Florida Shrimp Pie

The Florida Shrimp Pie brings together the rich bounty of the coast and the warmth of Southern kitchens. It’s a creamy, savory delight with succulent shrimp enveloped in a buttery, golden crust. The mix of aromatic vegetables, spices, and dairy creates a luscious filling that’s both satisfying and indulgent.

Perfect for holidays, family dinners, or any evening when you want to impress with minimal effort, this pie blends comfort and elegance. The texture contrast between the crispy crust and the creamy filling makes every bite unforgettable. Serve it with a simple green salad or fresh citrus slaw for a complete coastal-inspired meal.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped

• 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

• 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped

• 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped

• 1/4 cup green bell pepper, finely chopped

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1/4 cup milk

• 2 large eggs, beaten

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté onion, celery, and bell pepper until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.

3. Stir in paprika, cayenne, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.

4. Slowly stir in cream and milk, whisking constantly until smooth and thickened, about 3-5 minutes.

5. Remove from heat. Stir in shrimp, eggs, cheese, and parsley. Mix well.

6. Pour the mixture into the pie crust and smooth the top.

7. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden. Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour
Kcal: 435 kcal | Servings: 6 slices

Florida Shrimp Pie: A Creamy, Flavorful Coastal Classic

Florida’s cuisine is as vibrant and diverse as its landscape, and nothing exemplifies this better than the Florida Shrimp Pie a creamy, savory, and indulgent dish that captures the sunshine state’s coastal bounty. This pie, brimming with succulent shrimp, rich dairy, and a flaky golden crust, is more than just a regional delicacy; it’s a comforting homage to Florida’s deep seafood heritage. Whether served as the main course at a family dinner or as a show-stopping entrée at a coastal-themed gathering, the Florida Shrimp Pie brings together classic Southern charm with a seaside twist.

This beloved dish embodies the marriage of traditional Southern cooking techniques with the freshest ingredients the Atlantic and Gulf coasts have to offer. In the Florida Shrimp Pie, every component tells a story of shrimp boats bobbing in the gulf, of warm kitchens filled with the scent of cream and spice, and of generations passing down recipes crafted with care and love.

The Roots of Coastal Comfort

Florida’s culinary history is rooted in its unique geography. With over 1,300 miles of coastline, it’s no surprise that seafood takes center stage in many Florida kitchens. Shrimp, in particular, is abundant in Florida’s waters and has been a staple in the diets of native Floridians for centuries. Historically, shrimp was prepared in simple ways boiled, grilled, or sautéed but as cultural influences from the Caribbean, the South, and even Latin America blended together, more complex and hearty shrimp dishes emerged.

The Shrimp Pie draws from the rich tradition of savory pies popular throughout the American South, such as chicken pot pie or crab pie, while also highlighting the freshness of local seafood. These savory pies are known for their rich fillings, golden crusts, and ability to feed a crowd, making them ideal for gatherings and family-style meals.

In Florida, the adaptation of a shrimp version likely came from the abundance of shrimp harvests and the local preference for seafood-forward meals. The use of heavy cream, cheese, and herbs adds a Southern twist, transforming humble shrimp into a dish that feels both indulgent and familiar.

The Flavor Experience

What sets the Florida Shrimp Pie apart is its luscious texture and complex layering of flavors. The shrimp are tender and briny, lending a sea-sweet note that permeates the creamy filling. Herbs such as parsley and thyme add brightness, while aromatic vegetables like onions and garlic provide depth and a savory foundation.

The creamy base usually made with a combination of heavy cream, cheese, and sometimes a roux adds richness without overpowering the shrimp. When baked inside a buttery pie crust, the filling becomes a decadent custard like center that contrasts beautifully with the flaky, golden edges. This balance of textures and flavors is what keeps people coming back for more.

This pie also lends itself well to slight personalizations. Some cooks may choose to add a splash of hot sauce or a dash of Old Bay seasoning for extra kick, while others might include corn, bell peppers, or even spinach for color and added nutrition. Despite its rich ingredients, the pie manages to stay light enough to enjoy year-round, whether it’s part of a summer seafood feast or a cozy winter supper.

A Versatile Star for Any Table

One of the greatest strengths of the Florida Shrimp Pie is its versatility. It can be served warm or at room temperature, making it suitable for picnics, potlucks, and even elegant brunches. It pairs effortlessly with a crisp garden salad, roasted vegetables, or even a chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

This dish also makes for excellent leftovers. The flavors deepen as it sits, and a slice reheated the next day is just as delicious perhaps even more so. Many home cooks make it ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight before baking, allowing the flavors to meld together more fully.

Whether presented as an individual tart or a full-sized pie, it never fails to impress guests with its homey yet gourmet appeal. The aroma alone creamy, herbaceous, and just a hint of ocean air will have everyone at the table asking for seconds.

Celebrating Florida’s Seafood Culture

In many ways, Florida Shrimp Pie serves as a celebration of the state’s thriving seafood industry and its proud culinary traditions. Shrimping is more than just a business in Florida it’s a way of life in coastal communities. Local shrimpers often pass down the trade through generations, supplying markets and restaurants with high quality, wild caught shrimp that boast superior flavor and texture.

When you make a Florida Shrimp Pie using fresh, local ingredients, you’re supporting not just a delicious meal but a vibrant cultural heritage. You’re partaking in a tradition that spans fishing docks, farmer’s markets, and family kitchens across the state.

Florida cuisine is known for its ability to blend comfort with elegance, and this dish does just that. It invites both novice and experienced cooks to experiment with regional ingredients while honoring a classic preparation that feels warm and familiar.

Health and Nutrition Notes

While the Florida Shrimp Pie is undeniably rich, shrimp themselves are a lean source of high quality protein. They’re low in calories, contain essential nutrients such as selenium, vitamin B12, and iodine, and are also a source of omega 3 fatty acids, which promote heart health. By pairing shrimp with fresh herbs and vegetables, and using moderation with dairy, this dish can be both satisfying and nourishing.

Home cooks can also modify the recipe to align with their dietary needs. For a lighter version, consider using reduced-fat cream or milk alternatives and a whole wheat crust. For a gluten-free option, the pie can be made using gluten-free pastry or served crustless as a creamy shrimp bake. The adaptability of this dish is one of its hidden strengths.

Conclusion:

The Florida Shrimp Pie is more than just a recipe it’s a reflection of the state’s culinary soul. It brings together the freshness of the sea, the warmth of home cooking, and the joy of sharing a hearty, flavorful meal. Whether you’re enjoying it for the first time or rediscovering it as part of your dinner rotation, this pie promises comfort, flavor, and a little taste of the Florida coast in every bite.

It’s the kind of dish that makes memories on warm summer nights by the beach or cozy winter dinners with family. And with every forkful, you’re reminded that some of the best meals come from blending tradition with creativity, simplicity with elegance, and land with sea.