If you’re craving a dish that perfectly combines the fresh flavors of the sea with comforting, cheesy goodness, you’ve just found it in this Florida Shrimp Pie Recipe. Imagine tender, juicy shrimp nestled in a creamy, herbed filling, all wrapped up in a flaky, golden pie crust that bakes up beautifully in under an hour. This recipe is a celebration of simple ingredients coming together in a way that’s both elegant and homey, making it a standout favorite whether for a casual family dinner or when you want to impress friends with a taste of coastal sunshine.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Florida Shrimp Pie Recipe plays a big role in creating the perfect balance of flavors, textures, and colors. From the delicate sweetness of shrimp to the sharp bite of cheddar and fragrant dill, these choices make the pie both vibrant and satisfying.
- Fresh large shrimp (1 lb): The star of the dish, peeled and deveined for easy cooking and eating.
- Pie crust (1 store-bought or homemade): Provides a buttery, flaky vessel that holds all the delicious filling.
- Onion (1 medium, chopped): Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed to soften.
- Bell pepper (1 cup, chopped): Adds colorful crunch and a mild, fresh flavor; any color works.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Brings a warm, aromatic punch that complements the shrimp perfectly.
- Fresh dill (1/4 cup, chopped): A bright herb that lends a coastal touch and subtle complexity.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Creates a rich, silky texture that binds the filling together.
- Lemon juice (2 tbsp): Adds a refreshing zing that brightens the creamy filling.
- Sharp cheddar cheese (1 cup, shredded): Melts into the filling, offering a tangy, gooey richness.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings that enhance every ingredient.
- Old Bay seasoning (2 tsp): Instantly evokes coastal flavors with its aromatic blend of spices.
How to Make Florida Shrimp Pie Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that once your pie is ready to bake, the oven is perfectly hot to give that beautiful golden crust you’re aiming for.
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
Melt some butter in a skillet over medium heat, then add the chopped onions and bell peppers. Cook them gently until they become soft and fragrant, releasing sweet and savory aromas that hint at the delicious pie ahead.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp and Garlic
Next, toss in the shrimp and minced garlic. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp turns a lovely shade of pink and the garlic becomes golden, filling your kitchen with mouthwatering scents.
Step 4: Whisk the Creamy Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, lemon juice, fresh dill, salt, pepper, and Old Bay seasoning. This blend is the magic that brings a silky, zesty creaminess to the filling and perfectly complements the shrimp.
Step 5: Melt in the Cheese
Add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese to the cream mixture and stir until it melts smoothly into the sauce, creating a luscious base that will coat every bite of shrimp and veggies in pure comfort.
Step 6: Assemble the Pie
Place your pie crust in a baking dish if it’s not already in one, then spoon the shrimp and vegetable mixture evenly into the crust. Pour the creamy cheese sauce over the top, making sure everything is nicely covered and ready for baking.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Slide the assembled pie into the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling gently, sending irresistible smells wafting through your kitchen.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Let the Florida Shrimp Pie rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the filling set slightly, making it easier to slice, while also letting the flavors meld beautifully before you dig in.
How to Serve Florida Shrimp Pie Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh dill or a few thin lemon slices on top adds a fresh, vibrant pop of color and flavor. A light dusting of paprika or crushed Old Bay seasoning can also enhance the presentation and tie back to the pie’s distinctive taste.
Side Dishes
This pie pairs wonderfully with crisp, refreshing sides like a classic garden salad, steamed green beans, or even a tangy coleslaw. These sides bring a contrast in texture and lighten the richness of the pie, creating a balanced meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the pie in individual ramekins for a charming, personalized touch. Alternatively, cut it into smaller squares and offer them as party appetizers—each bite bursting with shrimp and creamy cheddar goodness that everyone will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Refrigerate any leftover Florida Shrimp Pie tightly covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It’s best eaten within 2 to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked pie, wrapped well in foil or plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe container. To enjoy later, defrost it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
For reheating, choose the oven over the microwave for the best texture. Warm the pie at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through and the crust regains its crispness.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this Florida Shrimp Pie Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the filling.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or even whole milk, but keep in mind that the filling won’t be quite as rich or creamy without the heavy cream.
Can I add other seafood to the pie?
Feel free to experiment! Scallops or crab meat work wonderfully alongside or instead of shrimp, adding exciting layers to this classic recipe.
How spicy is the Old Bay seasoning in this dish?
Old Bay has a gentle warmth with hints of paprika, celery salt, and other spices—it adds flavor without overwhelming heat, making it perfect for those who enjoy subtle spice.
Can I make this pie crust from scratch?
Definitely! A homemade flaky pie crust adds a lovely personal touch, but store-bought crust is a convenient and tasty option that saves time.
Final Thoughts
This Florida Shrimp Pie Recipe is a treasure from the coast that’s truly accessible for any cook eager to bring a bit of seaside comfort to the table. With its rich flavors, satisfying textures, and friendly preparation, it’s one of those dishes that you’ll keep reaching for whenever you want to make an ordinary day feel a little more special. So go ahead, gather your ingredients and give it a try—you’re in for a delicious experience that’s as heartwarming as it is scrumptious.
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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
Description
Florida Shrimp Pie is a savory, creamy seafood dish featuring fresh shrimp, bell peppers, and aromatic dill baked in a flaky pie crust. This rich and flavorful pie combines tender sautéed shrimp with sharp cheddar cheese and a hint of lemon, perfectly seasoned with Old Bay and baked to golden perfection. Ideal for a coastal-inspired meal, this pie is both comforting and elegant.
Ingredients
Shrimp Filling
- 1 lb fresh large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 cup bell pepper, chopped (any color)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tsp Old Bay seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Other Ingredients
- 1 store-bought or homemade pie crust
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Butter for sautéing (approx. 1-2 tbsp)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the pie.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sauté the chopped onions and bell peppers until they are softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
- Cook Shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp along with minced garlic to the skillet; cook until the shrimp turns pink and is cooked through, about 3-5 minutes.
- Prepare Cream Mixture: In a bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, lemon juice, fresh dill, salt, pepper, and Old Bay seasoning to create a flavorful custard base.
- Melt Cheese: Mix the shredded sharp cheddar cheese into the cream mixture until it is evenly incorporated and starts to melt slightly.
- Assemble Pie: Spoon the shrimp and vegetable mixture into the prepared pie crust, then pour the cream and cheese mixture evenly over the top, ensuring all ingredients are well combined.
- Bake Pie: Place the assembled pie in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes until the crust turns golden brown and the filling is set and bubbling.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool slightly to allow the filling to set, then slice and serve warm.
Notes
- You can prepare the pie crust from scratch or use a quality store-bought crust for convenience.
- Feel free to substitute cheddar with a similar sharp cheese if preferred.
- Old Bay seasoning can be adjusted to taste depending on your preference for spice and flavor.
- Consider serving with a fresh green salad to complement the rich pie.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and enjoyed within 2-3 days, reheated gently in the oven.
