Bring the sunshine of the coast right to your table with this vibrant Florida Shrimp Pie. Imagine a flaky, golden crust filled with succulent local shrimp, sweet bell peppers, and just the right amount of creaminess—all kissed with fresh herbs and a tangy twist. Whether you’re a lifelong Floridian or just a fan of big, bold flavors, this dish is guaranteed to turn your meal into a celebration. It’s comforting, colorful, and full of stories to share.

Florida Shrimp Pie Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Florida Shrimp Pie is how these straightforward, thoughtfully-chosen ingredients come together for layers of flavor. Each component brings something special—whether that’s a burst of color, a creamy finish, or a bit of zest—to make every bite memorable.

Fresh Florida shrimp: The star ingredient! Use peeled and deveined medium shrimp for maximum sweetness and tenderness in the pie.
Pie crust: Store-bought or homemade, a buttery, flaky shell anchors the filling and soaks up all those delicious juices.
Red bell pepper: Adds a sweet crunch and joyful color that pops against the creamy filling.
Yellow onion: Provides a subtle savory backbone that lets the other flavors shine.
Garlic: Just a clove or two brings an aromatic lift you don’t want to miss.
Cream cheese: Blends into a silky base that holds the shrimp together and gives the pie its irresistible texture.
Eggs: Help set the filling for that perfect sliceable consistency.
Lemon zest: Brightens everything with zip and keeps the dish from feeling too heavy.
Fresh parsley: A sprinkle in the filling and on top adds a burst of freshness.
Salt & pepper: Always taste and season as you go for a perfectly balanced bite.
Old Bay seasoning: Classic in seafood dishes, just a little brings out the best in the shrimp.
Olive oil or butter: For sautéing your veggies and shrimp to build that savory base.

How to Make Florida Shrimp Pie

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by dicing your red bell pepper and onion, mincing the garlic, zesting the lemon, and chopping the parsley. Peel and devein your shrimp if necessary, and pat them dry with a paper towel. Lay out your pie crust in the pie pan, crimping the edges for a pretty finish.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies and Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat a splash of olive oil or a knob of butter over medium heat. Sauté your onion and bell pepper until softened, about 3-4 minutes, then add the garlic and cook just until fragrant. Toss in the shrimp, sprinkle with Old Bay, and cook only until the shrimp begin to turn pink; they’ll finish in the oven so don’t overcook them now.

Step 3: Make the Filling

Off the heat, add the cream cheese directly into the skillet while it’s still warm. Stir until it melts into the veggies and shrimp, forming a lusciously creamy base. Fold in the lemon zest, half the parsley, salt, and pepper to taste. Let the mixture cool slightly, then whisk your eggs in a separate bowl and gently combine everything together.

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

Pour your filling into the prepared crust, smoothing it out for even distribution. Sprinkle the rest of the parsley across the top for a pop of color. If you’re feeling fancy, a few extra shrimp arranged on top before baking look absolutely beautiful.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake your Florida Shrimp Pie at 375°F (190°C) for 30–35 minutes, or until the center is set and the crust is golden. Let it cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing—this helps everything firm up perfectly for those oh-so-satisfying pie wedges.

How to Serve Florida Shrimp Pie

Garnishes

A shower of chopped fresh parsley or cilantro instantly brightens each slice. I also love a light squeeze of fresh lemon over the top just before serving—the acid brings each bite to life. For true Florida flair, scatter a few thin slices of scallion or a dusting of smoked paprika for added color and aroma.

Side Dishes

A crisp green salad with citrus vinaigrette is the perfect companion, keeping things light and balancing the pie’s creamy, savory richness. Crusty bread for dipping or grilled seasonal vegetables round out a truly delightful coastal meal. For something heartier, herbed rice or roasted potatoes also make wonderful partners.

Creative Ways to Present

Try individual Florida Shrimp Pie tartlets for an adorable dinner party starter or a picnic staple. Mini pies are ideal for brunch or potlucks, and they travel like a dream. You can even serve slices chilled or at room temperature for a Florida-inspired twist on classic quiche. A lettuce cup with a wedge of shrimp pie nestled inside? Don’t knock it till you try it!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow any leftover Florida Shrimp Pie to cool to room temperature, then cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavor often deepens overnight, making for a delicious next-day lunch or snack.

Freezing

Florida Shrimp Pie freezes surprisingly well! Simply wrap individual slices (or the whole pie) first in plastic wrap and then in foil. Freeze for up to two months. To serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently to maintain the creamy texture.

Reheating

For best results, reheat slices in a preheated oven at 325°F (165°C) until warmed through—this preserves the flaky crust much better than microwaving. If you do use a microwave, cover the pie with a damp paper towel and heat in 30-second intervals so it doesn’t dry out.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh for Florida Shrimp Pie?

Absolutely! Just thaw the shrimp completely, pat them dry, and proceed as directed. Using quality frozen shrimp can be just as tasty, especially if you’re not near the coast.

What other vegetables can I add?

This recipe loves to adapt—try chopped spinach, corn, or even a handful of diced tomatoes for extra flair and flavor. Just be careful not to add too much liquid, as you want the filling to set nicely.

Does Florida Shrimp Pie work as a make-ahead dish?

Yes, it’s perfect for prepping ahead! Simply assemble the pie, cover, and chill in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Or bake it completely, cool, and reheat slices as needed—ideal for busy weeknights or entertaining.

What’s the best way to reheat without drying out the shrimp?

Gentle oven reheating is key. Cover your slice loosely with foil and bake at a low temperature until hot—this keeps the shrimp tender and the crust crisp.

Can I make Florida Shrimp Pie gluten-free?

Definitely! Just use your favorite gluten-free pie crust or make a crustless version by pouring the filling into a greased baking dish and baking until set. All the flavor, none of the gluten.

Final Thoughts

Florida Shrimp Pie isn’t just a recipe, it’s an invitation to gather, laugh, and savor every coastal bite. Whether you’re cooking for loved ones or treating yourself, this dish always brings big smiles and requests for seconds. Dive in and discover just how bright and delicious this Florida-inspired classic can be!

Florida Shrimp Pie Recipe