Florida is famous for its fresh seafood, tropical flavors, and unique culinary traditions. One of the hidden gems of Floridian cuisine is Florida Shrimp Pie—a savory, creamy, and flavorful dish that embodies the essence of coastal living. Whether you’re looking for a new way to enjoy shrimp or want to impress your guests with a unique seafood pie, this recipe will become a favorite in your kitchen.
In this detailed article, we’ll cover:
- The history of Florida Shrimp Pie
- The essential ingredients
- A step-by-step guide to making it
- Tips and variations
- What to serve with shrimp pie
So, let’s dive into the world of Florida Shrimp Pie and bring the taste of the ocean to your table.
A Brief History of Florida Shrimp Pie
Florida’s cuisine is heavily influenced by its diverse cultural history, including Spanish, Caribbean, and Southern American flavors. Seafood has always been at the heart of Florida’s food scene, with shrimp being one of the most abundant and versatile ingredients.
Shrimp pies originated as a way to create a hearty, filling dish using local seafood and pantry staples like eggs, cream, cheese, and pie crust. Over time, the dish evolved, incorporating different seasonings and ingredients to reflect regional preferences. Today, it remains a beloved comfort food along Florida’s coast.
Essential Ingredients for Florida Shrimp Pie
To make an authentic Florida Shrimp Pie, you’ll need a combination of fresh seafood, creamy elements, flavorful seasonings, and a buttery crust. Here’s a list of essential ingredients:
For the Pie Crust:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (1 stick) cold butter, diced
- 3-4 tablespoons ice water
Shortcut: If you prefer, you can use a store-bought pie crust.
For the Filling:
- 1 pound fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 small bell pepper, diced (red or green for color)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a spicy kick)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup whole milk
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (to thicken)
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Florida Shrimp Pie
Follow this simple guide to make a delicious Florida Shrimp Pie with a crispy crust and creamy, flavorful filling.
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
- Add cold butter and use a pastry cutter or fork to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Slowly add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.
- Form the dough into a ball, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface and place it into a 9-inch pie pan.
- Pre-bake the crust at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes until lightly golden.
(If using store-bought crust, skip to the next step!)
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
- Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions, bell peppers, and garlic; sauté until soft.
- Stir in paprika, Old Bay seasoning, cayenne (if using), salt, and black pepper.
- Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Remove shrimp from heat and let cool slightly.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Filling
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together heavy cream, milk, eggs, hot sauce, and lemon zest.
- Stir in cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and flour to thicken the mixture.
- Add the cooked shrimp and vegetables.
- Mix well to ensure an even distribution of ingredients.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
- Pour the shrimp mixture into the pre-baked pie crust.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes or until the center is set and the top is golden.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Tips and Variations for the Best Florida Shrimp Pie
- Use Fresh Florida Shrimp: The best flavor comes from fresh, wild-caught shrimp from the Gulf of Mexico.
- Add More Veggies: Mushrooms, spinach, or corn can add extra texture and flavor.
- Try a Different Cheese: Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or Swiss for a different taste.
- Make It Spicier: Increase the cayenne and hot sauce if you love a little heat.
- Make It Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free pie crust and replace flour with cornstarch as a thickener.
- Add a Southern Touch: A few crumbled bacon pieces on top before baking can add a smoky depth.
What to Serve with Florida Shrimp Pie
Since shrimp pie is rich and creamy, it pairs well with light, refreshing sides. Here are some great options:
- Crisp Green Salad – A simple arugula or spinach salad with a lemon vinaigrette.
- Steamed Asparagus or Green Beans – Adds a healthy, crunchy contrast.
- Citrus Slaw – A mix of cabbage, carrots, and citrus dressing for a tangy bite.
- Cornbread – A classic Southern side that complements the creamy filling.
- Sweet Potato Fries – A sweet and savory balance to the dish.
- Iced Tea or Lemonade – A refreshing drink to cleanse the palate.
Why You Should Try Florida Shrimp Pie
Florida Shrimp Pie is: ✔ Easy to Make – Simple steps with readily available ingredients.
✔ Full of Fresh Seafood Flavor – Perfect for seafood lovers.
✔ Comforting & Satisfying – A warm, cheesy, and creamy dish.
✔ Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for family dinners, brunch, or holiday gatherings.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a unique and delicious way to enjoy shrimp, Florida Shrimp Pie is a must-try! It’s a dish that celebrates the vibrant seafood culture of Florida, offering a creamy, cheesy, and slightly spicy experience in every bite.
Try this recipe and let the flavors of the Florida coast come alive in your kitchen. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this shrimp pie is sure to impress!
Would you like a printable version of this recipe? Let me know, and I’ll format it for easy access! Happy cooking! 🍤🥧
