dinner or dreaming up a show-stopping appetizer for your next get-together, this dish always manages to steal the show. Each bite delivers a satisfying contrast of flavors and textures, and you only need basic pantry ingredients to craft something truly special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best parts about the Shrimp Saganaki Recipe is just how simple its ingredient list is — but don’t let that fool you! Each item is essential, building rich layers of flavor, beautiful color, and that signature Greek tang.

Shrimp: Bright, tender, and sweet, peeled and deveined shrimp soak up every drop of the herby tomato base.
Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: Adds velvety richness and depth, and infuses the sauce with a classic Mediterranean note.
Onion: A gentle sauté forms the sweet, fragrant base of the sauce.
Garlic: A couple of cloves bring irresistible aroma and a little savory kick.
Crushed Tomatoes: Canned or fresh both work; this is the juicy, tangy backbone of the recipe.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled over the top, feta melts into creamy, salty pockets that balance the bright tomato sauce.
Ouzo (optional): A splash of this anise-flavored spirit adds authentic Greek flair — but you can skip it for a family-friendly version.
Fresh Parsley: Sprinkled on last, parsley brings color and a fresh lift to every serving.
Dried Oregano: Just a pinch gives the whole dish a distinctly Mediterranean flavor profile.
Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, but a great way to dial up a gentle heat if you like a little zip.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for bringing all the elements of this Shrimp Saganaki Recipe together in perfect balance.

How to Make Shrimp Saganaki Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by warming up the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then scatter in your chopped onion. Let it slowly soften and become translucent — this step coaxes out the onion’s sweetness, which forms a delicious base. Once the onion is ready, toss in the minced garlic and give it just 30 seconds. You’ll know it’s done when it smells heavenly, so keep an eye (and nose) on it!

Step 2: Simmer the Tomato Sauce

Next, pour in your crushed tomatoes, along with the dried oregano and a pinch of salt and pepper. If you’re adding ouzo, splash it in now. Bring everything to a gentle simmer and let it cook uncovered for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. The goal here is for the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to mingle beautifully.

Step 3: Add the Shrimp

With your sauce rich and inviting, lay the shrimp into the pan in a single layer. Nestle them into the sauce so they’re well-coated, then simmer for just 3-4 minutes, turning once. You’ll see the shrimp turn that classic pink and curl up — be careful not to overcook them! Tender is the name of the game.

Step 4: Finish with Feta and Herbs

Scatter a generous amount of crumbled feta over the shrimp and tomato mixture. If you like, add a pinch of red pepper flakes here too. Pop a lid on the skillet to help the feta soften slightly — a couple of minutes is all it takes. Before serving, shower the dish with a handful of chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

How to Serve Shrimp Saganaki Recipe

Garnishes

A flourish of freshly chopped parsley and a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil right before serving not only look stunning but brighten the flavors. You can also finish with a few more crumbles of feta or even a twist of fresh black pepper if you’re feeling fancy!

Side Dishes

The Shrimp Saganaki Recipe practically begs for crusty bread — think thick slices of sourdough or a chewy baguette to mop up that magical sauce. If you want to round out the meal, consider simple sides like a crisp Greek salad, lemony roasted potatoes, or steamed rice.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve Shrimp Saganaki Recipe straight from the skillet at the center of your table for a rustic, communal vibe. For appetizers, spoon portions onto crostini, or use small clay baking dishes for individual servings. It’s even elegant enough to serve in martini glasses as a playful party starter!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftovers from your Shrimp Saganaki Recipe cool to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to two days, and the flavors often deepen beautifully overnight.

Freezing

It’s best to freeze just the tomato-feta sauce (without shrimp), as shrimp can get rubbery when thawed and reheated. Store the cooled sauce in airtight containers for up to 2 months, then add fresh shrimp when you’re ready to enjoy.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the leftovers in a skillet over low to medium heat. If needed, add a splash of water to loosen the sauce. Take care not to overcook the shrimp — just heat through until warmed to your liking.

FAQs

Can I substitute the ouzo with something else?

Absolutely! If you prefer not to use ouzo, you can simply skip it or use a splash of dry white wine. Or, for extra anise flavor, a pinch of fennel seeds added with the onions does the trick.

Is it possible to make Shrimp Saganaki Recipe dairy-free?

Yes! For a dairy-free version, simply omit the feta or substitute with your favorite plant-based cheese. The rich tomato sauce will still carry the dish beautifully.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Frozen shrimp are a great shortcut. Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry to avoid watering down the sauce.

What type of feta cheese works best?

Look for a good-quality Greek feta, preferably made from sheep’s or goat’s milk — it melts perfectly and provides the authentic tang that defines the Shrimp Saganaki Recipe.

How spicy is this dish?

The base recipe is mild with a bit of tang, but you can easily raise the heat by adding more red pepper flakes. Adjust to your taste!

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something cozy yet special, I can’t recommend this Shrimp Saganaki Recipe enough. It’s unfussy, deeply flavorful, and totally satisfying. Bring a taste of Greece to your kitchen and enjoy the comfort of sharing this dish with friends or family!

Shrimp Saganaki Recipe