Florida Shrimp Pie is a delightful dish that brings together the fresh taste of shrimp with a flaky, buttery crust. It’s a wonderful blend of tender seafood, creamy filling, and just the right amount of seasoning that makes this pie stand out. If you love shrimp and comfort food, this pie is an easy way to bring them both to your table.
I always enjoy making this pie because it feels like a little celebration of Florida’s coastline right in my kitchen. The shrimp stays juicy and flavorful, while the creamy middle gives everything a rich, satisfying feel. One of my favorite tips is to add a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a touch of spice to give it a personal twist—it really brightens each bite.
When I serve Florida Shrimp Pie, I like pairing it with a simple green salad or some roasted veggies so the pie can shine as the star of the meal. It’s also great warm or at room temperature, making it perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers. Every time I make this dish, it brings a little taste of sunshine and good times to the table.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh shrimp give the best flavor, but you can use frozen shrimp—just thaw and pat dry before cooking. Wild-caught is great, but farmed works well too.
Cheese: A mix of cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan adds richness and stretchiness. If you prefer, swap mozzarella for Monterey Jack or fontina for a milder taste.
Pie crust: Store-bought crust saves time and works fine, but homemade crust adds a buttery, flaky touch if you have extra time. Gluten-free crust is a good choice for allergies.
Half-and-half or cream: Half-and-half offers a lighter filling; heavy cream makes it richer. You can try whole milk, but the texture will be a bit less creamy.
How Do You Cook the Shrimp Just Right Without Overcooking?
Shrimp cook quickly and get rubbery if overdone, so timing is key:
- Cook shrimp on medium heat until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan to allow even cooking and avoid steaming them.
- Remove shrimp from heat as soon as they curl into a loose “C” shape—don’t wait for a tight curl.
- Letting them cool before mixing into the filling helps maintain their texture in the pie.
By following these tips, your shrimp will stay tender and juicy inside the creamy pie filling.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9-inch pie dish – perfect for holding your pie and baking evenly.
- Skillet – for cooking the shrimp and vegetables; I like a non-stick one for easy cleanup.
- Mixing bowls – to whisk eggs and combine ingredients with ease.
- Whisk or fork – helps blend the custard mixture smoothly.
- Oven – to bake the pie until golden and set; a standard household oven works great.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use cooked crab or lobster instead of shrimp for a different seafood twist; it adds richer flavor.
- Stir in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for some extra spice—perfect if you like a bit of heat.
- Add chopped fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for a fresher, garden-inspired taste.
- Sprinkle some crumbled cooked bacon or pancetta over the filling before baking for smoky richness.
How to Make Florida Shrimp Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pie:
- 1 pre-made pie crust (9-inch)
- 1 lb fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup finely diced bell pepper (red or green)
For the Filling:
- 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for a bit of heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or thyme, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 30-35 minutes to bake. Including a few minutes to cool before serving, plan for around 50 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick enough for a cozy dinner but special enough to impress guests.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Pie Crust:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out your pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish and set it aside, ready for filling.
2. Cook the Shrimp and Veggies:
In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it’s soft and fragrant, about 3 to 4 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and diced bell pepper, cooking for another 2 minutes. Add the shrimp and cook until just pink and opaque, about 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from heat and mix in the lemon juice, paprika, cayenne (if you like a little spice), and salt and pepper. Let this mixture cool slightly so it doesn’t cook the eggs later.
3. Mix the Filling:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and half-and-half or heavy cream until smooth. Stir in the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Gently fold in the cooled shrimp and vegetable mixture, making sure everything is combined evenly.
4. Assemble and Bake:
Pour the filling evenly into the prepared pie crust. Place the pie on the middle rack of your oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
5. Cool and Serve:
Take the pie out of the oven and let it cool for 5 to 10 minutes—that way, it slices neatly. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or thyme on top before serving. Enjoy your flavorful Florida Shrimp Pie warm!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely in the fridge overnight or under cold running water before cooking. Pat them dry to avoid extra moisture in the pie.
Can I Make Florida Shrimp Pie Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the pie up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover pie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to keep the crust crisp.
Can I Customize the Filling?
Definitely! Feel free to swap in other seafood like crab or lobster, add fresh herbs, or include a little heat with jalapeños or hot sauce for a personalized touch.