If you have a love for seafood that bursts with fresh, vibrant flavors, then you’re going to adore this Florida Shrimp Pie Recipe. It’s a delightful twist on classic pie that brings together succulent shrimp, creamy cheese, and a medley of aromatic herbs and spices, all baked into a flaky, buttery crust. This dish not only celebrates the sunny essence of Florida’s coast but also offers a comforting, satisfying meal perfect for family dinners or impressing guests with minimal fuss. Once you try this Florida Shrimp Pie Recipe, it might just become your next go-to recipe for a delicious seafood indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Florida Shrimp Pie Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing an essential role in crafting a dish that’s both rich and refreshing. From the tender shrimp to the tangy lemon juice and fragrant dill, the flavors combine to create a perfect harmony that’s hard to resist.
- 1 lb fresh large shrimp: Peeled and deveined for the best texture and taste—freshness is key here.
- 1 store-bought or homemade pie crust: Provides a flaky, buttery base that holds all the delicious filling.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- 1 cup bell pepper, chopped (any color): Brings a crisp, vibrant crunch and a pop of color.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the pie with a warm, aromatic punch.
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped: Offers a refreshing herbal note that complements seafood perfectly.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates a luscious, creamy texture that binds the ingredients.
- 2 tbsp lemon juice: Adds brightness and balances the richness wonderfully.
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey, flavorful goodness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
- 2 tsp Old Bay seasoning: Brings that iconic coastal spice flair, elevating the entire dish.
How to Make Florida Shrimp Pie Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready while you prepare the filling. This ensures your pie bakes evenly and the crust turns perfectly golden brown.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a skillet over medium heat, melt a bit of butter and add your chopped onion and bell peppers. Cook them gently until they soften and release their natural sweetness, creating a tasty base for the shrimp.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp and Garlic
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp along with minced garlic to the pan. Stir frequently as you cook until the shrimp turn an inviting pink, about 3 to 5 minutes, which means they’re perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor.
Step 4: Whisk the Creamy Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, lemon juice, chopped dill, salt, pepper, and Old Bay seasoning. This creamy mixture will tie all your ingredients together and bring the signature flavor to the Florida Shrimp Pie Recipe.
Step 5: Combine with Cheese
Mix in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese into your cream mixture until it starts to melt, adding a velvety richness that you’ll adore in every bite.
Step 6: Assemble the Pie
Pour the cooked shrimp and vegetable mixture into your pie crust, then pour over the creamy cheese mixture, ensuring an even spread so each slice is packed with flavor.
Step 7: Bake
Bake your pie for about 30 to 35 minutes or until the crust is beautifully golden brown and the filling is bubbling invisibly under that mouthwatering crust—this is when your kitchen will smell absolutely irresistible.
Step 8: Let It Cool
Once out of the oven, allow the pie to cool slightly before serving. This helps the filling set just enough to hold its shape without losing any of its lusciousness.
How to Serve Florida Shrimp Pie Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh dill sprigs or a sprinkle of finely chopped green onions make excellent garnishes to brighten the look and add an extra layer of fresh flavor to your Florida Shrimp Pie Recipe. A light dusting of paprika can also add a subtle smoky hint and appealing color contrast.
Side Dishes
Pair this savory pie with simple, crisp side salads dressed with a zesty vinaigrette or garlic roasted asparagus for a well-rounded meal that complements the rich seafood flavors without overwhelming them.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual mini shrimp pies in ramekins for a personalized touch at your next dinner party, or slice and arrange the pie on a wooden board with lemon wedges and colorful fresh herbs for a rustic, festive presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, cover the Florida Shrimp Pie securely and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, preserving its flavor and texture for quick, satisfying meals.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap the pie tightly in foil and plastic wrap before freezing to protect the crust from freezer burn. When properly stored, it can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing its signature taste and quality.
Reheating
Reheat leftover pie slices in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes to restore crispness to the crust and melt the cheese filling back to that delightful creamy consistency. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the crust flaky.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for the Florida Shrimp Pie Recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp can work well—just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the pie filling, which could make the crust soggy.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk combined with a bit of flour to maintain the thick texture. Just keep in mind it won’t be as rich, but the dish will still be delicious.
Is this pie suitable for freezing before baking?
Absolutely! Assemble the pie but don’t bake it. Cover tightly and freeze. When ready to enjoy, bake it straight from the freezer, adding extra baking time to ensure it cooks through evenly.
How spicy is the Old Bay seasoning in this recipe?
Old Bay seasoning adds a mild, aromatic spice with a hint of heat that enhances the shrimp without overwhelming the other flavors. You can adjust the amount to suit your spice preference.
Can this Florida Shrimp Pie Recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes, by using a gluten-free pie crust, you can enjoy this dish without gluten. Just ensure all other ingredients, especially seasoning blends, are gluten-free certified.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Florida Shrimp Pie Recipe that brings seaside charm right to your table with every bite. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and offers comforting richness balanced by fresh, bright accents. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a beloved classic in your own kitchen—it’s a dish that’s sure to impress everyone you share it with!
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Florida Shrimp Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Florida Coastal
Description
Florida Shrimp Pie is a savory seafood dish featuring succulent shrimp sautéed with onions, bell peppers, and garlic, combined with a creamy, dill-infused cheddar cheese sauce, all baked to golden perfection in a buttery pie crust. This comforting and flavorful recipe captures the essence of Florida coastal cuisine, making a delicious main dish perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Seafood and Pie
- 1 lb fresh large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 store-bought or homemade pie crust
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 cup bell pepper, chopped (any color)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
Dairy and Seasoning
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tsp Old Bay seasoning
- 2 tbsp butter (added based on cooking instruction step 2 for sautéing)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the shrimp pie.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sauté the chopped onions and bell peppers until they soften and become fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Cook Shrimp and Garlic: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp alongside the minced garlic into the skillet and cook until the shrimp turns pink and opaque, approximately 3 to 5 minutes.
- Make Cream Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, lemon juice, chopped dill, salt, pepper, and Old Bay seasoning to create a flavorful sauce base.
- Add Cheese: Mix in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese to the cream mixture until it is combined and slightly melted.
- Assemble Pie: Spoon the shrimp and vegetable mixture into the prepared pie crust evenly, then pour the creamy cheese sauce over the filling ensuring it is well distributed.
- Bake Pie: Bake the assembled pie in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly and set.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before slicing and serving to maximize flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can use any color bell pepper based on your preference or what’s available.
- Make sure shrimp is fresh or properly thawed if previously frozen for best taste and texture.
- If preferred, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version, although the pie may be less rich.
- Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Old Bay seasoning gives the pie a distinctive seafood flavor characteristic of coastal cuisine.
- Ensure the pie crust edges are well sealed to prevent leakage of creamy filling during baking.
