Name: Savory Florida Shrimp Pie: Your New Comfort Food Favorite
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 1 9-inch unbaked pastry shell (Store-bought pie crust can be used for convenience.); 1 pound fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined (Frozen shrimp can be used.); 1 tablespoon butter (Olive oil can be a lighter alternative.); 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped (Shallots can be used for a milder flavor.); 1/4 cup green bell pepper, finely chopped (Red or yellow bell peppers can be substituted.); 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped (Can be omitted if sensitive to taste.); 1 clove garlic, minced (Garlic powder can substitute in a pinch.); 1/2 cup mayonnaise (Greek yogurt can be a lighter alternative.); 1/2 cup milk (Use plant-based milk for dairy-free option.); 2 large eggs (Flaxseed meal mixed with water can be a vegan substitute.); 1 tablespoon lemon juice (Lime juice can also be substituted.); 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (Soy sauce is a vegan option.); 1/2 teaspoon salt (Adjust according to dietary needs.); 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (White pepper can be used for a milder taste.); 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (Reduce or omit for milder flavor.); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (Monterey Jack can be used for milder taste.)

As I was savoring a sun-soaked day in Florida, the aroma of a seafood bake wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to a cozy kitchen filled with laughter and good company. Today, I’m excited to share my take on that cherished memory—Florida Shrimp Pie. This easy seafood pie combines tender shrimp with a creamy custard and a vibrant medley of vegetables, all snuggled into a flaky crust. Not only is this dish a delicious nod to Southern cooking, but it also serves as the perfect centerpiece for brunches, cozy family dinners, or festive gatherings. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to various dietary preferences. Are you ready to delight your taste buds with this comforting dish? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why Is Florida Shrimp Pie So Irresistible?

Comforting Flavor: This dish blends savory shrimp with a creamy custard, creating a satisfying taste that warms the soul.

Versatility: Perfect for any occasion—whether it’s brunch, dinner, or a festive gathering, this pie is a crowd-pleaser.

Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this pie without breaking a sweat.

Diet-Friendly Options: Need a lightened version? Substitute with Greek yogurt or low-fat mayonnaise without sacrificing flavor. Consider also our Peach Pie Cruffins if you’re in the mood for dessert!

Texture Delight: A flaky crust envelops a creamy filling filled with colorful vegetables, making every bite an experience.

Time-Saving: Prepping in advance allows you to enjoy more time with friends and family, making it a practical option for gatherings.

Florida Shrimp Pie Ingredients

For the Pie Crust
• Unbaked 9-inch pastry shell – Your base structure; feel free to use a store-bought pie crust for convenience.

For the Filling
• Fresh shrimp (1 pound, peeled and deveined) – The star of the dish; frozen shrimp can be a budget-friendly alternative.
• Butter (1 tablespoon) – Adds richness; olive oil can provide a lighter twist.
• Onion (1/4 cup, finely chopped) – Brings sweetness and depth; shallots work for a milder flavor.
• Green bell pepper (1/4 cup, finely chopped) – Adds color and crunch; substitute with red or yellow bell peppers for sweetness.
• Celery (1/4 cup, finely chopped) – Enhances flavor; feel free to omit if you’re sensitive to its taste.
• Garlic (1 clove, minced) – Offers aromatic depth; garlic powder can replace it in a pinch.

For the Custard
• Mayonnaise (1/2 cup) – Forms the creamy base; Greek yogurt makes a lighter alternative.
• Milk (1/2 cup) – Helps keep it moist; opt for plant-based milk if going dairy-free.
• Large eggs (2) – Provides structure; flaxseed meal mixed with water makes a vegan substitute.
• Lemon juice (1 tablespoon) – Brightens flavors and adds zest; lime juice can also work as a substitute.
• Worcestershire sauce (1 teaspoon) – Adds a savory umami kick; soy sauce is a vegan option.

Seasonings and Cheese
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon) – Enhances overall flavor; adjust according to your dietary needs.
• Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon) – Provides seasoning; white pepper can replace it for a milder taste.
• Cayenne pepper (1/4 teaspoon) – Adds a hint of heat; reduce or omit for a milder flavor.
• Shredded Cheddar cheese (1 cup) – Brings richness and texture; for a milder taste, consider Monterey Jack.

Enjoy creating this delightful Florida Shrimp Pie, a comforting dish that’s sure to impress!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Florida Shrimp Pie

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This is crucial for achieving that perfect golden crust on your Florida Shrimp Pie. While the oven heats up, place your unbaked 9-inch pastry shell on a baking sheet. This will make it easier to transfer to the oven later!

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add in 1/4 cup of finely chopped onion, 1/4 cup of finely chopped green bell pepper, 1/4 cup of finely chopped celery, and 1 minced garlic clove. Sauté these ingredients until they become tender and translucent, about 5-7 minutes—this step enhances their sweetness and flavor integration.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Next, stir in 1 pound of fresh, peeled, and deveined shrimp into the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Cook the shrimp until they turn pink and opaque, approximately 3-5 minutes. Once done, remove from heat and drain any excess liquid, ensuring your filling remains creamy.

Step 4: Prepare the Custard Mixture
In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of mayonnaise and 1/2 cup of milk until you achieve a smooth consistency. Next, add 2 large eggs, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Mix until everything is well combined to form the creamy custard base for your Florida Shrimp Pie.

Step 5: Assemble the Pie
Spread the shrimp and vegetable mixture evenly into the pastry shell, ensuring it’s well distributed. Pour the custard mixture over the top, allowing it to seep into the shrimp and veggies. To finish off, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly across the surface, adding a deliciously rich flavor to your pie.

Step 6: Bake the Pie
Carefully place the assembled pie in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the filling is set, and the top is a beautiful golden brown—an inviting sight that will make your mouth water!

Step 7: Let it Rest
Once baked, remove the Florida Shrimp Pie from the oven and allow it to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period helps the flavors meld together and makes serving easier, ensuring that each slice holds its shape beautifully.

Expert Tips for Florida Shrimp Pie

Fresh Shrimp: Always use fresh shrimp for the best flavor. If using frozen, ensure they are completely thawed and patted dry to avoid excess moisture.

Vegetable Sauté: Sauté vegetables until they are soft and tender—this enhances their natural sweetness and helps integrate flavors for a well-balanced pie.

Custard Consistency: Whisk the custard ingredients thoroughly to achieve a smooth mixture. This ensures even distribution and a creamy texture throughout your Florida Shrimp Pie.

Resting Time: Remember to let the pie rest after baking for at least 10 minutes. This allows the filling to set, making slicing and serving much easier without losing shape.

Cheese Alternatives: Experiment with different cheeses! While Cheddar is classic, try using a combination of cheeses for varied flavors, boosting the richness of your easy seafood pie.

Make Ahead Options

Florida Shrimp Pie is a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to save time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the filling by sautéing the vegetables and cooking the shrimp up to 24 hours in advance, then refrigerate it in an airtight container. Just before baking, whisk together the custard ingredients and pour over the shrimp mixture, topping it with cheese. Additionally, you can assemble the entire pie without baking and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake it straight from the fridge, adding 5-10 extra minutes to the cooking time for optimal results. This way, you’ll have a comforting meal ready to enjoy with minimal effort!

Florida Shrimp Pie Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to make this delightful dish your own with these enticing twists that cater to different tastes and dietary preferences!

Healthy Option: Use low-fat mayonnaise, unsweetened almond milk, and egg whites for a lighter, guilt-free version.
Kid-Friendly Variety: Reduce the cayenne pepper and stick with mild Cheddar, cutting the pie into fun hand-held wedges.
Budget-Friendly Swap: Opt for frozen shrimp instead of fresh and decrease the cheese to 3/4 cup to keep costs low.
Spicy Kick: Add a splash of hot sauce or replace Cheddar with Pepper Jack cheese for an extra punch of flavor.
Seasonal Flair: Stir in fresh herbs like thyme or tarragon; serve with homemade cranberry chutney for a festive touch.
Dairy-Free Delight: Use a plant-based mayo and coconut milk to create a creamy custard without the dairy.
Texture Twist: For added crunch, sprinkle some Panko breadcrumbs on top before baking to create a delightful crust.
Flavor Boost: Consider adding a bit of smoked paprika to the filling for an added layer of smokiness that complements the shrimp beautifully.

With these variations, you can easily customize your Florida Shrimp Pie to suit your family’s tastes or dietary needs. Enjoy experimenting and don’t forget to check out our Garlic Shrimp Pasta for another fantastic seafood recipe that you’ll love!

How to Store and Freeze Florida Shrimp Pie

Fridge: Store leftover Florida Shrimp Pie in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring it’s kept fresh and flavorful.

Freezer: To freeze, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. It can be stored for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: For best results, reheat individual slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through; this preserves the creamy texture.

Make-Ahead: You can prepare the pie a day in advance, just bake it fresh on the day you’re serving for optimal taste and texture!

What to Serve with Florida Shrimp Pie

Indulging in a slice of this creamy, savory pie invites the need for equally delightful companions to round out your meal.

Garden Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette keeps things light and complements the rich flavors of the pie perfectly.
Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread offers a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling, making each bite even more enjoyable.
Steamed Asparagus: This vibrant side adds a pop of color and a crisp bite, enhancing the dish with its earthy flavor that balances the shrimp pie’s richness.
Crispy Potato Wedges: Golden, crunchy potato wedges add a rustic charm and rustic flavor, perfect for soaking up any creamy bits left on your plate.
Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw made with cabbage and a zesty dressing provides a cool, crunchy counterpart, cutting through the creaminess of the pie.
Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay’s bright acidity pairs wonderfully with the seafood and enhances the flavors in the pie.
Key Lime Pie: Cap off your meal with a slice of classic Key Lime Pie, its tartness balancing the savory elements while evoking that sunny Florida vibe.

Florida Shrimp Pie Recipe FAQs

What kind of shrimp should I use for Florida Shrimp Pie?
Absolutely! Fresh shrimp is ideal for Florida Shrimp Pie as it offers the best flavor and texture. If fresh shrimp isn’t available, frozen shrimp works as a great budget-friendly alternative. Just ensure they are completely thawed and patted dry before use to avoid excess moisture in your pie.

How should I store leftover Florida Shrimp Pie?
Store leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors fresh and prevents the crust from becoming soggy. Make sure it’s cooled completely before sealing it up!

Can I freeze Florida Shrimp Pie?
Yes! To freeze your pie, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What if my filling isn’t setting properly?
If you find that the filling isn’t setting, it might be due to excess moisture from the shrimp or vegetables. Always drain any excess liquid after cooking them. Also, ensuring the custard mixture is well combined before pouring it into the pie shell will help. If needed, bake a few extra minutes while keeping an eye on the top to avoid burning.

Are there any dietary alternatives I should consider?
Very! If you need a lighter version, you can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or use low-fat mayonnaise. For a dairy-free option, replace regular milk with your favorite plant-based milk. The pie remains delicious while accommodating various dietary preferences.