Florida Shrimp Pie Recipe

If you have ever dreamed of a dish that perfectly balances the fresh, briny taste of seafood with creamy richness and a satisfying crunch, the Florida Shrimp Pie delivers exactly that and more. This pie captures the essence of the Gulf Coast’s bounty with tender, succulent shrimp enveloped in a luscious cream sauce, all nestled in a buttery pie crust topped with a golden, crispy panko crust. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply craving an indulgent, homey meal, this Florida Shrimp Pie is sure to become a beloved staple on your dinner table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients right is key to making this Florida Shrimp Pie truly shine. Each element adds a specific texture, flavor, or color to the dish, creating layers of deliciousness that come together seamlessly.

• Pre-made pie crust: Convenient and buttery, serves as the perfect flaky base for the filling.
• Egg wash: Adds a shiny, golden finish to the crust and helps it brown evenly.
• Florida shrimp (1 pound): Fresh and tender, these shrimp bring the signature seafood flavor that’s the heart of the pie.
• Butter (3 tablespoons): Used both for sautéing and in the topping, it enriches the dish with a silky taste.
• Onion, celery, and red bell pepper (½ cup each): These veggies add subtle sweetness, crunch, and vibrant color to the filling.
• Garlic (2 cloves): For aromatic punch that enhances the shrimp’s natural flavor.
• Old Bay seasoning: A classic blend that provides a perfect seasoning base with its complex, savory notes.
• Smoked paprika and cayenne pepper: Add warmth and a slight smoky depth without overpowering the delicate seafood.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors.
• All-purpose flour: Helps thicken the luscious cream sauce binding the ingredients.
• Heavy cream and whole milk: Create the rich, velvety texture that makes every bite feel decadent.
• Dijon mustard and lemon zest: Bring brightness and a gentle tang that cuts through the richness.
• White cheddar and Parmesan cheese: Offer creamy, sharp, and nutty notes that elevate the filling.
• Panko breadcrumbs: For a crunchy, golden topping that provides a pleasing contrast to the creamy center.
• Fresh parsley: Adds a pop of green and fresh herbal lift to the finish.

How to Make Florida Shrimp Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully roll the pie crust into a 9-inch pie pan and crimp the edges to create that classic homemade look. To prevent the crust from puffing up during baking, prick the bottom lightly with a fork. Then, brush the entire crust with egg wash to give it that gorgeous golden shine. Pop the crust in the oven for about 10 minutes until it just begins to turn golden. This pre-baking step ensures the crust stays crisp once the rich shrimp filling is added.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp Filling

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and add the finely chopped onion, celery, and red bell pepper. Sauté these until they soften and release their natural sweetness, roughly 3 to 4 minutes. Next, stir in the minced garlic and the aromatic blend of Old Bay seasoning, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper, cooking for just another minute to let those flavors bloom.

Then add the chopped Florida shrimp, sautéing until they turn pink but stay tender—about 2 to 3 minutes. Set this mixture aside briefly, giving the shrimp the spotlight they deserve.

Using the same skillet, sprinkle in the all-purpose flour and whisk thoroughly to create a roux. Slowly pour in the heavy cream and milk while whisking constantly to create a thick and creamy sauce. Stir in the Dijon mustard and lemon zest for brightness, then fold in the white cheddar and Parmesan cheese until smooth and melty. Return the shrimp mixture to the skillet and gently combine. Now your filling is rich, flavorful, and ready for the pie crust.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Pour the luscious shrimp filling evenly into your pre-baked pie crust, smoothing the surface gently. Prepare the crunchy topping by mixing the panko breadcrumbs with melted butter, Parmesan cheese, and chopped fresh parsley. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the filling to create a beautifully crisp golden crown after baking.

Bake your pie for 25 to 30 minutes at 375°F (190°C) until the topping is perfectly golden brown and the filling is bubbling happily beneath. Allow the pie to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing—this downtime helps the filling set, making each piece neat and satisfying.

How to Serve Florida Shrimp Pie

Garnishes

To elevate your Florida Shrimp Pie, fresh garnishes are a game changer. A sprinkle of extra chopped parsley adds vibrant color and an herbal freshness that livens up each bite. Add a light drizzle of lemon juice or a few dashes of hot sauce for an irresistible tangy kick that cuts through the creamy filling.

Side Dishes

This pie pairs wonderfully with crisp, light sides that complement the richness without overwhelming it. A fresh green salad with a bright vinaigrette, roasted seasonal vegetables, or crunchy coleslaw provide both texture and balance. These sides help round out the meal and ensure a delightful dining experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, consider serving the Florida Shrimp Pie in individual mini pies or tartlet pans for a personal touch. You could also turn the pie filling into a savory pot pie by topping it with puff pastry instead of panko for a flaky, buttery crust that’s just as stunning. Don’t forget to garnish each serving beautifully to impress your guests or family.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers after enjoying your Florida Shrimp Pie, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pie will keep well for up to 3 days, and the flavors often deepen overnight, making leftovers even better.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap the pie tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the pie overnight in the fridge for best results before reheating.

Reheating

Warm up leftover Florida Shrimp Pie in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 to 20 minutes. This method keeps the crust crisp and the filling creamy. Avoid microwaving, which can make the crust soggy and the filling separate.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for Florida Shrimp Pie?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture. Fresh shrimp do offer the best flavor and texture, but frozen works well if handled properly.

Is it okay to use a homemade pie crust?

Definitely! If you prefer making your own crust, go for it. A homemade crust adds a wonderful personal touch. Just remember to pre-bake it to avoid sogginess when you add the creamy shrimp filling.

How spicy is the Florida Shrimp Pie?

The spice level is quite mild by default, thanks to a touch of smoked paprika and optional cayenne pepper. You can easily adjust the heat by adding more cayenne or serving it with hot sauce on the side.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the filling and pre-bake the crust a day before assembling and baking the pie. This saves time on the day you want to serve it and keeps the flavors fresh.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you don’t have heavy cream, you can use a mixture of whole milk and cream cheese or half-and-half. These alternatives help maintain the creamy texture but slightly alter the richness.

Final Thoughts

The Florida Shrimp Pie is a heartwarming, crowd-pleasing recipe that brings fresh seafood flavor to a comforting, creamy pie. Its perfect balance of textures and vibrant seasonings make it a dish worth making time and time again. I truly hope you’ll give this recipe a try and let it become a favorite at your table, sharing the sunny spirit of Florida’s coast in every bite.

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