If you’re looking for a delightful dish to impress your family and friends, look no further than Florida Shrimp Pie! This creamy and flavorful pie is filled with succulent shrimp and cheesy goodness, making it a true crowd-pleaser. I remember the first time I tried it at a beach picnic, and it quickly became a family favorite. Did you know that this dish combines the comfort of a savory pie with the bright flavors of the sea? With its quick preparation time and simple ingredients, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or special Sunday gatherings. If you love something as comforting as our popular Chicken Pot Pie, you’ll adore this treasure from the coast! So, grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!
What is Florida Shrimp Pie?
Have you ever wondered why this delightful dish is called Florida Shrimp Pie? It’s probably because it captures the sunshine and vibrancy of its namesake state! Picture this: fresh shrimp, creamy cheese, and aromatic spices all snuggled into a buttery pie crust. It’s as if Florida decided to make a cozy dish that you can enjoy all year round! And let’s not forget, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” right? So, why not try your hand at this dish that’s sure to win over any seafood lover?
Why You’ll Love This
Florida Shrimp Pie is truly special for several reasons. First off, the main highlight is its creamy filling, which combines fresh shrimp, heavy cream, and savory cheese to create a dreamy texture you’ll crave. Plus, making this dish at home is a fantastic cost-saving option compared to dining out at seafood restaurants. Imagine treating your loved ones to a restaurant-quality meal at home—now that’s something to cheer about!
Finally, the addition of herbs and spices like parsley and Old Bay seasoning elevates this dish to new flavors, promising a taste sensation in every bite. If you love this pie, you might also want to check out our Shrimp Scampi recipe—another crowd favorite that’s bursting with flavor! So why wait? Gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try today!
How to Make
Quick Overview
Florida Shrimp Pie stands out for its ease of preparation and satisfying taste. The combination of creamy sauce and rich texture translates into a meal that’s as comforting as it is delicious. The best part? It only takes about 15 minutes to prep, plus 35 minutes of baking time—perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends!
Ingredients
To make Florida Shrimp Pie, you will need:
- 1 pre-made pie crust
- 1 pound fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is perfect for a golden-brown crust!
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a skillet over medium heat, add the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté until softened, which should take about 5 minutes. The aromas will surely tempt your taste buds!
- Cook the Shrimp: Add the fresh shrimp to the skillet and cook until they turn pink, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes. Once done, remove the skillet from the heat and let it cool slightly.
- Prepare the Cream Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, eggs, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir in the shrimp mixture and half of the cheddar cheese into the cream mixture.
- Fill the Pie Crust: Pour the mixture into the pre-made pie crust you have ready.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top for a gooey, melty finish.
- Bake the Pie: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown.
- Serve: Allow the pie to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy the compliments!
What to Serve Florida Shrimp Pie With
To create a well-rounded meal, consider serving Florida Shrimp Pie alongside a fresh green salad tossed with a zesty vinaigrette or some garlic bread to soak up the pie’s delicious filling. A chilled glass of white wine or unsweetened iced tea would make the perfect pairing, complementing the flavors beautifully.
Top Tips for Perfecting
- Ingredient Substitutions: If you don’t have fresh shrimp, feel free to use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.
- Timing Adjustments: Keep an eye on the baking time; ovens vary and you want that golden crust!
- Common Mistakes: Avoid overcooking the shrimp during the sautéing step, as they will cook further in the oven.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Leftover Florida Shrimp Pie can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, which can last up to 2 months. To reheat, simply place in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes, or until that creamy amazement is good to go!
FAQs
Can I use other seafood in the pie?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute shrimp with crab, lobster, or a mix of your favorite seafood.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes! The creamy and savory filling is usually a hit with kids who enjoy seafood.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance and simply bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Conclusion
Florida Shrimp Pie is a delightful blend of flavors that promises to become a family favorite! The creamy filling, paired with a buttery crust, makes it a dish worth sharing. Whether for a family dinner or a relaxed weekend meal, this recipe offers comfort and joy with every bite. So why wait? Dive into the delicious world of Florida Shrimp Pie today!
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made pie crust
- 1 pound fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, sauté diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic over medium heat for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together heavy cream, eggs, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in the cooked shrimp mixture and half of the cheddar cheese.
- Pour mixture into the pre-made pie crust and top with remaining cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until the top is golden and the filling is set.
- Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Notes
Substitute shrimp with crab or a seafood blend if preferred. Make ahead and refrigerate before baking for easy prep. Perfect served with salad or garlic bread.
