Florida Shrimp Pie

Florida Shrimp Pie isn’t just one of my favorite recipes—it’s a heartfelt connection to my roots. At Recipes Urban, we believe food is more than a meal—it’s a story. I’m Sofia, and my love for cooking began in my grandmother’s Florida kitchen. I remember the first time we made shrimp pie together—fresh Gulf shrimp, a buttery crust, and her secret blend of herbs. No fuss, just real food made with love.

After years of trying overcomplicated recipes that never tasted right, I realized what truly mattered: authenticity. That’s why I created Recipes Urban—to celebrate simple, soulful dishes like this one. This guide walks you through everything you need to make a rich, flaky, and flavor-packed Florida Shrimp Pie your family will remember.

Don’t miss our Vegan Greek Salad—a refreshing side to balance the richness of the pie.

Table Of Contents

Table of Contents

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The History and Origins of Florida Shrimp Pie

A Culinary Gem from the Sunshine State

Florida Shrimp Pie may not be the most well-known dish outside of the South, but for those lucky enough to taste it, it’s unforgettable. Rooted in the Gulf Coast’s rich seafood traditions, this savory pie blends simplicity with bold coastal flavors. It’s the kind of dish that’s been quietly passed from one generation to the next—served at Sunday dinners, family reunions, and beach gatherings.

The earliest versions of shrimp pie were often made using leftover seafood and pantry staples—milk, flour, butter, and vegetables—all encased in a homemade pie crust. With the abundance of fresh shrimp available year-round in Florida, it was only natural that locals would find a way to turn it into a hearty, comforting meal.

How Coastal Culture Influenced This Comfort Dish

Florida’s unique cultural mix plays a big role in shaping its food traditions. Influences from Southern comfort food, Cuban zest, Caribbean spices, and even French techniques have all left their mark on dishes like shrimp pie.

The beauty of Florida Shrimp Pie lies in its adaptability. Whether it’s baked in a deep-dish casserole or nestled into a classic double-crust, the combination of tender shrimp, creamy sauce, and flaky pastry speaks to everything we love about Southern seafood cooking.

Looking for more Southern-style comfort? Check out our Vegan Falafel Recipe for a plant-based twist on a comforting classic.

Ingredients That Define an Authentic Florida Shrimp Pie

Must-Have Ingredients for Florida Shrimp Pie

The soul of a great Florida Shrimp Pie lies in fresh, flavorful ingredients. This Southern seafood classic doesn’t need fancy upgrades—just quality staples done right.

• Fresh Florida Shrimp: Sweet, briny, and firm. For the most authentic taste, always use wild-caught Gulf shrimp.
• Buttery Pie Crust: A flaky shell is essential. Homemade or store-bought, just make sure it’s golden and crisp.
• Milk or Cream: The creamy base of every Florida Shrimp Pie filling. Half-and-half adds richness without being too heavy.
• Onions, Garlic & Celery: Aromatics that build depth and Southern character.
• Flour & Butter: Used to create a smooth roux that thickens the shrimp filling.
• Paprika, Black Pepper & Thyme: Simple spices that bring out the natural flavors of the shrimp.

This combination of ingredients gives Florida Shrimp Pie its signature creamy, savory bite with a coastal twist.

Should You Use Fresh or Frozen Shrimp?

Fresh is best. For a truly flavorful Florida Shrimp Pie, fresh Gulf shrimp offer unbeatable taste and texture. But if you use frozen, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.

Looking for inspiration? Try our Vegan Chocolate Mousse for a light dessert after this hearty dish

How to Make Florida Shrimp Pie at Home

Simple Steps to the Perfect Florida Shrimp Pie

Creating a homemade Florida Shrimp Pie is easy with the right ingredients and a few simple steps:

1. Prep the Crust
Use a deep-dish pie plate. Fit the bottom crust and chill it while you prepare the filling.

2. Cook the Shrimp
Sauté fresh shrimp in butter for 2–3 minutes, just until pink. Chop into bite-sized pieces.

3. Make the Filling
In the same skillet, cook chopped onion, celery, and garlic in butter. Stir in flour to make a roux, then add milk or cream. Season with paprika, black pepper, and thyme. Stir in the shrimp (and cheese, if using).

4. Assemble the Pie
Pour the creamy shrimp mixture into the crust. Cover with the top crust, seal the edges, and cut slits for steam. Brush with egg wash.

5. Bake
Bake your Florida Shrimp Pie at 375°F for 30–35 minutes until golden and bubbling. Let it cool 10 minutes before serving.

Tips for Great Texture

• Use cold dough for flakiness.
• Bake on the lower oven rack.
• Brush the top with egg wash for shine and color.

Check out our Vegan Cheesecake Recipe for a creamy dessert pairing.

What Sets Florida Shrimp Pie Apart

A Symphony of Coastal Flavors

Florida Shrimp Pie distinguishes itself by marrying a velvety sauce with the bright, briny sweetness of Gulf shrimp. Instead of a heavy, overly rich filling, this pie strikes a perfect chord: plump shrimp meld seamlessly with garlic, fresh herbs (think thyme and parsley), and a whisper of paprika. The result is a luscious, yet light, cream sauce that complements rather than smothers the seafood, so each forkful sings of the ocean’s freshness.

This pie remains satisfyingly substantial without ever feeling cloying. The shrimp’s natural sweetness shines through a gentle seasoning—never buried in butter or cream—making it an all-season favorite that’s just as home on a holiday buffet as it is at a backyard picnic.

A Delight in Every Bite

What truly makes Florida Shrimp Pie unforgettable is its interplay of textures:

• Golden, flaky pastry: A sturdy shell that shatters at the fork’s edge, giving way to…
• Silky, shrimp-studded filling: Tender Gulf shrimp nestled in a creamy base with finely diced onions and celery for a hint of vegetal crunch.
• Subtle aromatics: Just enough sautéed shallot and pepper to build depth without distracting from the star ingredient.
• Harmonious seasoning: Salt, pepper, and a touch of dried herbs that elevate rather than overwhelm.

This is more than a meal—it’s a comforting taste of Florida’s coast, one that brings everyone back to the table for seconds (and thirds). Whether it’s the centerpiece of a festive feast or a casual weekend supper, Florida Shrimp Pie leaves an impression that lingers long after the last slice is gone.

Florida Shrimp Pie Variations to Try

Low-Carb and Gluten-Free Options

If you love the rich flavor of Florida Shrimp Pie but need to adjust for dietary needs, don’t worry—this dish is surprisingly flexible. With a few simple swaps, you can still enjoy all the comfort without the extra carbs or gluten.

• Low-Carb Version: Replace the pie crust with a cauliflower crust or make it crustless and bake the filling in a greased casserole dish.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free pie crust (store-bought or homemade with almond or rice flour). Also, replace regular flour in the filling with cornstarch or a gluten-free thickener.

You’ll still get the creamy, savory flavor that makes Florida Shrimp Pie a classic—just a bit lighter and easier on digestion.

Spicy and Cheesy Twists

Want to add a little boldness to your Florida Shrimp Pie? Try these fun flavor upgrades:

• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper to the filling. You can also sprinkle Cajun seasoning or hot sauce for a smoky heat.
• Cheesy Upgrade: Mix in Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese for a creamy, melty texture with a touch of spice.
• Cuban-Inspired: Add chopped plantains and cumin to the base for a twist inspired by South Florida’s Latin flavors.
• Southern Style: Toss in sautéed bell peppers or okra for an extra vegetable boost and regional flavor.

These variations let you tailor your Florida Shrimp Pie to your mood—or what’s in your pantry—without losing the dish’s heart.

What to Serve with Florida Shrimp Pie

Best Side Dishes

Florida Shrimp Pie is hearty and rich, so lighter, fresh sides make perfect companions:

• Mixed Greens Salad – A citrus vinaigrette adds balance.
• Coleslaw – Crunchy and tangy to cut the creaminess.
• Roasted Veggies – Asparagus or carrots add texture.
• Cornbread or Corn on the Cob – Classic Southern touches.

Perfect Pairings

• Drink: Sweet tea, sparkling water, or a light white wine like Pinot Grigio.
• Sauce: Lemon aioli or remoulade to boost flavor.
• Side Salad: Try our Vegan Greek Salad for a cool, crisp contrast.

These simple pairings help highlight the rich flavor of your Florida Shrimp Pie without overpowering it.

Nutritional Information and Health Tips

Florida Shrimp Pie Calories and Macros

Florida Shrimp Pie is comfort food at its finest, and while it’s not ultra-light, it can still fit into a balanced diet. Here’s a general estimate per serving (1/6 of a 9-inch pie):

Nutrient	Amount (Approx.)
Calories	420–480 kcal
Protein	22–25g
Carbohydrates	28–32g
Fat	25–30g
Fiber	2g

Figures fluctuate based on the selected crust, cream style, and type of cheese employed. Using low-fat milk or a crustless variation can reduce calories significantly.

How to Make It Healthier

If you want to lighten your Florida Shrimp Pie without losing its comforting flavor, here are a few tips:

• Use Half-and-Half or Low-Fat Milk: You’ll still get the creamy texture with less fat.
• Skip the Top Crust: A single-crust pie saves calories and still holds the filling.
• Add More Veggies: Bulk up the filling with spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added fiber and nutrients.
• Try Whole Wheat or Almond Flour Crusts: These offer more nutrition and a slightly nutty flavor.

For a satisfying dessert under 200 calories, check out our Vegan Chocolate Mousse.

Storing and Reheating Your Florida Shrimp Pie

Keeping It Fresh

• In the refrigerator: Once the pie has cooled completely, seal it securely—either by wrapping tightly in plastic wrap or by placing it under a snug-fitting lid.
• Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the pie in plastic wrap followed by foil (or use a freezer-safe container). It will keep beautifully for up to two months. For best results, freeze before baking.

Reheating Tips

• In the Oven: Heat your oven to 350 °F and bake the pie for 15–20 minutes. This method restores a golden, flaky crust and warms the filling evenly.
• In the Microwave: If you’re pressed for time, pop individual slices into the microwave for a brief burst on high. Bear in mind the crust will be softer using this technique.

With these methods, you can enjoy your Florida Shrimp Pie just as much days—or even weeks—after you first make it!

For more easy plant-based recipes and everyday kitchen inspiration, follow us on Facebook, explore our visual guides on Pinterest, and join the conversation with fellow food lovers on Reddit we share everything we love about simple, delicious, vegan cooking.

Conclusion

Florida Shrimp Pie isn’t just another seafood recipe—it’s a flavorful celebration of Southern heritage, coastal ingredients, and family tradition. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or serving it at a holiday table, this dish delivers warmth, comfort, and a taste of Florida in every bite.

From its simple ingredient list to its bold, satisfying flavor, it’s a recipe you’ll want to pass down—just like my grandmother did. If you’re ready to bring this delicious piece of Florida to your table, start with fresh shrimp, a flaky crust, and a little love in every layer.

FAQs About Florida Shrimp Pie