Let me tell you about Florida Shrimp Pie—it’s like a warm hug on a plate! This dish has a special place in my heart because it reminds me of sunny days by the coast, where fresh shrimp is abundant and the flavors are just bursting with life. The combination of creamy filling, tender shrimp, and a cheesy topping makes every bite a celebration of comfort. I love how easy it is to whip up, yet it feels fancy enough to impress guests at a dinner party. Trust me, once you take a forkful of this savory pie, the delightful mix of spices and textures will transport you straight to a beachside café in Florida, even if you’re just in your kitchen. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into this delicious recipe together!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful Florida Shrimp Pie. I promise, these ingredients work together to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor!
1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade, your choice!)
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded (feel free to use sharp for a bolder flavor!)
1/2 cup green onions, chopped (the more, the merrier!)
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (this is the secret ingredient that ties it all together!)
Salt and pepper to taste (don’t be shy with the seasoning!)
How to Prepare Florida Shrimp Pie
Now, let’s get our hands dirty and whip up this fantastic Florida Shrimp Pie! It’s a straightforward process, and I promise you’ll be amazed at how everything comes together. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious pie ready to bake in no time!
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is key for getting that perfect golden crust!
In a large mixing bowl, toss together your peeled and deveined shrimp, chopped green onions, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Make sure the shrimp is coated well—this is where the flavor starts to shine!
In another bowl, whisk together the two large eggs and heavy cream until frothy. You want to really beat that air in for a lovely, rich filling.
Now, gently fold the shrimp mixture into the egg and cream mixture. Don’t rush this part—mix until everything is just combined, and then stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. This adds that gooey, cheesy goodness we all love!
Pour this delightful mixture into your prepared pie crust, and spread it out evenly. It should look colorful and inviting!
Pop it into your preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the center is set and the top is beautifully golden brown. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Once baked, let the pie cool for a few minutes before slicing. This resting time helps everything settle and makes serving so much easier—trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Nutritional Information
Let’s talk numbers! Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for a slice of this delicious Florida Shrimp Pie. Keep in mind, these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, but this should give you a good idea:
Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 320
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Sodium: 450mg
Carbohydrates: 24g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 14g
Cholesterol: 150mg
So there you have it! This pie is not only delicious but also packs a nutritious punch, making it a great option for a satisfying meal. Enjoy every bite, knowing you’re indulging in something that’s as good for your taste buds as it is for your body!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and Easy: This Florida Shrimp Pie comes together in no time, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of shrimp, cheese, and Old Bay seasoning creates a savory filling that’s full of bright, zesty flavors.
Healthy Option: Packed with protein and low in fat, this pie is a satisfying meal that won’t weigh you down.
Perfect for Sharing: With eight generous servings, it’s a great dish for feeding family and friends at any occasion.
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap shrimp for crab or lobster, or add in your favorite veggies to customize this dish to your liking!
Comfort Food: It’s the ultimate cozy dish that warms you from the inside out, perfect for any season.
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your Florida Shrimp Pie turns out absolutely perfect! I’ve got some tried-and-true tips that will help elevate your dish to the next level.
Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Since shrimp cooks quickly, make sure not to overdo it when mixing them in. You only want them to be just cooked through when they come out of the oven; they’ll finish cooking in the pie. Nothing worse than rubbery shrimp!
Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on your pie while it bakes. You’re looking for a firm center and a golden brown top. If you notice the edges browning too quickly, you can cover them with a bit of foil to prevent burning.
Let It Rest: Patience is key! Allow the pie to cool for about 10 minutes after baking. This resting time helps it set, making it much easier to slice and serve. Plus, it’s a great time to let those flavors mingle!
Use a Deep Dish Crust: If you’re a fan of extra filling, consider using a deep-dish pie crust. This allows for more delicious filling and ensures you won’t overflow your pie.
Taste as You Go: Don’t forget to taste your mixture before filling the crust. Adjust the seasoning to your liking—sometimes a little extra salt or Old Bay can make all the difference!
Experiment with Cheese: While I love cheddar in this recipe, feel free to mix it up! A blend of cheeses can add depth—think about trying Monterey Jack or even a sprinkle of Parmesan for a unique twist.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have a Florida Shrimp Pie that’s not only beautiful but also bursting with flavor. Trust me, your friends and family will be raving about it!
Variations of Florida Shrimp Pie
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to switch up this Florida Shrimp Pie! Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for the creativity. Here are some delightful variations you can try:
Crab or Lobster: Swap out the shrimp for lump crab meat or sweet lobster. Both seafood options will give your pie a luxurious twist and elevate the flavor to another level!
Veggie Delight: Add some chopped bell peppers, spinach, or even diced tomatoes to the shrimp mixture for a pop of color and extra nutrients. It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies!
Spicy Kick: If you love a bit of heat, toss in some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the filling. That little kick will take your pie from delicious to downright addictive!
Cheesy Goodness: Experiment with different cheeses! Try using pepper jack for a spicy twist, or a creamy goat cheese for a tangy flavor. A mix of cheeses can create a wonderful depth of flavor.
Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or cilantro can brighten up the pie. Just chop them finely and fold them into the filling for an aromatic boost.
Breakfast Pie: Make it a brunch favorite by adding in some crumbled bacon or sausage along with the shrimp. Trust me, it’s a game-changer for a weekend gathering!
Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your own signature version of Florida Shrimp Pie. The possibilities are endless, and that’s what makes cooking so much fun! Enjoy experimenting!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve baked this mouthwatering Florida Shrimp Pie, it’s time to think about how to serve it up! This dish is so versatile, and there are plenty of delicious options to complement its savory goodness.
Side Salad: A fresh, crisp salad is the perfect partner for this pie. I love a simple mixed greens salad tossed with a light vinaigrette. The acidity of the dressing really balances out the richness of the pie!
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds a nice crunch and a bit of zing. The cool, creamy texture contrasts beautifully with the warm, cheesy filling of the pie.
Roasted Vegetables: Serve with a side of roasted seasonal vegetables for a colorful plate. Think carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers drizzled with olive oil and herbs—yum!
Garlic Bread: If you’re feeling indulgent, some warm garlic bread is a delightful addition. Dipping pieces of garlic bread into the filling is pure joy!
Wine Pairing: For beverages, I highly recommend a crisp white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc or a Pinot Grigio. Their refreshing notes enhance the flavors of the shrimp beautifully.
Refreshing Beverages: If you prefer non-alcoholic drinks, a chilled iced tea or sparkling lemonade adds a nice touch. They’re both refreshing and perfect for cutting through the richness!
These pairings will elevate your dining experience and make your Florida Shrimp Pie the star of the show. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to share with friends and family—after all, great food tastes even better when shared!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? No problem! Florida Shrimp Pie is just as delightful the next day, and I’ve got the best tips to keep it tasting fabulous. Here’s how to store and reheat your pie without losing any of that delicious flavor.
First, let your pie cool completely at room temperature after baking. Once it’s cooled, you can cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. If you have an airtight container, that works perfectly too! This will help keep it fresh and prevent any drying out in the fridge.
Now, you can store your Florida Shrimp Pie in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it! Just slice it into portions, wrap each slice in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It’ll stay good in the freezer for up to 2 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy your pie again, reheating is a breeze. If it’s frozen, simply transfer it to the fridge the night before to thaw. For reheating, I recommend using the oven for the best results. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the pie or individual slices on a baking sheet, and cover lightly with foil to keep it from browning too much. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. If you’re in a hurry, you can also pop it in the microwave, but keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking. Just a minute or two should do the trick!
And there you have it! With these storage and reheating tips, your Florida Shrimp Pie will be just as scrumptious as when it came out of the oven. Enjoy every tasty bite, even on day two!
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