As I sift through my collection of cherished recipes, a dazzling gem always catches my eye—Florida Shrimp Pie. This delightful dish embodies a sunny coastal escape right in your kitchen. Packed with tender shrimp, rich Gruyère cheese, and a hint of lemon zest, it’s both a comforting classic and a refreshing twist on traditional pie. What I adore most about this recipe is its effortless prep and incredible crowd-pleasing potential, making it perfect for everything from family dinners to casual get-togethers. Plus, it offers a fantastic way to elevate any weeknight meal into something memorable. Are you ready to dive into this seafood sensation? Let’s whisk our way to deliciousness!
Why is Florida Shrimp Pie a Must-Try?
Every bite, you’ll experience a delightful blend of flavors—the creamy Gruyère pairs beautifully with succulent shrimp, creating a rich, savory dish that’s hard to resist. Super easy to make, this recipe is perfect for novice cooks craving gourmet flavor without the fuss. Versatile for occasions, whether it’s a relaxed weeknight dinner or a cheerful gathering, this pie will wow your guests! Quick prep time ensures you won’t spend hours in the kitchen, and satisfying servings make it a great choice for sharing. Dive into this delicious recipe and watch it become a new family favorite!
Florida Shrimp Pie Ingredients
For the Crust
• 9-inch pie crust – a pre-made crust saves time, making it easier to enjoy this delightful dish.
For the Filling
• Olive oil or butter – adds richness to the sautéed shrimp and enhances the overall flavor.
• Medium shrimp – freshly peeled and deveined shrimp ensure tenderness and let the seafood flavor shine.
• Large eggs – bind the filling, creating a creamy texture that compliments the other ingredients.
• Heavy cream – brings a luscious consistency and richness that elevates the pie.
• Shredded Gruyère cheese – this nutty cheese melts beautifully, offering that irresistible creamy bite.
• Garlic – minced garlic infuses the dish with aromatic warmth, enhancing every bite.
• Green onions – add a fresh, crunchy contrast in flavor, brightening up the dish.
• Fresh parsley – chopped parsley gives a burst of color and freshness right before serving.
• Lemon zest – a touch of zest adds bright acidity that balances the creaminess.
• Salt – elevates all the flavors of the filling for a scrumptious taste.
• Black pepper – a sprinkle adds just the right amount of warmth and depth to the recipe.
This Florida Shrimp Pie is not just a meal; it's a celebration of flavors and comfort that will make your kitchen feel like a seaside restaurant!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Florida Shrimp Pie
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pie Crust
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven warms, take your ready-made 9-inch pie crust and press it gently into a pie dish. Prick the bottom with a fork to prevent bubbling, then blind bake for 10–12 minutes until lightly golden. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly on a wire rack.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
In a skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter. Once hot, toss in the pound of peeled and deveined medium shrimp, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Sauté for about 2–3 minutes, until the shrimp turn a lovely pink color. Remove the skillet from the heat and allow the shrimp to cool for a few moments.
Step 3: Whisk the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, crack in 3 large eggs and pour in 1 cup of heavy cream. Whisk them together until well combined. Next, add in 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of lemon zest, and a dash of salt and pepper. Stir in the sliced green onions and about ¾ cup of the shredded Gruyère cheese, mixing until everything is evenly distributed.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
Layer the sautéed shrimp evenly across the bottom of the cooled pie crust, making sure each slice will have a generous shrimp portion. Pour the creamy egg mixture over the shrimp, ensuring it’s evenly spread. Finally, sprinkle the remaining Gruyère cheese on top, followed by a scattering of chopped parsley for a fresh touch.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Carefully place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any potential spills. Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden and bubbly. Keep an eye on it as it cooks; the perfect Florida Shrimp Pie should slightly jiggle in the center when done.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes to allow the filling to firm up. This brief cooling period enhances the flavor and makes slicing easier. After resting, slice it into 8 delectable pieces and enjoy your scrumptious Florida Shrimp Pie with family or friends!
Florida Shrimp Pie Variations
Feel free to explore these tempting twists to make the Florida Shrimp Pie uniquely yours!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use a dairy-free cheese for a light alternative.
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the egg mixture for a delightful heat that warms the palate.
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Vegetarian Option: Swap shrimp for sautéed mushrooms and spinach, creating a rich, hearty pie that still boasts a wonderful creaminess.
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Flavorful Herbs: Experiment with fresh dill or thyme; they enhance the aromatic profile, bringing a fresh burst of flavor to every bite.
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Zesty Lemon: Increase the lemon zest to 2 teaspoons or add a splash of lemon juice for a brighter, zestier filling that sings with freshness.
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Crust Alternative: Use a sweet potato or cauliflower crust for a gluten-free option that’s still packed with flavor and a delightful texture.
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Cheese Swap: While Gruyère is a classic, feel free to try other cheeses like feta or cheddar for a different flavor depth and tang.
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Seafood Medley: Instead of just shrimp, combine lobster or crab meat for a luxurious seafood experience that elevates the dish to new heights.
How to Store and Freeze Florida Shrimp Pie
- Room Temperature: Florida Shrimp Pie can be left out at room temperature for up to 2 hours; beyond that, it’s best to refrigerate to ensure freshness.
- Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the microwave or oven until heated thoroughly.
- Freezer: Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: To reheat, place slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15–20 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is bubbly again.
Make Ahead Options
Florida Shrimp Pie is a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling and assemble the pie up to 24 hours in advance by following these simple steps. Begin by sautéing the shrimp and mixing the egg filling as directed, then refrigerate them separately in airtight containers. To prevent the pie crust from getting soggy, assemble the pie (without baking) just before you’re ready to serve. When you’re set to enjoy your homemade meal, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), pop it in for 35–40 minutes until golden and bubbly, and you’ll have a delicious, stress-free dinner ready in no time!
What to Serve with Florida Shrimp Pie?
Delight your taste buds with the perfect accompaniments to elevate your Florida Shrimp Pie experience!
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Crispy Green Salad: A mix of fresh greens with a light vinaigrette adds a zesty crunch, enhancing the pie's creamy texture. Top it off with some cucumbers for extra freshness!
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Garlic Bread: Buttered and toasted, garlic bread is perfect for sopping up the creamy filling, creating a delightful contrast with each bite.
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Grilled Asparagus: Tender, slightly charred asparagus spears bring a lovely earthy flavor and a satisfying crunch, pairing beautifully with the shrimp.
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Roasted Potatoes: Crispy on the outside and fluffy within, roasted potatoes offer a rustic touch that complements the rich pie.
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Tropical Fruit Salad: Fresh, juicy fruits like pineapple, mango, and kiwi add a bright, sweet contrast, refreshing your palate after each decadent slice.
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Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc will enhance the shrimp's flavors and balance the creaminess of the pie. It’s a delightful pairing for any seafood dish!
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Lemon Sorbet: A light, citrusy sorbet makes for a perfect finish, cleansing your palate while echoing the lemon zest in the pie.
Each of these side dishes brings a unique element to your table, making your Florida Shrimp Pie meal an unforgettable seafood feast!
Tips for the Best Florida Shrimp Pie
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Fresh Shrimp Matters: Use the freshest shrimp available for the best flavor and texture. Avoid frozen shrimp if possible, as they can become rubbery.
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Don’t Overcook: Sauté the shrimp just until pink and opaque. Overcooking can make the shrimp tough, so keep an eye on them!
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Blind Bake: Ensure you properly blind bake the pie crust to avoid a soggy bottom. It should be lightly golden before adding the filling.
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Egg Mixture Consistency: Whisk the egg and cream mixture thoroughly to create a smooth filling. Uneven mixing can lead to a strange texture.
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Rest Before Slicing: Let the pie rest for at least 10 minutes after baking. This helps the filling to set and makes slicing easier, enhancing the overall presentation.
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Customize Herbs: Feel free to experiment with different herbs like dill or thyme along with parsley to elevate the flavors of your Florida Shrimp Pie!
Florida Shrimp Pie Recipe FAQs
What type of shrimp is best for Florida Shrimp Pie?
Absolutely, using fresh medium shrimp is ideal! Fresh shrimp has a tender texture and a sweet flavor that enhances the pie. If fresh is unavailable, I recommend thawing frozen shrimp thoroughly and draining excess moisture to prevent sogginess.
How should I store leftover Florida Shrimp Pie?
To keep it fresh, store leftover Florida Shrimp Pie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps it fluffy and delicious—just reheat slices in the microwave or pop them back in a warm oven to enjoy all over again!
Can I freeze Florida Shrimp Pie?
Yes! To freeze, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It will last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15–20 minutes to regain that wonderful warmth.
What should I do if my pie crust is soggy?
No worries! If your crust turns out soggy, it likely didn't bake enough during the blind baking step. Ensure your crust is fully pre-baked until it’s lightly golden before adding the filling. If it happens, you can place slices in the oven briefly to crisp them up, but they'll be best enjoyed fresh from the oven.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
If you’re accommodating allergies or dietary needs, you can substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative, like coconut cream or a nut milk with a thickener for a similar texture. Just be sure to check for shrimp allergies, as shellfish can trigger reactions in some individuals.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Very! Adding veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or even zucchini can be a delicious way to boost nutrition and flavor. Just sauté them along with the shrimp for a few minutes. This makes the Florida Shrimp Pie even more colorful and enjoyable while still staying true to its coastal charm!
Delicious Florida Shrimp Pie that Will Steal Your Heart
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare the pie crust in a pie dish. Blind bake for 10–12 minutes until lightly golden.
- In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and sauté until pink, about 2–3 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together 3 large eggs and 1 cup of heavy cream. Add minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Stir in green onions and ¾ cup of shredded Gruyère cheese.
- Layer the sautéed shrimp in the baked pie crust. Pour the egg mixture over the shrimp and sprinkle with remaining Gruyère cheese and chopped parsley.
- Bake in the oven for 35–40 minutes or until the filling is set and golden on top. The pie should jiggle slightly in the center when done.
- Let the pie rest for 10 minutes before slicing it into 8 pieces. Serve and enjoy!
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