If you’re craving a dish that captures the fresh, vibrant taste of the coast, Florida Shrimp Pie is the perfect choice. This savory seafood pie blends tender shrimp, creamy filling, aromatic vegetables, and a flaky crust into a comforting yet elegant meal. Popular in coastal communities across the southern United States—especially in Florida—this dish brings together Southern hospitality and ocean-fresh flavor in every bite.
Whether you’re hosting a brunch, preparing a family dinner, or looking for something special for a gathering, Florida Shrimp Pie delivers rich taste, satisfying texture, and impressive presentation.
What Is Florida Shrimp Pie?
Florida Shrimp Pie is a savory seafood pie made with fresh shrimp, eggs or cream, cheese, herbs, and vegetables baked inside a pastry crust. Think of it as a coastal twist on a quiche or pot pie, with bold Southern flavors and a creamy, custard-like interior.
The dish reflects Florida’s abundance of Gulf and Atlantic shrimp, combining them with simple ingredients that highlight their natural sweetness.
Why Florida Shrimp Pie Is So Popular
Fresh Coastal Flavor
Florida is known for its high-quality shrimp harvested from the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. The freshness of local seafood elevates this dish from ordinary to exceptional.
Comfort Food with Elegance
It’s hearty enough for a casual meal yet refined enough for entertaining guests.
Versatile Serving Options
Brunch centerpiece
Light dinner with salad
Holiday seafood alternative
Potluck favorite
Ingredients for Classic Florida Shrimp Pie
To make authentic Florida Shrimp Pie, use fresh, high-quality ingredients.
For the Crust
1 prepared pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
Or a buttery shortcrust pastry
For the Filling
1 pound fresh shrimp (peeled, deveined, chopped)
1 small onion, finely diced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
3 large eggs
1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (optional but recommended)
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
Using fresh shrimp makes a noticeable difference in texture and flavor. If using frozen shrimp, thaw and pat dry thoroughly.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Florida Shrimp Pie
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Place the pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish and crimp the edges. Pre-bake (blind bake) for about 8–10 minutes to prevent sogginess.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter or heat olive oil.
Sauté onion, bell pepper, and garlic until soft (about 3–4 minutes).
Add shrimp and cook until just pink—about 2–3 minutes. Do not overcook, as shrimp will cook further in the oven.
Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Step 3: Prepare the Custard Mixture
In a bowl, whisk together:
Eggs
Cream
Cheese
Parsley
Seasonings
Stir in the cooked shrimp mixture.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Pour the filling into the pre-baked crust.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is lightly golden.
Let the pie rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing. This helps the filling firm up for clean slices.
What Makes Florida Shrimp Pie Special?
1. Sweet, Tender Shrimp
Florida shrimp have a naturally sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with creamy ingredients.
2. Southern Seasonings
Seasonings like Old Bay, paprika, or Cajun spice add subtle heat and depth.
3. Creamy, Custard Texture
The egg-and-cream base creates a rich, silky consistency similar to a seafood quiche.
Delicious Variations of Florida Shrimp Pie
This dish is incredibly adaptable.
Spicy Cajun Shrimp Pie
Add diced jalapeños and a teaspoon of Cajun seasoning for bold heat.
Crab and Shrimp Pie
Mix in lump crab meat for an even richer seafood experience.
Low-Carb Version
Skip the crust and bake the filling in a greased pie dish for a crustless shrimp pie.
Tomato Basil Shrimp Pie
Add cherry tomatoes and fresh basil for a bright, summery twist.
Practical Tips for the Perfect Florida Shrimp Pie
✔ Don’t Overcook the Shrimp
Shrimp cook quickly. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery.
✔ Drain Excess Liquid
Shrimp release moisture. Pat them dry before cooking to avoid a watery pie.
✔ Use Quality Cheese
Sharp cheddar adds depth, while Monterey Jack offers creaminess.
✔ Let It Rest Before Cutting
This ensures neat slices and proper texture.
✔ Taste Before Baking
Adjust seasoning in the filling before pouring into the crust.
Best Side Dishes to Serve with Florida Shrimp Pie
Pair your Florida Shrimp Pie with:
Fresh garden salad with citrus vinaigrette
Roasted asparagus
Steamed green beans
Garlic bread
Coleslaw
Southern-style cornbread
For brunch, serve alongside fresh fruit and iced tea.
Storing and Reheating Florida Shrimp Pie
Refrigeration
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
You can freeze baked shrimp pie for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
Reheating
Reheat in the oven at 325°F (165°C) for 15–20 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the crust soggy.
Nutritional Overview
While rich and satisfying, Florida Shrimp Pie provides valuable nutrients:
High-quality protein from shrimp
Calcium from cheese
Omega-3 fatty acids
Vitamins from vegetables
Approximate nutrition per slice:
Calories: 350–450
Protein: 20–25g
Carbohydrates: 20–25g
Fat: 25–30g
You can lighten the dish by using half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reducing cheese slightly.
Why Homemade Florida Shrimp Pie Is Worth It
Making Florida Shrimp Pie at home allows you to:
Control ingredient quality
Adjust seasoning levels
Use fresh local seafood
Avoid preservatives
Customize flavors
The homemade version always tastes fresher and more vibrant than store-bought alternatives.
Conclusion: Bring Coastal Comfort to Your Table
Florida Shrimp Pie is a delicious celebration of coastal cooking. Creamy, savory, and packed with tender shrimp, it combines Southern comfort with fresh seafood flavor. Perfect for brunch, dinner, or special occasions, this dish is both impressive and surprisingly easy to prepare.
With simple ingredients, careful seasoning, and proper cooking techniques, you can create a shrimp pie that’s rich, satisfying, and full of authentic Florida flair. Whether served warm from the oven or reheated the next day, Florida Shrimp Pie delivers comfort and coastal charm in every slice.