Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie

As I sliced into my latest culinary creation, the rich aroma of melted Cheddar mingling with the fresh notes of shrimp and herbs filled my kitchen, transporting me to the sunny shores of Florida. This Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie is a delightful surprise that brings the beach to your dinner table, effortlessly blending the comfort of a classic pie with the vibrant flavors of the ocean.

With just a handful of simple ingredients, this dish transforms into a stunning centerpiece that feels fancy yet is incredibly easy to whip up, making it a perfect weeknight indulgence or a standout at your next gathering. Picture golden pastry cradling succulent shrimp, sautéed veggies, and a creamy custard, all topped with a layer of cheesy goodness—what’s not to love?

Whether you’re trying to escape the fast-food rut or impress guests at a potluck, this pie marries simplicity with gourmet flair. So let’s dive in and make a dish that’s as satisfying as it is delicious!

Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie Ingredients

For the Crust

• Unbaked 9-inch pastry shell – This buttery shell serves as the perfect base for our shrimp filling.

For the Filling

• Fresh shrimp – One pound of peeled and deveined shrimp brings the taste of Florida right to your plate; feel free to substitute with cooked crab or lobster for a twist.
• Butter – Just a tablespoon adds richness and depth to the sautéed veggies.
• Onion – ¼ cup of finely chopped onion enhances the flavor profile with a gentle sweetness.
• Green bell pepper – ¼ cup finely chopped provides a crunchy contrast and a pop of color to the dish.
• Celery – ¼ cup finely chopped adds a nice crisp texture.
• Garlic – One clove, minced, infuses the pie with a lovely aromatic quality.

For the Custard

• Mayonnaise – ½ cup results in a creamy filling that binds all the ingredients deliciously.
• Milk – ½ cup helps to achieve a velvety texture; almond milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative.
• Large eggs – Two eggs act as the perfect binder for our custard mix.
• Lemon juice – One tablespoon brightens the flavors and balances the richness of the pie.
• Worcestershire sauce – 1 teaspoon adds a wonderful umami depth to the mix.
• Salt – ½ teaspoon enhances all the flavors in the dish.
• Black pepper – ¼ teaspoon adds a hint of warmth; go ahead and adjust to your liking.
• Cayenne pepper – ¼ teaspoon provides a subtle kick that beautifully complements the seafood.

For Topping

• Shredded Cheddar cheese – 1 cup sprinkled on top creates a golden, bubbling layer of cheesy goodness that’s hard to resist in this Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie.

How to Make Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place your unbaked pastry shell onto a baking sheet, ensuring it’s secured and ready for that flavorful filling.

2. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion, green bell pepper, celery, and garlic, sautéing until the vegetables are soft and translucent—about 3-5 minutes.

3. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until they turn pink and opaque, which takes about 3-4 minutes. Remember to drain any excess liquid after cooking to keep the pie from getting soggy.

4. Whisk together the mayonnaise and milk in a mixing bowl until smooth. Then, incorporate the eggs, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper, blending until the mixture is well combined and creamy.

5. Distribute the shrimp and sautéed vegetables evenly over the pastry shell. Pour the custard mixture over the filling, and finally, sprinkle the shredded Cheddar cheese across the top for that melty goodness.

6. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown, bubbling with deliciousness.

7. Remove the pie from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This waiting time helps the flavors meld beautifully.

Optional: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie?

As you savor the delightful layers of this shrimp pie, consider complementing the dish with some of these mouthwatering sides.

• Garlic Bread:
  The crunchy, buttery goodness of garlic bread offers a delightful contrast to the creamy pie. Perfect for soaking up every last bit of flavor!

• Mixed Green Salad:
  A fresh salad with vibrant greens and a zesty vinaigrette lightens the meal, adding a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the pie.

• Coleslaw:
  Creamy coleslaw with a hint of tanginess adds a crisp texture that pairs wonderfully with the savory shrimp filling.

• Roasted Asparagus:
  Tender, roasted asparagus drizzled with olive oil enhances the dish with a lovely charred flavor, while providing a vibrant pop of color.

• Corn on the Cob:
  Sweet, juicy corn on the cob is a delightful seasonal side that brings a taste of summer to your meal, enhancing the coastal vibe.

• Chardonnay:
  A chilled glass of Chardonnay pairs beautifully, enhancing the shrimp’s flavors while providing a lovely acidity to cut through the pie’s richness.

• Lemon Sorbet:
  A refreshing lemon sorbet served as dessert cleanses the palate and leaves a zesty finish to your shrimp-filled feast.

These pairings create a delightful dining experience that elevates your Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie into a full culinary journey!

Make Ahead Options

This Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie is perfect for meal prep, making your weeknights stress-free! You can sauté the vegetables and shrimp up to 24 hours in advance, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Additionally, the custard mixture can be whisked together and refrigerated until you’re ready to assemble. When it’s time to bake, simply fill the pastry shell, pour the custard mixture over the filling, and top with cheese. Bake as directed for a pie that tastes just as delicious as if made fresh that day! Enjoy the time-saving benefits of prepping ahead while still impressing your family!

How to Store and Freeze Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie

Fridge: Store any leftover Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 2 months; this prevents freezer burn and keeps it delicious.

Reheating: Reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is melty. Alternatively, use a microwave, heating in short intervals for 1-2 minutes.

Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie Variations

Feel free to make this delightful pie your own with these creative twists and substitutions!

• Seafood Medley: Swap shrimp for a mix of your favorite seafood, like crab, scallops, or even diced fish for a deeper ocean taste.
• Spice Level: For a mild flavor, reduce cayenne pepper or omit it entirely; add sliced jalapeños for a nice kick if you love heat!
• Cheese Options: Experiment with cheeses like Gruyère or pepper jack for a new flavor profile; a blend can add a delightful depth!
• Vegetable Boost: Add ½ cup of steamed broccoli or spinach to the filling for added nutrition and vibrant color. The veggies will add both texture and flavor!
• Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute mayonnaise with vegan mayo and use almond or oat milk for a completely dairy-free pie that still tastes amazing.
• Crust Variations: Try a whole wheat or gluten-free pastry shell to suit dietary preferences without compromising texture or flavor. You might even love the nutty flavor!
• Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like dill or parsley into the custard for a refreshing herbal note that pairs beautifully with seafood.
• Citrus Zing: Enhance the flavor by adding zest from a lemon or lime to the custard; it brings an extra brightness that perfectly complements the shrimp.

Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the freshest flavor, look for shrimp that are firm, fleshy, and have a slight sea scent. Avoid shrimp with dark spots, as this can indicate age. If possible, buy the shrimp still in their shell and peel them at home to ensure maximum freshness.

How should I store leftover Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie?
To maintain freshness, store any leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before putting it into the fridge to prevent condensation.

Can I freeze Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie?
Very! You can freeze the pie for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, to prevent freezer burn. This method allows you to enjoy a homemade meal that’s ready to bake at a moment’s notice!

What’s the best way to reheat the pie?
To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place a slice of pie in the oven for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is bubbly. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too; heat in 1-2 minute intervals until hot.

Are there any dietary considerations for the shrimp pie?
Absolutely! For those with shellfish allergies, consider substituting shrimp with cooked chicken or mushrooms for a similar texture. If you’re serving guests with different dietary needs, check for egg-free or gluten-free options for the crust, as traditional pastry may not suit everyone.

What if the pie comes out watery?
If you encounter a watery pie, it’s usually a sign of excess liquid from the shrimp or vegetables. To prevent this, ensure you sauté the vegetables until soft and drain any excess liquid from the cooked shrimp before adding to the pie. Letting it rest after baking allows juices to settle, making slicing easier.

Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie

This Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie combines rich Cheddar, fresh shrimp, and vibrant herbs for a delightful dinner that transports you to sunny shores.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Resting Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 6 slices

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

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Crust

• 1 unbaked 9-inch pastry shell This buttery shell serves as the perfect base for our shrimp filling.

Filling

• 1 pound fresh shrimp Peeled and deveined; feel free to substitute with cooked crab or lobster.
• 1 tablespoon butter Adds richness to the sautéed veggies.
• 0.25 cup onion Finely chopped.
• 0.25 cup green bell pepper Finely chopped.
• 0.25 cup celery Finely chopped.
• 1 clove garlic Minced.

Custard

• 0.5 cup mayonnaise Creates a creamy filling.
• 0.5 cup milk Almond milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative.
• 2 large eggs Acts as a binder.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice Brightens the flavors.
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce Adds umami depth.
• 0.5 teaspoon salt Enhances overall flavors.
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper Adjust to your liking.
• 0.25 teaspoon cayenne pepper Provides a subtle kick.

Topping

• 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese Creates a golden, bubbling layer on top.

Equipment

• Large skillet
• mixing bowl
• Baking Sheet

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place your unbaked pastry shell onto a baking sheet, ensuring it's secured and ready for that flavorful filling.
2. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion, green bell pepper, celery, and garlic, sautéing until the vegetables are soft and translucent—about 3-5 minutes.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until they turn pink and opaque, which takes about 3-4 minutes. Drain any excess liquid after cooking.
4. Whisk together the mayonnaise and milk in a mixing bowl until smooth. Incorporate the eggs, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper, blending until creamy.
5. Distribute the shrimp and sautéed vegetables evenly over the pastry shell. Pour the custard mixture over the filling, and sprinkle the shredded Cheddar cheese on top.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown.
7. Remove the pie from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1slicesCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 180mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for added freshness.

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