Florida Shrimp Pie

This Florida Shrimp Pie is a delightful dish that showcases the fresh flavors of the Gulf shrimp, wrapped in a creamy filling and baked in a flaky crust. Perfect for family gatherings, dinner parties, or just a cozy night in, this recipe offers a taste of Florida’s coastal charm. The combination of zesty lemon, savory spices, and melted cheese will make this pie a standout at any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The blend of shrimp, cream, and spices creates a rich and satisfying taste that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or serve it alongside salads and sides for a complete meal.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this pie is approachable for cooks of all skill levels.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Its unique flavor profile makes it perfect for impressing guests at dinner parties or holiday gatherings.
• Comfort Food: This creamy shrimp bake combines warmth and richness that can brighten up any meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin crafting your Florida Shrimp Pie, gather these essential tools to simplify the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9-inch pie pan
• Large skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• 9-inch pie pan: Ensures even baking and proper shaping of the pie crust.
• Large skillet: Perfect for sautéing vegetables and cooking shrimp without overcrowding.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients smoothly without spills.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a creamy filling by blending liquids thoroughly.

Ingredients

This Florida Shrimp Pie combines succulent Gulf shrimp, a rich and creamy filling, and a golden, flaky pie crust. The filling is a savory blend of sautéed vegetables, cream, and just the right spices to enhance the shrimp’s natural sweetness. A hint of lemon zest and Old Bay seasoning give it a signature Floridian twist, while a layer of melted cheese on top makes it completely irresistible.

For the Crust

• 1 pre-made pie crust (or homemade if preferred)
• 1 egg wash (1 egg + 1 tablespoon water, beaten)

For the Filling

• 1 pound large Florida shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
• 2 tablespoons butter
• ½ cup onion, finely chopped
• ½ cup celery, finely chopped
• ½ cup red bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Cream Sauce

• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

For Topping

• ½ cup shredded white cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese (plus additional for topping)
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped

How to Make Florida Shrimp Pie

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready when your pie is assembled.

Step 2: Prepare the Pie Crust

1. Roll out the pie crust into your 9-inch pie pan.
2. Crimp the edges to secure the crust.
3. Lightly prick the bottom with a fork to prevent bubbling.
4. Brush with egg wash and pre-bake for about 10 minutes until lightly golden. Set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

1. In a large skillet:
   1. Melt butter over medium heat.
   2. Add onion, celery, and red bell pepper; sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Spices

1. Stir in:
   – Minced garlic
   – Old Bay seasoning
   – Smoked paprika
   – Optional cayenne pepper
   – Salt
   – Black pepper
2. Cook everything together for another minute until fragrant.

Step 5: Cook the Shrimp

1. Add chopped shrimp:
   1. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until pink but not overcooked.
   2. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 6: Make the Cream Sauce

1. In the same skillet:
   1. Sprinkle in flour; whisk well.
   2. Slowly pour in heavy cream and milk while whisking constantly until thickened.

Step 7: Combine Filling Ingredients

1. Stir in:
   – Dijon mustard
   – Lemon zest
   – Shredded white cheddar
   – Parmesan cheese

Mix until smooth.

Step 8: Assemble the Pie

Return shrimp mixture to skillet:
1. Stir to combine everything well.
2. Pour filling into pre-baked pie crust evenly.

Step 9: Prepare Topping

In a small bowl:
1. Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and additional Parmesan cheese plus parsley.
2. Sprinkle evenly over the top of your pie.

Step 10: Bake

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes until golden brown and bubbling.

Step 11: Cool & Serve

Let cool for about 5-10 minutes before slicing:
Serve warm with fresh salad or coleslaw on the side! Drizzle with extra lemon juice or hot sauce if desired for added flavor!

How to Serve Florida Shrimp Pie

Serving Florida Shrimp Pie is all about enhancing its delightful flavors while offering a well-rounded meal. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this delicious seafood dish.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes dressed in a vinaigrette can balance the richness of the pie.
• Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons add texture and flavor that complements the shrimp pie perfectly.

Add Roasted Vegetables

• Seasonal Veggies: Roasting vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus brings out their natural sweetness, making them an excellent side.
• Root Vegetables: Carrots, potatoes, or beets roasted with olive oil and herbs can provide a hearty addition to your meal.

Serve with Coleslaw

• Creamy Coleslaw: The crunchiness of coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy shrimp filling. Consider using a tangy dressing for extra zest.

Enjoy with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover filling or sauce from the pie.
• Cornbread: This Southern staple pairs beautifully with Florida Shrimp Pie, adding a slightly sweet note to your meal.

Drizzle with Extra Sauce

• Lemon Butter Sauce: A simple lemon butter sauce can enhance the pie’s flavor while adding a touch of brightness.
• Hot Sauce: For those who love heat, offering various hot sauces can let guests customize their spice level.

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How to Perfect Florida Shrimp Pie

To ensure your Florida Shrimp Pie turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Opt for fresh Gulf shrimp if available. This will enhance both flavor and texture.
• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Cook shrimp until just pink; they will continue cooking in the oven.
• Pre-bake Your Crust: Lightly pre-baking the crust helps prevent sogginess and gives it a lovely golden color.
• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Feel free to tweak spices like Old Bay or cayenne pepper according to your preference for heat.
• Let It Cool Before Slicing: Allowing the pie to rest helps it set and makes slicing easier without losing filling.
• Experiment with Cheeses: While white cheddar is great, try other cheeses like Gouda or Monterey Jack for different flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Florida Shrimp Pie

Pairing side dishes with your Florida Shrimp Pie can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that complements seafood.
2. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter offers a delicious crunch alongside the rich pie.
3. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled with lemon enhances freshness while adding color to your plate.
4. Fried Green Tomatoes: This Southern classic provides a crispy texture that contrasts nicely with the creamy pie.
5. Quinoa Salad: A healthy quinoa salad with diced vegetables and lemon dressing adds nutrition and flavor diversity.
6. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries bring natural sweetness and are fun finger food for casual dining.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Florida Shrimp Pie, it’s easy to overlook a few key aspects that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Skipping the Pre-Baking: Not pre-baking the pie crust can lead to a soggy bottom. Always bake your crust for about 10 minutes before adding the filling.
• Overcooking the Shrimp: Cooking shrimp for too long can make them tough. Ensure they turn pink but remove them from heat as soon as they’re cooked through.
• Ignoring Flavor Balancing: Forgetting to taste and adjust seasoning can result in blandness. Always taste your filling and add more spices as needed.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Starting with cold ingredients can affect the creaminess of your filling. Always bring dairy products to room temperature before mixing.
• Not Allowing Cooling Time: Cutting into the pie too soon can cause it to fall apart. Let it cool for at least 5-10 minutes before slicing.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Florida Shrimp Pie in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Florida Shrimp Pie

• Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Florida Shrimp Pie

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, flipping occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Florida Shrimp Pie.

Can I use frozen shrimp for Florida Shrimp Pie?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just ensure they are thawed, peeled, and deveined before cooking.

What other seafood works well in this pie?

You can substitute or add crab meat, scallops, or even fish like grouper for variety.

How spicy is Florida Shrimp Pie?

The level of spice depends on whether you include cayenne pepper. You can adjust it according to your preference.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge before baking.

Final Thoughts

Florida Shrimp Pie is not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. You can customize this recipe by adding different seafood or adjusting spices to your liking. Give this comforting dish a try; it’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering!