Name: Florida Shrimp Pie Delights
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 each 9-inch pie crust (store-bought or homemade); 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined, chopped; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 cup yellow onion, diced; 0.5 cup celery, diced; 0.5 cup red bell pepper, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning; 0.5 tsp smoked paprika; 0.75 tsp kosher salt (to taste); 0.5 tsp black pepper; 0.25 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat); 1 tsp lemon zest; 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 0.25 cup scallions, thinly sliced; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 0.5 cup mayonnaise; 2 each large eggs (room temperature); 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 0.75 cup Ritz cracker crumbs (for topping); 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (for topping); 1 tsp hot sauce (optional)

why make this recipe

Florida Shrimp Pie Delights are a delicious treat that combines fresh shrimp and creamy flavors in a buttery pie crust. This dish is perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or a special occasion. With its delightful mix of textures and tastes, it adds a little sunshine to any meal! Plus, it’s easy to make and sure to impress your friends and family.

how to make Florida Shrimp Pie Delights

Ingredients

1 each 9-inch pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined, chopped (fresh or thawed)
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1 tbsp olive oil
1 cup yellow onion, diced
0.5 cup celery, diced
0.5 cup red bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
0.5 tsp smoked paprika
0.75 tsp kosher salt (to taste)
0.5 tsp black pepper
0.25 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
1 tsp lemon zest
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
0.25 cup scallions, thinly sliced
4 oz cream cheese, softened
0.5 cup mayonnaise
2 each large eggs (room temperature)
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
0.75 cup Ritz cracker crumbs (for topping)
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (for topping)
1 tsp hot sauce (optional)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a skillet, heat the two tablespoons of butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, and red bell pepper. Cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic, Old Bay seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for another minute, then remove from heat.
In a mixing bowl, combine the shrimp, lemon zest, lemon juice, and scallions. Add the cooked vegetable mixture and mix well.
In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese and mayonnaise until smooth. Then, add the eggs and mix well. Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped parsley.
Pour the shrimp and vegetable mixture into the pie crust. Then, add the cream cheese mixture on top.
In a small bowl, mix the Ritz cracker crumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle this topping over the pie.
Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until golden brown and set.
Take the pie out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.

how to serve Florida Shrimp Pie Delights

Serve Florida Shrimp Pie Delights warm, garnished with some fresh parsley or a few slices of lemon. This dish pairs well with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also offer hot sauce on the side for those who like an extra kick.

how to store Florida Shrimp Pie Delights

To store leftovers, cover the cooled pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days. You can also freeze the pie before baking it. Just wrap it well and store it in the freezer for up to two months. Bake from frozen, adding extra time as needed.

tips to make Florida Shrimp Pie Delights

For extra flavor, you can use fresh herbs like dill or thyme in the filling.
Make sure your shrimp are fully cooked before adding them to the mixture.
If you prefer a spicier pie, increase the cayenne pepper or hot sauce.

variation

You can easily modify this recipe by using crab meat or even chicken instead of shrimp. Adding vegetables like spinach or kale can also enhance the flavor and nutrition of the dish.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp works great! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the pie and keep it in the fridge for up to a day before baking.

Is there a gluten-free option for the pie crust?

Yes, you can find gluten-free pie crusts at the store, or you can make your own using gluten-free flour.