Florida Shrimp Pie
Florida Shrimp Pie is a delightful dish that bursts with flavor and coastal charm, transporting you straight to sunny shores with each bite. This savory pie is a perfect balance of succulent shrimp and rich, creamy filling, all encased in a buttery crust that will make your taste buds dance with joy. The combination of shrimp, spices, and fresh herbs culminates in a dish that not only satisfies the palate but warms the soul. If you’re searching for a comforting recipe that’s sure to impress friends and family, keep reading for a step-by-step guide that will make cooking this seafood sensation a breeze!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Florida Shrimp Pie checks all the boxes for an ideal meal: it’s easy to prepare, family-friendly, and speaks to both traditional and modern palates. With minimal ingredients, it comes together quickly, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or special occasions. The pie is a comforting dish that combines flavors of the sea with the warmth of home, making it perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners alike.
Ingredients for Florida Shrimp Pie
To create this delectable Florida Shrimp Pie, you’ll need the following ingredients that will bring richness and zest to your dish:
- 2 pre-made pie crusts (or homemade for the more adventurous)
- 1 egg (for egg wash, lending a beautiful golden hue)
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled, deveined & chopped (the star of the show)
- 1/2 cup diced onion (adds sweetness and depth)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (for that aromatic kick)
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper (adds a colorful crunch)
- 1/2 cup chopped mushrooms (optional, for an earthy note)
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter (to create a rich base)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (to thicken the filling)
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream (or whole milk, for creaminess)
- 1/2 cup seafood or chicken broth (enhances the flavors beautifully)
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning (for that iconic seafood flavor)
- 1/2 tsp salt (to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper (to kick it up a notch)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (brightens the dish)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for a fresh finish)
Step-by-Step Directions
Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out one of your pie crusts into a 9-inch pie dish. Prick the bottom gently with a fork to prevent bubbling, then set it aside as you prepare your filling.
Cook the Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, bell pepper, and optional mushrooms. Sauté these ingredients for about 3-4 minutes until softened. After that, sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir for 1 minute to eliminate any raw flour taste from the mix. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and seafood broth, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens. Season with Old Bay seasoning, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Finally, add the chopped shrimp and cook for an additional 3 minutes until they are just pink. Remove from heat and stir in fresh parsley.
Assemble the Pie: Pour the rich shrimp filling into the prepared crust, spreading it evenly. Cover the filling with the second pie crust, sealing the edges well. Crimp with a fork and cut small slits on top for steam to escape. Brush the top crust with a beaten egg for a glossy, golden finish.
Bake to Perfection: Place your pie in the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crisp. Once baked, let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing to allow the filling to set.
Serve & Enjoy: Slice the pie and serve warm, accompanied by fresh lemon wedges and a sprinkle of extra parsley for garnish.
Tips & Tricks
To elevate your Florida Shrimp Pie to the next level, consider these chef’s secrets and hacks:
- Fresh Shrimp: Whenever possible, opt for fresh shrimp that you can source locally. It contributes a much richer flavor compared to frozen varieties.
- Prep Ahead: You can prepare the filling a day in advance, making weeknight cooking even simpler.
- Add Heat: For spice lovers, incorporating diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling can provide a wonderful kick.
- Fancy Touches: Consider adding a handful of grated cheese, like mozzarella or cheddar, to the filling for added creaminess.
- Make it Unique: Feel free to customize the filling with other seafood, such as crab or scallops, to suit your taste preferences.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
For a delightful dining experience, serve your Florida Shrimp Pie with a fresh green salad, tossed in a light vinaigrette. A side of garlic bread or buttery cornbread would complement the pie beautifully. You could also present it alongside a fruit platter for a refreshing contrast or even pair it with a crisp white wine for adults, enhancing the overall experience of this delectable shrimp pie.
Nutritional Information
While indulging in Florida Shrimp Pie, it’s good to keep track of the nutritional aspects. Each slice typically has approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the crust and portion size. This pie is a rich source of protein from the shrimp and offers essential vitamins from the vegetables, making it a delicious but indulgent treat perfect for sharing with loved ones. Keep in mind, moderation is key!
Storing Tips & Variations for Florida Shrimp Pie
To store your delicious Florida Shrimp Pie, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy it later, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. If you’re looking for some healthier swaps, consider using whole wheat crust or substituting half of the heavy cream with Greek yogurt. Variations could include using different seafood, like crab or a mix of seafood, to create your own twist on this classic recipe.
Conclusion for Florida Shrimp Pie
Florida Shrimp Pie is a dish that might just become your new favorite! Its warm, inviting flavors and easy preparation make it an absolute winner for family dinners and entertaining guests. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and dive into this coastal culinary delight today!
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before adding to the filling.
2. Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply use a gluten-free pie crust and substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
3. Can I make the filling in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the filling a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just assemble and bake the next day!
4. What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use whole milk or half-and-half as a lighter alternative, but the creaminess will be slightly less.
5. How long does Florida Shrimp Pie last in the refrigerator?
This pie can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator when stored properly.
Florida Shrimp Pie
Ingredients
For the crust
- 2 pieces pre-made pie crusts or homemade for the more adventurous
- 1 piece egg for egg wash, lending a beautiful golden hue
For the filling
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled, deveined & chopped the star of the show
- 1/2 cup diced onion adds sweetness and depth
- 3 cloves garlic, minced for that aromatic kick
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper adds a colorful crunch
- 1/2 cup chopped mushrooms optional, for an earthy note
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter to create a rich base
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour to thicken the filling
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream or whole milk, for creaminess
- 1/2 cup seafood or chicken broth enhances the flavors beautifully
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning for that iconic seafood flavor
- 1/2 tsp salt to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper to kick it up a notch
- 1 tbsp lemon juice brightens the dish
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped for a fresh finish
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out one of your pie crusts into a 9-inch pie dish. Prick the bottom gently with a fork to prevent bubbling, then set it aside as you prepare your filling.
Cooking the Filling
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, bell pepper, and optional mushrooms. Sauté these ingredients for about 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir for 1 minute to eliminate any raw flour taste from the mix.
- Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and seafood broth, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens.
- Season with Old Bay seasoning, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Add the chopped shrimp and cook for an additional 3 minutes until they are just pink. Remove from heat and stir in fresh parsley.
Assembling the Pie
- Pour the rich shrimp filling into the prepared crust, spreading it evenly. Cover the filling with the second pie crust, sealing the edges well.
- Crimp with a fork and cut small slits on top for steam to escape. Brush the top crust with a beaten egg for a glossy, golden finish.
Baking
- Place your pie in the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crisp.
- Once baked, let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing to allow the filling to set.
Serving
- Slice the pie and serve warm, accompanied by fresh lemon wedges and a sprinkle of extra parsley for garnish.

