If you have a soft spot for seafood dishes that bring a burst of sunshine and flavor to your table, then this Florida Shrimp Pie Recipe is about to become your new best friend. Imagine a buttery, flaky crust wrapped around a luscious filling of tender shrimp, vibrant bell peppers, and aromatic spices, all melded together with a cheesy, eggy custard that bakes into golden perfection. This pie perfectly balances richness and freshness, capturing the essence of coastal cooking in every bite. Whether it’s a family dinner or a casual get-together, the Florida Shrimp Pie Recipe offers a joyful blend of textures and tastes that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh, and well-chosen ingredients is the secret to nailing this Florida Shrimp Pie Recipe. Each component plays a crucial role: from the flaky pie crust that holds it all, to the cheeses that add creamy depth, and the Old Bay seasoning that gives it that unmistakable coastal kick.
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust: Provides the perfect flaky base to hold all the savory goodness together.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Used for sautéing, it adds a subtle richness and helps soften the vegetables.
- ½ cup chopped onion: Brings sweetness and aromatic depth when sautéed.
- ½ cup chopped green bell pepper: Adds a gentle crunch and fresh, peppery flavor.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: A small punch of savory flavor that enhances the overall dish.
- 1 pound cooked shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped: The star ingredient, offering tender, slightly sweet seafood flavor.
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp and tangy, it melts beautifully into the filling.
- ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Creamy and mellow, it balances the cheddar perfectly.
- 3 large eggs: Combine with milk to bind the filling into a creamy custard.
- ¾ cup whole milk: Adds moisture and helps create that irresistible custard texture.
- ½ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning: Classic seafood spice blend that brings warmth and complexity.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: A touch of heat to highlight the other flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing out all the ingredients’ flavors.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Adds brightness and lifts all the savory notes.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley: For a fresh, herbal finish as a garnish.
How to Make Florida Shrimp Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Start by heating butter in a skillet over medium heat until melted. Toss in the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic, then sauté gently until everything has softened and released its lovely aromas — this usually takes about five minutes. This step builds the flavor base that will mingle beautifully with the shrimp.
Step 2: Add the Shrimp
Once your vegetables are perfectly tender, remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped, cooked shrimp. This keeps the shrimp from overcooking and preserves their succulent texture in the pie.
Step 3: Whisk the Custard Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, Old Bay seasoning, black pepper, salt, and fresh lemon juice. This creamy custard mixture will bind all the ingredients and add richness to your Florida Shrimp Pie Recipe.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
Fit your unbaked pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish and spread the shrimp and vegetable mixture evenly across the bottom. Next, generously sprinkle both the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses over the shrimp filling, ensuring an indulgent, cheesy layer that melts deliciously during baking.
Step 5: Pour the Custard and Bake
Carefully pour the egg and milk custard over the filling and cheese until it almost reaches the top of the crust. Pop the pie into a preheated oven at 375°F and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until the pie’s center is set and the top is a gorgeous golden brown hue.
Step 6: Cool and Garnish
Allow the pie to cool for 5 to 10 minutes to let the filling settle. Just before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for that pop of vibrant color and fresh flavor that makes this Florida Shrimp Pie Recipe truly shine.
How to Serve Florida Shrimp Pie Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley adds a beautiful green contrast and a mild herbal note, but you can also try a few thin lemon wedges or a dash of smoked paprika for extra visual appeal and a zesty touch.
Side Dishes
Serve your pie with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette or fresh fruit salad to brighten the meal. Light, refreshing sides balance the richness of the shrimp pie and complete a perfectly satisfying dinner.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, make mini versions in a muffin tin for individual servings, perfect for parties or appetizers. You can also serve slices alongside a chilled seafood cocktail or a chilled cucumber salad to create a full coastal-inspired spread that impresses every guest.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover Florida Shrimp Pie Recipe slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors mature beautifully, so leftovers are just as delicious.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, warm slices at 350°F in the oven for about 15 minutes. This keeps the crust crisp while gently reheating the creamy filling. Avoid microwaving to preserve the pie’s texture.
FAQs
Can I use fresh shrimp instead of cooked shrimp?
Yes, you can use fresh shrimp, but be sure to cook them first before adding to the pie. Raw shrimp would overcook during baking and may become rubbery. Simply sauté or boil them until just pink and firm, then chop.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap out the traditional pie crust with a gluten-free crust available in many stores or make your own using gluten-free flour blends to enjoy this dish without worry.
Can I substitute the cheeses?
Yes, feel free to experiment! Mozzarella can be used instead of Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for some extra spice. Just aim for a good melting cheese so the filling stays creamy.
How spicy is the Florida Shrimp Pie Recipe?
This pie has a mild spice level, thanks mainly to Old Bay seasoning. If you prefer more heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the custard mixture or sprinkle on top before baking.
What seafood alternatives work in this recipe?
You can swap shrimp for crab meat, scallops, or even a seafood mix. Each brings a slightly different texture but keeps that delicious coastal spirit.
Final Thoughts
This Florida Shrimp Pie Recipe is a delightful way to bring the coastal flavors of the Sunshine State right to your kitchen table. It feels both comforting and special, perfect for seafood lovers who want a simple yet impressive dish. Give it a try and enjoy the layers of flavor and texture that make this pie a true crowd-pleaser. Trust me, it will become one of those beloved recipes you can’t wait to share with friends and family.
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Florida Shrimp Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Florida Shrimp Pie is a savory coastal seafood dish featuring a buttery pie crust filled with sautéed shrimp, bell peppers, onions, and a rich custard of eggs, milk, and sharp cheeses, seasoned with Old Bay and fresh lemon juice. This American main course offers a flavorful and satisfying option perfect for any seafood lover’s table.
Ingredients
Pie Base and Filling
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
- 1 tablespoon butter
- ½ cup chopped onion
- ½ cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 pound cooked shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
Cheese and Custard
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 3 large eggs
- ¾ cup whole milk
- ½ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Aromatics: Preheat your oven to 375°F. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic until softened, about 5 minutes, releasing their aromas and flavors.
- Add Shrimp: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped cooked shrimp, combining the ingredients evenly to build the pie’s flavorful base.
- Mix Custard: In a separate bowl, thoroughly whisk together the eggs, whole milk, Old Bay seasoning, black pepper, salt, and fresh lemon juice to create a rich and savory custard that will bind the filling.
- Assemble the Pie: Spread the shrimp and vegetable mixture evenly over the unbaked pie crust. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses evenly over the shrimp layer. Then, carefully pour the egg custard mixture over everything, allowing it to soak through the filling and distribute evenly.
- Bake: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the custard center is set and the top develops a golden brown color, indicating it is perfectly cooked.
- Cool and Garnish: Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for 5 to 10 minutes to allow the filling to set fully. Before serving, garnish with the chopped fresh parsley for added freshness and color.
Notes
- You can substitute crab meat, scallops, or a seafood mix for the shrimp according to your preference.
- For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the custard mixture.
- This pie pairs wonderfully with a crisp side salad or fresh seasonal fruit.
