Introduction to Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie
As a busy mom and passionate cook, I’m always on the lookout for delicious recipes that bring the family together. That’s why I can’t wait to share my Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie! It’s a delightful dish that beautifully marries succulent shrimp with creamy cheddar, all nestled in a flaky pastry crust. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive gathering with friends, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your table. So, grab your apron and let’s dive into a culinary adventure that’s both easy and oh-so-satisfying!
Why You’ll Love This Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie
This Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie is everything you want in a meal – easy to prepare and bursting with flavor! It takes just under an hour to whip up, making it perfect for those hectic days when time is scarce. The rich, creamy filling paired with fresh shrimp is a comforting hug on a plate. Plus, it’s versatile enough to impress at gatherings without stressing you out in the kitchen!
Ingredients for Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie
Gathering the ingredients for Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie is as fun as cooking it! Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful dish:
- Unbaked pastry shell: A trusty base that cradles all the delicious filling.
- Fresh shrimp: The star of the show! Choose shrimp that’s sweet and firm for the best flavor.
- Butter: Adds richness and helps sauté the veggies to perfection.
- Onion: The aromatic foundation that gives depth to the filling.
- Green bell pepper: Provides a pop of color and a crispy texture.
- Celery: For that delightful crunch and freshness.
- Garlic: An essential ingredient that brings a burst of flavor to the dish.
- Mayonnaise: To create a creamy, smooth custard that holds everything together.
- Milk: Helps to lighten the filling while adding creaminess.
- Eggs: Essential for binding and giving the pie its structure.
- Lemon juice: A splash of acidity that brightens the flavors.
- Worcestershire sauce: Adds a hint of umami and enhances overall flavor.
- Salt and black pepper: Basic seasonings to elevate the taste.
- Cayenne pepper: A pinch gives it a lively kick; adjust to your taste.
- Shredded Cheddar cheese: The creamy hero that pulls everything together with its melt-in-your-mouth goodness.
All ingredients with exact quantities are detailed at the end of the article for easy reference or printing. Feel free to mix and match some of these ingredients to suit your taste! Enjoy experimenting with flavors and textures!
How to Make Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie
Now that we have all our ingredients prepped, it’s time to bring this Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie to life! Follow these simple, yet scrumptious steps, and you’ll have a stunning dish that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat.
Step 1: Prepare the Pastry Shell
First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). While that’s heating up, place the unbaked pastry shell on a baking sheet. This step makes it easier to move the pie once it’s filled. Plus, who wants to juggle a heavy pie shell?
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt a tablespoon of butter. Add the finely chopped onion, green bell pepper, and celery. Sauté until the veggies are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Your kitchen will smell amazing at this point! Just wait until you add the garlic next.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Now, it’s time to add the fresh shrimp to the skillet. Cook them until they turn pink and opaque, about 3 to 4 minutes. Make sure to remove them from heat when done and drain any excess liquid. Nobody wants a soggy pie!
Step 4: Whisk the Custard Mixture
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and milk until smooth. Now, add the eggs, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Blend everything until well combined. This creamy custard will be the magic that holds your pie together!
Step 5: Assemble the Pie
Here comes the fun part! Distribute the shrimp and sautéed vegetables evenly over your pastry shell. Pour the custard mixture gently over the filling. Lastly, don’t forget to sprinkle the shredded Cheddar cheese generously over the top. I mean, can you ever have too much cheese?
Step 6: Bake the Pie
Place your filled pie in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. It’s ready when the filling is set and the top is golden brown. Once it’s out of the oven, let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This is key for letting the flavors meld together beautifully. Trust me, the wait is worth every second!
Tips for Success
- Always use fresh shrimp for optimal flavor; frozen shrimp can work but may alter the texture.
- Let the pie cool before slicing; this helps set the filling for cleaner slices.
- Experiment with different cheeses for a unique twist; mozzarella or Gruyere can be delightful!
- Serve with a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick!
- Pair with a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.
Equipment Needed
- 9-inch pie dish: A standard option, but a tart pan can also work.
- Large skillet: Use a non-stick pan for easy cooking and cleanup.
- Mixing bowl: Any size will do, but a medium bowl is ideal.
- Whisk: A fork can substitute in a pinch.
- Baking sheet: Essential for transporting your filled pie to the oven.
Variations for Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie
- Spicy Cajun Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning to the filling for a zesty twist.
- Greens Galore: Stir in some fresh spinach or kale for added nutrition and color.
- Different Cheeses: Try using pepper jack for a spicy edge or feta for a tangy flavor.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute shrimp with mushrooms and artichokes for a delicious veggie pie.
- Herbal Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like dill or parsley into the custard mixture for brightness.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a light arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
- Serve alongside crusty bread or warm garlic knots to soak up every bit of the delicious filling.
- A chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water complements the flavors beautifully.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
FAQs about Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp and pat them dry before cooking. Fresh shrimp will give the best flavor, but frozen can still work in a pinch.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pie will keep well for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and assemble the pie a day in advance. Just cover it and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake!
What can I serve with Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie?
This pie pairs wonderfully with a crisp salad or fresh steamed vegetables. For a heartier meal, serve it with rice or garlic bread.
Is Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply use a gluten-free pastry shell. The rest of the ingredients should be naturally gluten-free!
Final Thoughts
Bringing the Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie to your table is truly a delightful experience! Each bite serves up comforting flavors that can take you away to coastal kitchens brimming with seafood delights. I love how this recipe balances ease and elegance, making it ideal for both cozy family dinners and festive gatherings. Plus, the memories you’ll create while cooking—sharing stories and laughter—become just as important as the dish itself. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the culinary adventure, and create moments that will fill both your stomach and your heart with joy!
Print
Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie is a delicious seafood dish featuring a flaky pastry crust filled with succulent shrimp and a creamy cheddar cheese custard.
Ingredients
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pastry shell
- 1 pound fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place unbaked pastry shell onto a baking sheet.
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion, green bell pepper, celery, and garlic. Sauté until vegetables are soft and translucent.
- Add shrimp and cook until pink and opaque. Remove from heat and drain excess liquid.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and milk until smooth. Incorporate eggs, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Blend until well combined.
- Distribute shrimp and cooked vegetables evenly over the pastry shell. Pour custard mixture over the filling. Sprinkle shredded Cheddar cheese across the top.
- Bake in preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until filling is set and top is golden brown.
- Remove pie from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Ensure shrimp is fresh for the best flavor.
- You can substitute the Cheddar cheese with your favorite cheese if desired.
- Letting the pie rest before slicing helps to set the filling.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
