This Florida Shrimp Pie is a delightful blend of fresh seafood, creamy custard, and savory vegetables, all baked to perfection in a flaky pastry shell. With its rich flavors and vibrant ingredients, this dish captures the essence of coastal cuisine. Perfect for brunch, dinner, or entertaining guests, it’s a show-stopping recipe that’s surprisingly easy to make.
📋 Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pastry shell
For the Seafood:
- 1 pound fresh shrimp , peeled and deveined
For the Vegetables and Aromatics:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- ¼ cup onion , finely chopped
- ¼ cup green bell pepper , finely chopped
- ¼ cup celery , finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic , minced
For the Custard Filling:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
For the Topping:
- 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) .
- Place the unbaked pastry shell onto a baking sheet for easy handling and stability during baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp and Vegetables
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat .
- Add the onion , green bell pepper , celery , and garlic . Sauté for 5–7 minutes , or until the vegetables are soft and translucent.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes , or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove from heat and drain any excess liquid to prevent a soggy pie.
Step 3: Make the Custard Filling
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and milk until smooth.
- Incorporate the eggs , lemon juice , Worcestershire sauce , salt , black pepper , and cayenne pepper . Blend until the mixture is well combined and slightly frothy.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
- Distribute the cooked shrimp and vegetable mixture evenly over the bottom of the pastry shell.
- Pour the custard filling over the shrimp and vegetables, ensuring an even layer.
- Sprinkle the shredded Cheddar cheese generously across the top.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes , or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown. To check for doneness, insert a knife into the center—it should come out clean.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
- Remove the pie from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the custard to set further and makes serving easier.
- Slice and serve warm, enjoying the creamy, cheesy, and flavorful goodness of this Florida Shrimp Pie.
Tips for Success
- Shrimp Prep: Use fresh or frozen shrimp—just ensure they’re peeled and deveined. Pat them dry with paper towels before cooking to prevent excess moisture.
- Pastry Shell: For convenience, use a store-bought pastry shell, or make your own homemade crust if you prefer.
- Cheese Variations: Swap Cheddar for Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days . Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Freezing: Freeze the unbaked pie (without the cheese topping) for up to 3 months . Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, add the cheese, and bake as directed.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Florida Shrimp Pie is a celebration of fresh seafood and bold flavors, all wrapped in a buttery, flaky crust. The creamy custard filling, packed with shrimp and aromatic vegetables, is elevated by the tangy bite of lemon juice and Worcestershire sauce. Topped with gooey, melted Cheddar cheese, this dish is both comforting and elegant. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or simply craving something indulgent, this pie is sure to impress. Dive into this coastal-inspired masterpiece and let it become a favorite in your recipe collection!
⏱ Time
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30–35 minutes
- Total Time: ~50–55 minutes
🍽 Servings:
6–8 servings
🔥 Calories (Approximate):
~350 kcal per serving (varies based on portion size and ingredients)
