Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that perfectly marries the sweet, succulent flavors of fresh seafood with rich, tangy cheese, then you absolutely have to try this Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie. This savory delight bursts with layers of tender shrimp, sautéed veggies, and creamy cheddar-infused custard nestled in a flaky pastry shell. The Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie isn’t just a meal; it’s a comforting celebration of fresh ingredients and bold flavors that promises to become a beloved favorite for any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple ingredients make this dish shine, each bringing its own special touch. From the fresh shrimp’s briny sweetness to the sharpness of Cheddar cheese, and the aromatic trio of onion, bell pepper, and celery, every component is crucial in crafting the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color.

• Unbaked 23 cm pastry shell: Provides a buttery and flaky base that holds everything together beautifully.
• 450 g fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star of the show, offering tender seafood flavor.
• 15 ml unsalted butter: Adds richness to sautéed vegetables and helps build depth.
• 60 ml onion, finely chopped: Brings a subtle sweetness and aromatic foundation.
• 60 ml green bell pepper, finely chopped: Offers a fresh crunch and vibrant color.
• 60 ml celery, finely chopped: Adds a mildly earthy note and texture contrast.
• 1 garlic clove, minced: Infuses a sharp, savory punch to the filling.
• 120 ml mayonnaise: Contributes creaminess and binds the custard together smoothly.
• 120 ml whole milk: Lightens the custard without sacrificing richness.
• 2 large eggs: Essential for setting the custard filling firmly.
• 15 ml lemon juice: Brightens the flavors and cuts through richness.
• 5 ml Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami depth and subtle tang.
• 2.5 ml salt: Enhances all the natural flavors in the pie.
• 1.25 ml ground black pepper: Provides mild heat and complexity.
• 1.25 ml cayenne pepper: Kicks up the spice for a pleasant warmth.
• 100 g Cheddar cheese, shredded: Melts into the custard, lending sharpness and gooey texture.

How to Make Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie

Step 1: Prepare Oven and Pastry Shell

Start by preheating your oven to 220°C so it’s ready to bake the pie to a perfectly golden finish. Gently place your unbaked 23 cm pastry shell onto a baking sheet—this will help catch any spills and make transferring to the oven easier. This flaky shell is the foundation that will cradle every delicious bite of the Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables and Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter to create a luscious base for your fillings. Toss in the finely chopped onion, green bell pepper, celery, and minced garlic, and sauté them until they soften and turn translucent. This aromatic mixture brings a wonderful freshness that balances the richness ahead. Add in the shrimp next, cooking just until they turn pink and opaque, signaling their tenderness without becoming rubbery. Once cooked, remove the skillet from heat and drain any excess liquid to avoid sogginess in your pie.

Step 3: Create Custard Mixture

While the shrimp and vegetables cool slightly, prepare the luscious custard that will bind the pie together. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and whole milk until silky smooth. This blend ensures your custard is rich yet light. Beat in the eggs, then fold in lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper for layers of brightness, earthiness, and a gentle kick. Whisk thoroughly so all the flavors meld into a harmonious filling.

Step 4: Assemble Pie

Now comes the fun part—bringing together all your prepared ingredients. Evenly distribute the sautéed shrimp and vegetable mixture across the pastry shell, creating a savory canvas. Pour the custard mixture gently over the filling, making sure it seeps into every crevice. Finally, generously sprinkle the shredded Cheddar cheese on top. This cheese will melt over the pie, creating a beautiful golden crust full of sharp, creamy flavor that’s integral to the Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie experience.

Step 5: Bake

Carefully transfer the pie on the baking sheet into your preheated oven. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, keeping an eye on the surface until it turns a stunning golden brown and the filling is fully set. The aroma of bubbly cheese, seasoned shrimp, and buttery crust fills the kitchen, making it impossible to wait for the first bite.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This pause allows the filling to finish setting perfectly, which makes for clean, satisfying slices. Serving your Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie warm maximizes its creamy texture and showcases the blend of flavors that make this dish irresistibly comforting.

How to Serve Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie

Garnishes

To elevate your presentation and add fresh contrast, consider garnishing with finely chopped parsley or chives. A light sprinkle of paprika or a few lemon wedges on the side can also brighten both the look and the taste, enhancing the natural zestiness of the pie.

Side Dishes

Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie pairs beautifully with crisp, refreshing sides. A simple green salad tossed in vinaigrette cuts through the richness, while steamed asparagus or roasted vegetables add complementary textures. For a more indulgent experience, creamy coleslaw or garlic mashed potatoes make perfect companions.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re hosting guests or want to impress, serve this pie in individual ramekins for personalized portions. Alternatively, slice it thick and plate with a drizzle of hot sauce or a dollop of sour cream to enhance its southern charm. Adding a colorful sprinkle of finely diced red bell peppers or fresh herbs transforms the dish into a feast for both the eyes and palate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to preserve its flavors and prevent it from drying out. This allows you to enjoy the magic of the pie even days after baking.

Freezing

You can freeze leftover pie slices for up to two months. For best results, wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. When thawed, the flavors remain remarkably fresh, making it an excellent option for make-ahead meals.

Reheating

To bring refrigerated or thawed Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie back to life, reheat in a 175°C oven for 15-20 minutes until warmed through and the crust is crisp again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as this can make the crust soggy and the filling unevenly heated.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for the Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture from making the pie soggy.

Is there a substitute for mayonnaise in the custard mixture?

You can try Greek yogurt or sour cream as alternatives, which also add creaminess, though they will slightly change the texture and flavor profile.

Can I make the pie gluten-free?

Yes, using a gluten-free pastry shell is a simple swap that works wonderfully without impacting the delicious taste of the Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie.

How spicy is the pie with the cayenne pepper?

The amount of cayenne pepper adds a gentle warmth without overwhelming heat—feel free to adjust according to your spice preference.

What is the best type of Cheddar to use?

A sharp or extra-sharp Cheddar cheese works best, providing pronounced flavor that complements the shrimp perfectly.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a dish like Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie that combines fresh seafood with the warmth of melted cheese and a buttery crust. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or simply treating yourself, this recipe offers a comforting yet elegant meal that’s wonderfully approachable. I can’t wait for you to try making Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie and to hear how much it becomes a treasured part of your cooking repertoire!

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