Florida Shrimp Pie Recipe

Introduction

Florida Shrimp Pie is a delicious, creamy seafood dish that combines fresh shrimp, a cheesy filling, and a flaky crust for a perfect coastal-inspired meal. This dish is popular in Florida due to its abundance of fresh seafood and its comforting, homemade appeal. It’s a great choice for brunch, lunch, or dinner, and pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or a side of roasted vegetables.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply want to enjoy a unique seafood dish, this Florida Shrimp Pie is sure to impress. The combination of fresh shrimp, creamy sauce, and flaky pie crust creates a mouthwatering experience in every bite. Let’s dive into this classic recipe!

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Ingredients

For the Pie Crust:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 4-5 tablespoons ice water

For the Filling:

• 1 pound fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon butter
• ½ cup onions, finely chopped
• ½ cup bell peppers, finely chopped (red or green)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for spice)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup whole milk
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

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Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Cut in the chilled butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.
4. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface and fit it into a 9-inch pie pan.
7. Prick the bottom with a fork and pre-bake the crust for 10 minutes. Remove from oven and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

1. Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add onions, bell peppers, and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
3. Add shrimp, Old Bay seasoning, paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, and black pepper.
4. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the shrimp turn pink.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, and milk.
2. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese.
3. Add the cooked shrimp mixture and stir well to combine.
4. Mix in fresh parsley and lemon juice for extra flavor.

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

1. Pour the filling into the pre-baked pie crust, spreading it evenly.
2. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

1. Let the pie rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
2. Garnish with extra parsley and serve warm.

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Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add extra cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a spicier version.
• Cheese Swap: Use Gruyère, Parmesan, or Pepper Jack instead of cheddar for a different flavor profile.
• Veggie Boost: Add mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra texture.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free pie crust or make a crustless shrimp quiche.

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Cooking Notes

• Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor, but frozen shrimp (thawed) also works.
• Don’t overcook the shrimp before baking, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
• Let the pie cool slightly before cutting to help it set properly.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a fresh green salad and lemon vinaigrette.
• Pair with roasted asparagus or grilled zucchini.
• Enjoy with a glass of crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.
• Serve warm with a side of garlic bread for a heartier meal.

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Tips

• Chill the dough before rolling to prevent shrinking.
• Use a pie shield or aluminum foil to prevent the crust edges from burning.
• Let it cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing to ensure a clean cut.
• Double the recipe and freeze an unbaked pie for later.

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Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 35 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~350
• Protein: ~20g
• Sodium: ~600mg

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FAQs

1. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, but reduce the cooking time in the skillet to just 1-2 minutes to avoid overcooking.

2. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare and refrigerate the unbaked pie overnight, then bake it fresh the next day.

3. Can I freeze shrimp pie?

Yes. Wrap the baked or unbaked pie tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.

4. What type of shrimp works best?

Medium or large shrimp (fresh or frozen) work best. Avoid tiny shrimp, as they can get lost in the filling.

5. How do I reheat shrimp pie?

Reheat slices in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals.

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Conclusion

Florida Shrimp Pie is a creamy, cheesy, and savory seafood dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a special gathering, this easy-to-follow recipe delivers rich flavors and a comforting, flaky crust. With a variety of customization options, you can tailor this dish to your taste. Try it today and enjoy a taste of Florida’s coastal cuisine in your own kitchen!

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