Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie

If you’re looking for a dish that combines comfort, flavor, and a touch of the sea, then this Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie is just for you! This savory pie is not only a delight for seafood lovers but also perfect for those busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. The creamy cheddar custard filling paired with fresh shrimp and vibrant vegetables creates a dish that will keep everyone coming back for more.

What makes this recipe even more special is its versatility. You can serve it as a main course or alongside a fresh salad, making it suitable for any occasion. Trust me, once you try this pie, it’ll become a staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This recipe is easy and quick, allowing you to whip up a delicious dinner in no time.
• Kid-Friendly: The cheesy filling and tender shrimp are sure to please even the pickiest eaters at your table.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare it ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready to serve, freeing up your schedule for other tasks.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of fresh shrimp with veggies and cheddar cheese creates an explosion of flavors in every bite.
• Impressive Presentation: Serve this pie straight from the oven, and watch your guests’ faces light up!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be delighted to see how simple and wholesome these ingredients are! Gather everything below, and you’re on your way to creating a fantastic Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie.

• 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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some ideas to mix things up:

• Swap the protein: If shrimp isn’t your thing or you want to try something different, consider using crab meat or even cooked chicken.
• Add greens: Toss in some fresh spinach or kale for an added nutrient boost. It pairs beautifully with the other flavors!
• Spice it up: If you love heat, feel free to add some diced jalapeños or sprinkle extra cayenne on top before baking.
• Cheese choices: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a unique twist on flavor.

How to Make Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and place the unbaked pastry shell onto a baking sheet. This step ensures that your crust gets nice and crispy while the filling bakes.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion, green bell pepper, celery, and garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are soft and translucent. Cooking them first enhances their flavors and brings out their natural sweetness!

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Add shrimp to the skillet and cook until they are pink and opaque. Remove from heat and drain any excess liquid. This step is crucial because it prevents your pie from becoming soggy.

Step 4: Prepare the Custard Mixture

In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and milk until smooth. Incorporate eggs, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce (for depth of flavor), salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Blend until well combined—this custard will hold everything together beautifully!

Step 5: Assemble

Distribute the cooked shrimp and sautéed vegetables evenly over the pastry shell. Pour the custard mixture over the top; it should fill in all the nooks and crannies nicely.

Step 6: Add Cheese

Sprinkle shredded Cheddar cheese across the top of your pie. This is where all that cheesy goodness comes into play—who doesn’t love melted cheese?

Step 7: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 30 to 35 minutes or until the filling is set and the top turns golden brown. Keep an eye on it so you don’t miss that gorgeous color!

Step 8: Rest & Serve

Once baked, remove your pie from the oven and let it rest for about ten minutes before slicing into it. This resting period helps everything settle down so each slice holds its shape beautifully.

Enjoy making this Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie! I’d love to hear how yours turns out!

Pro Tips for Making Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie

Making Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie is a delightful experience, and with a few pro tips, you can elevate your pie to the next level!

• Use fresh shrimp: Fresh shrimp not only tastes better but also has a firmer texture, enhancing the overall quality of your pie.
• Don’t skip the sautéing: Sautéing vegetables before adding them to the pie helps release their flavors and prevents them from becoming too watery during baking.
• Let it rest: Allowing the pie to rest after baking ensures that the filling sets properly, making it easier to slice and serve without falling apart.
• Experiment with cheese: While Cheddar is delicious, feel free to mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyère for a unique flavor twist.
• Add herbs for freshness: A sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, right before serving can brighten up the dish and add a pop of color.

How to Serve Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie

This pie is as visually appealing as it is tasty! Here are some ideas on how to present this scrumptious dish that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: A sprinkle of parsley or dill adds a splash of color and freshness, enhancing both presentation and flavor.
• Lemon wedges: Serving lemon wedges on the side allows guests to add a zesty touch that complements the shrimp beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a citrus vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pie.
• Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears drizzled with olive oil and lemon juice make for an elegant side that pairs well with seafood.
• Roasted Baby Potatoes: Crispy roasted baby potatoes seasoned with rosemary offer a hearty element alongside the creamy pie.
• Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob brings a sweet crunch that balances out the savory flavors of the shrimp cheddar pie.

Enjoy serving this delightful Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie at your next gathering—it’s sure to be a hit!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it in advance or store leftovers for later, making it a convenient option for busy days.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pie to cool completely before storing.
• Cover the pie securely with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, ensure the pie is completely cooled.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw the frozen pie in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• You can also microwave individual slices on medium power until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie.

Can I use frozen shrimp for Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

What can I substitute if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce for Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie?

If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce, you can substitute it with soy sauce or a mixture of soy sauce and a splash of vinegar for added tanginess.

Can I add more vegetables to my Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as spinach, tomatoes, or zucchini to enhance the flavor and nutrition of your pie.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie as delightful as I do! It’s a wonderful blend of flavors that captures the essence of coastal cooking. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying it as a special treat, it’s bound to impress. Enjoy making this recipe and share it with your loved ones—there’s nothing quite like homemade comfort food!

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