Florida Shrimp Pie: 7 Easy Steps for the Perfect Pie

A Florida Shrimp Pie is a quintessential taste of coastal living, combining sweet, tender shrimp with a creamy, savory filling all encased in a flaky, buttery pie crust. This beloved dish is a staple in seaside communities across the Sunshine State, celebrated for its comforting richness and straightforward preparation. It’s the kind of meal that feels special enough for company but is easy enough for a weeknight dinner.

The magic lies in the balance of simple ingredients: the classic ‘holy trinity’ of onion, celery, and bell pepper provides an aromatic base, while mayonnaise and a touch of lemon juice create a luscious binder that complements the shrimp perfectly. Whether you’re a seasoned Floridian or just dreaming of a beachside getaway, this recipe brings the warm, inviting flavors of classic Southern seafood right to your kitchen table.

There’s something uniquely comforting about a savory pie. This Florida Shrimp Pie, in particular, evokes images of breezy afternoons by the water, where the day’s fresh catch is transformed into a simple yet elegant meal. It’s not a fancy dish with complicated techniques; rather, its charm comes from its rustic simplicity and reliance on quality ingredients. The creamy filling is rich without being heavy, and each bite delivers the delightful texture of chopped shrimp mingled with soft-cooked vegetables.

It’s a celebration of regional cuisine, a dish passed down through generations of Florida families who knew how to make the most of the ocean’s bounty. Making this pie feels like tapping into a long tradition of coastal cooking, where the goal is always to create something delicious, satisfying, and perfect for sharing with loved ones.

What Makes Florida Shrimp Pie Special?

So, what makes a Florida Shrimp Pie ‘authentic’? It’s the harmonious blend of specific flavors and textures. Unlike some seafood casseroles that can be overly dense, an authentic shrimp pie is characterized by its creamy, almost custardy filling that holds together perfectly when sliced.

The key is the mayonnaise-based binder, which provides richness and a subtle tang. Classic Southern seasonings, particularly Old Bay, are non-negotiable for that signature coastal flavor. This isn’t just a hot shrimp dip baked in a crust; a true pie has a firmer structure and is intended to be served in wedges as a substantial part of a meal. The combination of the crisp, flaky crust with the warm, savory filling is what elevates this dish from a simple seafood bake to a true culinary staple of the region.

Key Ingredients for Florida Shrimp Pie

• Shrimp: The star of the show! The best kind of shrimp for Florida Shrimp Pie is traditionally Key West Pink shrimp, known for their sweet flavor. However, any small to medium-sized shrimp will work beautifully. And can you use frozen shrimp? Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them very dry with paper towels before chopping to avoid adding excess water to the filling.
• Pie Crust: A standard 9-inch pie crust provides the buttery, flaky vessel for the filling. A store-bought crust works perfectly for convenience, but a homemade one is always a treat.
• The Holy Trinity: Onion, celery, and green bell pepper are the aromatic foundation of many Southern dishes, and they provide a classic savory base here.
• Mayonnaise: This is the secret to the creamy, rich filling. Use a good quality, full-fat mayonnaise for the best results.
• Seasonings: Old Bay seasoning is essential for that classic seafood flavor. Worcestershire sauce adds depth, and fresh lemon juice brightens everything up.

How to Make Florida Shrimp Pie: Step-by-Step

1. Prepare the Crust:

A common question is how to prevent a soggy crust. The secret is par-baking (or blind-baking). Press your crust into the pie dish, line it with parchment paper, fill with pie weights, and bake for about 15 minutes. This creates a barrier that keeps the crust crisp against the creamy filling.

2. Cook Aromatics & Shrimp:

Sauté the onion, celery, and bell pepper until soft. This step is crucial for developing flavor. The shrimp only needs a very quick cook time—just until pink—as it will finish cooking in the oven.

3. Mix the Filling:

In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, egg, and seasonings to create a smooth, creamy base. Then, gently fold in the cooked vegetables, chopped shrimp, breadcrumbs, and parsley.

4. Assemble and Bake:

Pour the finished filling into your par-baked crust and spread it evenly. Bake until the top is beautifully golden brown and the filling is hot and bubbly all the way through.

Storing Your Florida Shrimp Pie

Proper storage is key to enjoying your Florida Shrimp Pie for days to come. Once the pie has cooled completely to room temperature, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or transfer slices to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze the pie. Wrap the entire pie or individual slices securely in both plastic wrap and a layer of foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to two months. To serve from frozen, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. This ensures the filling heats evenly without overcooking the shrimp or making the crust soggy.

Florida Shrimp Pie Variations & Substitutions

While the classic Florida Shrimp Pie is perfect as is, it’s also a fantastic base for creativity. For a cheesy version, fold in a half-cup of shredded sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Gruyère cheese into the filling before baking. To add a little heat, a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper will do the trick. If you’re a fan of surf and turf, a few slices of crumbled, crispy bacon can be mixed in for a smoky, savory addition.

For the binder, crushed Ritz crackers can be used in place of breadcrumbs for a richer, more buttery flavor. You can also swap the green bell pepper for a red one for a slightly sweeter taste and a pop of color.

Serving Suggestions for Florida Shrimp Pie

Florida Shrimp Pie is a rich and satisfying dish, so it pairs best with fresh, simple sides that provide a bit of contrast. A crisp green salad with a light lemon vinaigrette is a perfect companion, cutting through the creaminess of the pie. Steamed or roasted vegetables like asparagus, green beans, or broccoli also work wonderfully. For a classic Southern meal, serve it alongside a scoop of creamy grits or a side of tangy coleslaw. The pie can be served warm or at room temperature, making it a flexible option for gatherings and potlucks.

For more quick recipes, check out our fast meals page

The History of Florida Shrimp Pie

The history of Florida Shrimp Pie is deeply rooted in the coastal culinary traditions of the American South. Born out of necessity and ingenuity, this dish was a way for fishing communities to create hearty, flavorful meals from the abundant local shrimp supply. It evolved from simpler seafood casseroles and bakes, gradually becoming the refined yet rustic pie we know today.

Unlike a hot shrimp dip, which is meant for scooping, the shrimp pie was designed as a complete meal component, sturdy enough to be sliced and served on a plate. It represents a style of cooking that is both resourceful and celebratory, turning everyday ingredients into a dish worthy of a special occasion. It remains a beloved comfort food, embodying the relaxed, sun-soaked spirit of Florida’s coastline.

In conclusion, this Florida Shrimp Pie recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a slice of coastal heritage. It’s a testament to simple, high-quality ingredients coming together to create something truly special. I hope you enjoy making—and eating—this delicious pie as much as I do. It’s a perfect way to bring a little bit of sunshine and sea breeze to your dining table, no matter where you are.

Florida Shrimp Pie

A taste of the sunshine state! This creamy, savory Florida Shrimp Pie is easy to make and perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 485 kcal

Ingredients

  

For the Filling

• 1 lb small to medium shrimp, peeled, deveined, and roughly chopped
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
• 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
• 1/2 green bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1 tbsp lemon juice, freshly squeezed
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

For the Crust

• 1 unbaked pie crust, store-bought or homemade 9-inch

Instructions

 

• Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Press the pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish. To prevent a soggy bottom, par-bake the crust by lining it with parchment paper, filling with pie weights or dried beans, and baking for 15 minutes. Remove the weights and paper and bake for another 5 minutes until lightly golden. Set aside.
• Cook the Shrimp: If using raw shrimp, you can quickly sauté them in a pan for 1-2 minutes until just pink. Do not overcook. Roughly chop the cooked shrimp and set aside. If using pre-cooked shrimp, simply chop them.
• Sauté the Vegetables: In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, celery, and bell pepper. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, until softened and fragrant. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
• Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, beaten egg, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth. Stir in the sautéed vegetables, chopped shrimp, breadcrumbs, and fresh parsley. Mix until everything is well combined.
• Assemble the Pie: Pour the shrimp mixture evenly into the par-baked pie crust. Spread it out with a spatula to create a smooth, level surface.
• Bake the Pie: Bake in the preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown and bubbly. If the top begins to brown too quickly, you can tent it loosely with aluminum foil.
• Rest and Serve: Remove the pie from the oven and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the filling to set properly. Garnish with additional fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: When pre-cooking the shrimp, sauté them only until they just turn pink. They will continue to cook in the oven, and this prevents them from becoming tough.
• Chop Ingredients Finely: For the best texture, make sure to finely chop your onion, celery, and bell pepper so they meld seamlessly into the creamy filling.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the pie to rest for at least 10 minutes after baking is crucial. This helps the filling set, ensuring clean, beautiful slices.