Florida Shrimp Pie Recipe
Get ready to fall head over heels for Florida Shrimp Pie, a comforting, coastal-inspired treat that’s equal parts homey and captivating. Imagine the most luscious, juicy shrimp simmered with garlic and cream, nestled between dreamy mashed potatoes and an irresistibly flaky crust. Whether you’re craving a taste of the beach or looking for something unique to surprise your dinner guests, this dish brings together flavors that feel both sunny and decadent. One bite and you’ll be wishing you could bottle up those Florida seaside vibes all year long.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What I love most about this Florida Shrimp Pie is how a few straightforward, quality ingredients come together with such harmony. Each one has an important role to play, from the tender mash to the rich creamy filling and pops of garlicky shrimp that steal the show.
- Shrimp (1 lb, peeled and deveined): Select the freshest shrimp you can find—this is your star ingredient, delivering sweet, briny bites in every forkful.
- Mashed potatoes (2 cups): Creamy mash creates a soft, pillowy base that soaks up all the luscious flavors from the shrimp and sauce.
- Garlic cloves (2, minced): Garlic’s aromatic punch elevates the seafood layer and infuses every mouthful with warmth.
- Butter (2 tbsp): Melting butter not only cooks the garlic and shrimp gently but adds a rich, indulgent undercurrent to the pie.
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup): This gives the filling a silky, velvety texture you’ll crave more of.
- Salt & pepper (to taste): Essential for balancing flavors, so taste often as you go!
- Paprika (1 tsp): For a gentle kick of heat and a gorgeous golden blush in the cream sauce.
- Pie crust (pre-made or homemade, 1): Flaky pastry holds everything together and adds a buttery crunch—store-bought works just fine, or go homemade if you’re feeling ambitious.
- Fresh parsley (2 tbsp, chopped): This fresh finishing touch adds an herbaceous brightness and beautiful flecks of green.
How to Make Florida Shrimp Pie
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
First things first: set your oven to 375°F (190°C). This gives your oven plenty of time to come up to temp so your pie bakes evenly and the crust turns out perfectly golden.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Shrimp
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat, then toss in the minced garlic. Stir for about 30 seconds, just until the kitchen smells incredible and the garlic is fragrant. Next, add your shrimp and cook until they’ve turned a beautiful pink and are cooked through—about 2 to 3 minutes. Be careful not to overcook; nobody wants rubbery shrimp!
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
With the shrimp still in the pan, add the heavy cream, paprika, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Let everything simmer gently for another 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally. The cream will thicken slightly and turn a dreamy blush color. Taste, and adjust your seasoning as you like.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
Grab your favorite pie dish and lay out the pie crust in the base. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the crust to form a hearty lower layer. Next, spoon that garlic-cream shrimp mixture over the potatoes, making sure to spread everything out so every slice is full of flavor. Sprinkle fresh parsley over top for that inviting, herby lift.
Step 5: Add Your Top Crust and Bake
If you’re going for a traditional look, place a second crust on top, sealing and crimping the edges. Cut a few small vents for steam to escape. If you like a more rustic feel, keep it open-faced. Slide the pie into your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the crust is crisp and deeply golden. Let your senses guide you—a perfectly baked Florida Shrimp Pie smells like heaven!
How to Serve Florida Shrimp Pie
Garnishes
For that extra flourish, sprinkle a bit more fresh parsley over the top right before serving, or a squeeze of fresh lemon for brightness. You could even add a few dashes of hot sauce if your crew appreciates a little zip!
Side Dishes
Keep things simple and fresh alongside your Florida Shrimp Pie. I love to serve it with a peppery arugula salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette or some grilled asparagus. Crusty bread for mopping up any leftover sauce is also never a bad idea!
Creative Ways to Present
Make it mini! Use small ramekins to create adorable, individual Florida Shrimp Pie servings—perfect for parties or brunch. Or, cut the finished pie into squares and serve them as elegant hors d’oeuvres at your next gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any pie left, let it cool fully before covering tightly with foil or transferring to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors meld beautifully and it reheats like a dream.
Freezing
Florida Shrimp Pie can be frozen either whole or in slices. Allow it to cool completely, wrap well in plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to two months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To enjoy your pie again, warm slices in a 350°F (175°C) oven, loosely covered with foil, until heated through (about 15–20 minutes). The crust stays crisper this way than if you use a microwave, though do what works for you!
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for Florida Shrimp Pie?
Absolutely! Just thaw and pat them dry thoroughly before cooking so the pie doesn’t become watery.
Can I substitute the pie crust with something gluten free?
Yes, a gluten free pie crust works beautifully here, or you can even go crustless and bake the filling in a casserole dish for a lighter twist.
What type of potatoes should I use for the mashed layer?
Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes make the creamiest base, but any mashing potato will do—use your favorite!
Can I add vegetables to the filling?
Definitely! Diced bell peppers, sweet corn, or even wilted spinach add fun color and extra flavor to your Florida Shrimp Pie.
Is it possible to make Florida Shrimp Pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the pie up to one day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake as instructed, adding a few extra minutes if going straight from the fridge.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to bring a taste of the coast to your table, Florida Shrimp Pie is a showstopper with layers upon layers of comfort and flavor. It’s one of those special recipes that sparks conversation and creates lasting memories. I hope you’ll give this a try soon—let it become a new favorite in your kitchen, too!
