Okay, picture this: it’s a breezy evening, the kind where the air smells like salt and sunscreen, and you’re craving something that tastes like a vacation. That’s exactly what this Florida Shrimp Pie is. It’s kind of like a quiche, but way more exciting, and dare I say, even easier. It’s got that creamy, comforting filling you love in a classic pie, but with a burst of fresh, briny shrimp that just screams “Florida.” My grandma used to make this every summer, and honestly, it’s become a family tradition. The best part? It’s so simple, even a kitchen newbie can whip it up without a fuss. The delightful aroma of the freshly baked Florida Shrimp Pie: What are someIs something that brings back many childhood memories?
What is Florida Shrimp Pie?
So, what exactly *is* Florida Shrimp Pie? Think of it as a savory custard pie, but with the star of the show being sweet, juicy Florida shrimp. It’s essentially a creamy base, usually made with eggs, milk (or cream for extra decadence!), and cheese, baked in a pie crust. The real magic happens when you fold in the cooked shrimp and any other veggies you like – onions, peppers, maybe even a little corn to really amp up that Florida vibe. It’s the perfect balance of savory, slightly sweet (from the shrimp!), and totally comforting. It’s not your typical sweet pie, that’s for sure, but it’s a slice of sunshine on a plate that’s surprisingly satisfying.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Seriously, there are so many reasons to adore this Florida Shrimp Pie. First off, the flavor is just incredible. The sweetness of the shrimp paired with the richness of the custard and the buttery crust is a match made in heaven. What I love most about this recipe is how incredibly easy it is. You don’t need to be a master baker to nail this one. It’s basically whisk, mix, pour, and bake! Plus, it’s surprisingly budget-friendly. Shrimp can be a splurge, sure, but you don’t need a ton for this pie, and the other ingredients are pantry staples. And the versatility? Endless! You can serve it for brunch, lunch, dinner, even as a fancy appetizer. It’s honestly just as good cold as it is warm, which makes it perfect for potlucks or make-ahead meals. If you love seafood and comforting pies, this Florida Shrimp Pie: How does itWhat will become your new favorite thing? I often compare this dish to crab quiche, but there is something special about the Florida Shrimp.
How do I make Florida Shrimp Pie?
Quick Overview
Making this Florida Shrimp Pie is simpler than you think! We’ll start by prepping the crust (you can use store-bought to save time!), then whisking together the creamy custard base. Next, we’ll gently fold in the cooked shrimp and any other goodies you want to add. Pour it all into the crust, bake until golden and set, and that’s it! The best part is that it’s so forgiving – don’t worry about making it “perfect,” just focus on getting that delicious shrimp flavor in every bite. This method is especially great because it lets the shrimp really shine without getting rubbery.
Ingredients
For the Pie Crust: What is the recipe?
* 1 9-inch pie crust, store-bought or homemade (I usually go for store bought – no shame! )
For the Filling:
* 1 pound Florida shrimp, peeled, deveined, and cooked (fresh is best, but frozen works too – just thaw them completely!)
* 1/2 cup chopped onion (yellow or white, whatever you have on hand)
* 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper (I like red for the color, but green is fine)
* 1/4 cup chopped celery (optional, but adds a nice savory note)
* 4 large eggs
* 1 1/2 cups milk (whole milk gives the richest flavor, but you can use 2% or even almond milk)
* 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Monterey Jack, or a mix!)
* 1/4 cup mayonnaise (don’t knock it ’til you try it – it adds a creamy tang)
* 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
* 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional, for a little kick)
* Salt and pepper to taste
For the optional Glaze:
* 2 tablespoons melted butter * 1 tablespoon lemon juice * Pinch of paprika (for color and flavor)
How do I follow the
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Alright, first things first, let’s preheat that oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, get your pie crust ready. If you’re using a store-bought crust, just unroll it and gently press it into your pie dish. If you’re feeling ambitious and making your own, kudos to you! Make sure to crimp the edges nicely – it makes it look fancy. Now, this is important: blind bake the crust for about 10 minutes. This prevents it from getting soggy later on. I always do this when making this Florida Shrimp Pie is a mustI usually poke holes in the bottom with a fork to prevent it from puffing up.
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
While the crust is blind baking, let’s get the filling’s flavor base going. In a skillet over medium heat, melt a tablespoon of butter. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery (if using). Sauté until they are softened, about 5-7 minutes. This step is crucial because it brings out the sweetness in the veggies and prevents them from being crunchy in the final pie. You’ll know they’re ready when the onion is translucent and the peppers are slightly tender.
Step 3: Whisk the Custard
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and hot sauce (if using). Whisk until everything is well combined and smooth. The mayonnaise might seem like an odd ingredient, but trust me, it adds a lovely creaminess and a subtle tang that really complements the shrimp. Make sure there are no lumps – you want a silky smooth custard.
Step 4: Combine
Now, fold in the cooked shrimp, sautéed vegetables, and shredded cheese into the custard. Do not overmix shrimp – you want them to stay intact and not break apart. Season with salt and pepper to taste. I always give it a little taste at this point to make sure the seasoning is just right.
Step 5: Pour & Bake
Pour the shrimp mixture into the pre-baked pie crust. Spread it out evenly so that the shrimp and veggies are distributed throughout. Now, it’s time to bake! Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-40 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown. You’ll know it’s ready when the center is no longer jiggly and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. I learned this trick after years of making it! If the crust starts to brown too quickly, you can tent it with foil.
Step 6: Cool & Glaze (Optional)
Once the pie is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool before glazing (if using). To make the glaze, melt the butter and whisk in the lemon juice and paprika. Brush the glaze over the top of the pie. This glaze adds a little extra flavor. Let the pie cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the filling to set up completely.
Step 7: Slice & Serve
What is that moment we’ve been waiting for? What is the best way to serve Florida Shrimp Pie? What are some good side dishes to serve with a salad?
What should I serve it with?
What are some good ideas for making Florida Shrimp Pie?
For Brunch:Can you serve this salad with a lemon vinaigrette? What goes great with a glass of iced tea?
For Lunch:Serve a smaller slice with tomato soup or chowder. What is the Perfect Comfort Food for a chilly day?
As Dessert:Okay, it’s not really dessert, but you could follow it with a light and fruity dessert like .. What are some good recipes for lime pie or some fresh berries with Whipped Cream? The contrast of savory and sweet is always a winner!
For Cozy Snacks:I love having a slice of this pie in the late evening with hot chocolate. Is this savory but not too heavy? For my family, we always serve this with a simple coleslaw to cut the richness of the pie. What are some good ways to serve Coleslaw with a salad?
How do I make a Florida shrimp pie?
What are some tips for making Florida Shrimp Pie? Trial and error: What is trial and
Shrimp Prep:Don’t overcook shrimp! Overcooked shrimp are tough. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque. I usually poach them for about 3-5 minutes, or until they’re just cooked through. I like to pat them dry after cooking. It’s perfect every time.
Mixing Advice:Be gentle when folding the shrimp and vegetables into the custard mixture. Overmixing can cause custard to become tough.
Cheese Choice:Feel free to experiment with different cheeses! What are some good ways to use Cheddar in a meal?
Ingredient Swaps:Can you customize this pie with your favorite vegetables? What are some good substitutes for spinach? Just make sure to sauté any raw vegetables before adding them to the filling.
Baking Tips:Keep an eye on the crust while baking. If it starts to brown too quickly, you can tent it with foil to prevent it from burning.
Hot Sauce: I like to add a dash of hot sauce for a little kick, but it’s totally optional. If you’re not a fan of spice, you can leave it out.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? Here’s how to keep your Florida Shrimp Pie tasting great:
Room Temperature: I wouldn’t recommend leaving it at room temperature for more than a couple of hours, especially if it’s warm outside. Cover it loosely with plastic wrap.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the pie in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before refrigerating.
Freezer Instructions: You can freeze the pie for up to 2-3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat the pie, you can either microwave it in short intervals or bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Microwaving can sometimes make the crust a little soggy, so baking is the preferred method if you have the time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
Honestly, this Florida Shrimp Pie is more than just a recipe – it’s a taste of sunshine and happy memories. It’s easy enough for a weeknight meal, but special enough for a weekend brunch. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, I promise you’ll love how simple and delicious this pie is. And if you’re a fan of savory pies, you absolutely have to try my Zucchini Pie recipe – it’s another family favorite! Can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Leave a comment below and let me know what you think, and don’t forget to rate the recipe. Happy baking!
