Name: Florida Shrimp Pie
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Shrimp, peeled and deveined (Large shrimp work best); 1 cup Heavy cream; 1 cup Shredded cheddar cheese; 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning; 1 tbsp Butter; 1 package Pie crust (Use your favorite store-bought or homemade crust)

Okay, picture this: a flaky, golden crust embracing a creamy, savory filling bursting with sweet Florida shrimp. That’s my family’s beloved Florida Shrimp Pie. It’s a dish that instantly transports me back to sunny afternoons spent on the coast, the salty breeze in my hair, and the joyful chatter of loved ones around the table. It’s like a quiche, but way more exciting and definitely with a little Southern charm thrown in! I swear, this Florida Shrimp Pie is so good, it’ll have everyone begging for the recipe. I’ve even had picky eaters devour it, which is a small miracle in itself! This recipe truly captures the essence of Florida in a dish – the sweetness of the shrimp, the creaminess of the filling, and a hint of something special that makes it simply irresistible.

What is Florida Shrimp Pie?

Florida Shrimp Pie, at its heart, is a savory pie featuring the star ingredient: fresh, succulent Florida shrimp. Think of it as a creamy shrimp casserole, but elevated to a whole new level with a buttery, flaky pie crust. It’s essentially a rich and decadent filling made with shrimp, cheese, cream, and seasonings, all baked inside a perfectly golden crust. The name “pie” might be a bit misleading because it’s definitely not sweet. It’s a savory delight, perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a special brunch. I always imagine this pie being served at a fancy seaside restaurant, but trust me, it’s surprisingly easy to make at home!

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Honestly, where do I even begin? The flavor of this Florida Shrimp Pie is just incredible. You get the natural sweetness of the Florida shrimp perfectly balanced by the creamy, cheesy filling. It’s rich, but not heavy, and every bite is just a little explosion of flavor. And the crust? Oh, the crust! It’s flaky, buttery, and provides the perfect textural contrast to the smooth filling.

But beyond the taste, this recipe is surprisingly easy. Don’t let the word “pie” intimidate you. It’s much simpler than baking a traditional sweet pie. Seriously, if I can make it on a busy weeknight, anyone can!

What I love most about this is how adaptable it is. You can easily customize the filling with your favorite cheeses, veggies, or spices. I sometimes add a sprinkle of Old Bay seasoning for an extra kick. It’s also a great way to use up leftover cooked shrimp. Plus, the ingredients are relatively budget-friendly, especially if you can find shrimp on sale. This Florida Shrimp Pie is a total winner compared to many other seafood dishes because you get a luxurious, flavorful experience without breaking the bank. It’s similar to a seafood Pot Pie, but I find the crust on this one is lighter and flakier. Trust me, you’ll want to make this again and again!

How do I make Florida Shrimp Pie?

Quick Overview

Making this Florida Shrimp Pie is easier than you might think! It involves creating a simple pie crust, preparing a creamy shrimp filling, and then baking it all together until golden and bubbly. The best part? You can even use a store-bought crust if you’re short on time. This is seriously one of my go-to recipes when I need something impressive but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. It’s really all about layering the flavors and then letting the oven do its magic!

Ingredients

For the Pie Crust: What are some examples?
* 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: I like to use unbleached flour for the best flavor and texture. * 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors of the crust. * 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes: Make sure the butter is VERY cold! What is the best way to make a flaky crust? Add it gradually until the dough comes together. Don’t overdo it!

For the Filling:
* 1 pound Florida shrimp, peeled and deveined: Fresh is best, but frozen (thawed) works too! Make sure to pat them dry before cooking.
* 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the shrimp.
* 1/2 cup chopped onion: Adds a savory base to the filling.
* 2 cloves garlic, minced: Because everything’s better with garlic!
* 1/2 cup chopped celery: Adds a nice texture and flavor.
* 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper: For a touch of sweetness and color.
* 3 tablespoons butter: Because everything tastes better with butter!
* 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: To thicken the sauce.
* 2 cups milk: I’ve even used unsweetened almond milk, and it works great!
* 1/2 cup heavy cream: For extra richness.
* 1/2 teaspoon salt: Season to taste.
* 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper: Season to taste.
* 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): For a little kick!
* 1/2 cup grated Gruyere cheese: Adds a nutty, savory flavor.
* 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese: For a classic cheesy flavor.
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: Adds a touch of freshness.

What are the steps to

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven warms up, grease a 9-inch pie dish. I like to use butter or cooking spray. This will prevent the crust from sticking. Make the pie dish ready before you make the crust – it just makes everything smoother!

Step 2: Make the Pie Crust

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Set aside. Is it necessary to cut the butter in a pastry blender until it resembles coarse powder? What is the key here is to keep the butter cold, so work quickly! This helps create those flaky layers. Add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together.

Step 3: Roll Out the Crust

How do you shape dough into a disc? Wrap it in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. How does gluten relax, making it easier to roll out? After chilling, roll out dough into a circle slightly larger than your pie dish. Gently transfer it to the prepared pie dish and trim the edges. Crimp the corners to seal. Use a fork or your fingers to create decorative edges.

Step 4: Par-Bake the Crust

Line the pie crust with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dried beans. How do you prevent a crust from puffing up during baking? Remove the parchment paper and pie weights and bake for another 5-10 minutes, or until the crust is crispy. Is there a This par-baking step ensures that the bottom crust is fully cooked and crispy.

Step 5: Prepare the Shrimp Filling

While the crust is par-baking, prepare the shrimp filling. In a large skillet, heat the Olive Oil over medium heat. Add the chopped tomatoes and cook for 5 minutes. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 3-5 minutes. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 6: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Remove from heat and set aside. Add the onion, garlic, celery, and red bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly. Cook until the sauce has thickened, about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).

Step 7: Assemble the Pie

Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the Gruyere cheese, Parmesan, and chopped parsley. Stir until well combined. How do you pour the filling into a pie crust?

Step 8: Bake the Pie

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is bubbly and the crust is golden brown.

Step 9: Cool & Serve

Let the pie cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the filling to set slightly.

What should I serve it with?

What is the best Florida Shrimp Pie? What areFor Breakfast:Serve with a side of fresh fruit salad and strong coffee. What is a good combination of sweetness and sourness in this pie?For Brunch:Dress it up with mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette. Add a glass of Prosecco or Mimosa for an elegant brunch.As Dinner:Serve with steamed asparagus or Green Beans with lemon butter. What makes a good pie? What is a good white wine to pair with Sauvignon Blanc?For Cozy Snacks:What is a good pie to eat warm? I love pairing it with a creamy tomato soup or steamed green salad. Growing up, my grandma always served this with a big bowl of coleslaw. What is the best combination of coleslaw and pie? What is the best combination What are some of the best sides to serve with Florida shrimp pie?

How do I make a Florida shrimp pie?

After making this Florida Shrimp Pie countless times, I’ve learned a few tricks that I am happy with.Shrimp Prep:Make sure to pat the shrimp completely dry before sautéing them. How do I stop my baby from steaming? Overcooked shrimp are rubbery, so don’t overcook them!Mixing Advice:When making pie crust, don’t overmix the dough. If you overmix gluten, you will get a tough crust. Mix until just combined.What are the best cheeseFeel free to experiment with different cheeses in the filling. What are some good substitutes for Parmesan cheese? I have even used smoked gouda for a smoky taste.Spice it Up:If you like a little heat, add some red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the filling.Ingredient Swaps:If you don’t have heavy cream, you can use half-and-half or milk in a pinch. The filling might not be quite as rich, but it will still be delicious.baking tips: If the crust starts to brown too quickly during baking, tent it with foil.

Glaze Variations:Although this recipe doesn’t have a glaze, you can brush the crust with an egg wash before baking. For a beautiful golden shine. Don’t skip the chilling step for pie crust. I know some people who do this. What makes a difference in the final texture? Don’t be afraid to get creative with the filling. I once added some Roasted Corn and black beans, and it was amazing!

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you happen to have any leftover Florida Shrimp Pie (which is rare!), here’s how to store it:

Room Temperature: You can leave the pie at room temperature for up to 2 hours. After that, it’s best to refrigerate it. Make sure to cover it loosely with foil or plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.

Refrigerator Storage: Store the pie in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Keep it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness and prevent it from absorbing odors.

Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the pie for up to 2-3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil.

Reheating Tips: To reheat the pie, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pie on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual slices in the microwave, but the crust might not be as crispy.

I usually let the pie cool completely before storing it. This helps prevent condensation from forming, which can make the crust soggy. And if you’re freezing the pie, make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, you can! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the crust. You may need to add a little more water to get the dough to come together. For the filling, make sure the flour you use to thicken the sauce is also gluten-free.

Do I need to peel the shrimp?

Yes, you’ll want to peel and devein the shrimp before cooking them. This just makes the pie easier and more enjoyable to eat.

Can I add vegetables to the filling?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the filling. Some good options include mushrooms, spinach, or asparagus. Just make sure to cook them before adding them to the filling.

How can I prevent the crust from getting soggy?

Par-baking the crust is the best way to prevent it from getting soggy. You can also brush the bottom of the crust with a beaten egg white before adding the filling.

What can I use instead of Gruyere cheese?

If you don’t have Gruyere cheese, you can use Swiss cheese or a combination of Swiss and Parmesan cheese.

Final Thoughts

This Florida Shrimp Pie is more than just a recipe to me; it’s a slice of sunshine, a taste of home, and a reminder of cherished memories. It’s perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with a delicious and unique dish. This pie is really special, and you will have an unforgettable time. If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also love my Creamy Seafood Casserole or my Shrimp Scampi with Linguine. Both are equally delicious and easy to make. I truly hope you give this Florida Shrimp Pie a try. Once you taste that first bite of flaky crust and creamy shrimp filling, you’ll be hooked. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Share your photos and variations in the comments below, and don’t forget to rate the recipe if you loved it!

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