Florida Shrimp Pie
Step into a world of coastal charm with this Florida Shrimp Pie—a dish that perfectly balances the freshness of the sea with the comfort of a homemade pie. This savory delight features succulent shrimp enveloped in a tangy, creamy sauce, accented with just the right amount of spice and finished with a golden, flaky crust. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this pie promises to bring a taste of Florida’s vibrant flavors to your table. Trust me, you’re in for a treat!
Why You’ll Love Florida Shrimp Pie
Versatile
Great as a show-stopping main dish or an elegant starter that sets the tone for any meal.
Budget-Friendly
Simple, fresh ingredients come together to create a luxurious dish without a hefty price tag.
Quick and Easy
While it feels gourmet, the straightforward steps make this pie a breeze to prepare.
Customizable
Tweak the spice level or add your favorite herbs to give it your personal touch.
Crowd-Pleasing
The perfect mix of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors makes it a hit with seafood lovers of all ages.
Ingredients
Ingredients in Florida Shrimp Pie
Here’s what makes this pie so special—a harmonious blend of fresh shrimp, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, creamy sauce, all encased in a delicious crust.
Shrimp
Fresh, peeled, and deveined shrimp that deliver a burst of ocean-fresh flavor in every bite.
Butter
For sautéing and adding a velvety richness to the filling.
Onion
Finely chopped to provide a savory foundation.
Garlic
Minced to infuse the dish with aromatic warmth.
Celery
Adds a subtle crunch and freshness that balances the creaminess.
Bell Pepper
For a pop of color and a hint of sweetness.
Heavy Cream
Creates a luxuriously smooth sauce that ties all the flavors together.
Lemon Juice
A splash of citrus to brighten the dish and enhance the seafood flavor.
Old Bay Seasoning
A classic blend of spices that adds depth and a touch of heat.
Salt and Pepper
Essential for perfectly balancing the flavors.
Pie Crust or Puff Pastry
A flaky, golden topping that transforms the dish into a comforting, indulgent pie.
Instructions
Preheat Your Equipment
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure a perfect, golden finish on your crust.
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, celery, and bell pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Cook the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the skillet and sprinkle in the Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sauté just until the shrimp turn pink—about 3 to 4 minutes. They’ll finish cooking later, so be careful not to overcook them at this stage.
Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and add a generous squeeze of lemon juice. Stir well to combine, letting the sauce come together. Allow the mixture to simmer for a couple of minutes so that the flavors meld beautifully.
Prepare Your Crust
Roll out your pie crust or puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Transfer it into a pie dish, gently pressing it into place along the edges. Trim any excess dough for a neat finish.
Assemble the Pie
Pour the shrimp and vegetable mixture into the prepared pie crust, ensuring an even distribution of the creamy sauce. If you have any remaining sauce, drizzle it over the top for extra richness.
Bake to Perfection
Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. The aroma will fill your kitchen with a tantalizing promise of the delicious meal to come.
Finishing Touches
Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This resting time allows the filling to set, making for cleaner, more satisfying slices.
Serve and Enjoy
Cut generous slices and serve warm. This pie pairs wonderfully with a crisp side salad or a light citrus vinaigrette to complement its rich, creamy flavors.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 8
Calories per serving: 320
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
How to Serve Florida Shrimp Pie
This pie is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving ideas:
- Pair it with a fresh, mixed green salad for a delightful contrast.
- Serve alongside steamed vegetables or a light slaw to balance the richness.
- Drizzle a little extra lemon juice over the top for an extra burst of brightness.
- Enjoy with a chilled glass of white wine to elevate your dining experience.
Additional Tips
- Make It Ahead: Prepare the filling in advance and refrigerate. Assemble the pie just before baking for a stress-free meal.
- Texture Variation: If you prefer a crunchier topping, try adding a layer of breadcrumbs mixed with a little melted butter on top of the filling.
- Spice It Up: Increase the Old Bay seasoning or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for those who love a bit more heat.
- Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
- Crust Options: Feel free to experiment with different types of crusts, such as a biscuit topping, for a unique twist.
FAQ’s
1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
2. Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a mix of milk and a little flour, though the texture might be slightly lighter.
3. Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the filling in advance, refrigerate, and then assemble the pie just before baking.
4. How do I ensure the crust stays flaky?
Keep the dough cold and handle it as little as possible. Chilling the assembled pie for 15 minutes before baking can also help.
5. What can I serve with this pie?
It pairs well with a crisp salad, steamed vegetables, or a light citrus slaw.
6. Can I add other seafood to this pie?
Yes, you can mix in crab meat or scallops for an extra seafood twist.
7. How do I adjust the seasoning?
Taste the filling before assembling the pie and adjust salt, pepper, and Old Bay seasoning to your preference.
8. Can I make a gluten-free version?
Yes, substitute the crust with a gluten-free pastry or use a homemade gluten-free crust recipe.
9. What if my pie filling seems too runny?
Let the filling simmer a bit longer to reduce or add a slurry of flour and water to thicken it slightly.
10. How can I reheat leftovers without drying them out?
Reheat in a covered dish in the oven at a low temperature, or microwave with a damp paper towel over each slice.
Conclusion
This Florida Shrimp Pie offers a delightful escape to the coast with every bite—a perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors wrapped in a golden crust. Whether it’s a family dinner or a special occasion, this pie is sure to impress and become a cherished favorite. Enjoy the taste of Florida and savor every delicious moment!
PrintFlorida Shrimp Pie
A savory coastal delight that captures the fresh flavors of Florida shrimp with zesty seasonings and a creamy, cheesy filling. This pie is perfect as a light dinner or brunch option that brings a taste of the coast to your table.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern/Coastal
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 ready-made pie crust (or homemade, if preferred)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, mix together the shrimp, shredded cheddar, cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Gently fold in the diced celery and chopped parsley.
- Transfer the mixture into the pie crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top turns lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let the pie cool for a few minutes before serving. Optionally, garnish with extra parsley and lemon wedges.
Notes
- For the best flavor, use fresh shrimp. If using frozen shrimp, be sure to thaw and pat them dry thoroughly.
- This dish can also be enjoyed chilled as a refreshing seafood salad pie.
- Adjust the seasonings according to your taste preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
