As I watched the rain dance against my window, I knew it was the perfect moment for a warm, heartfelt meal. That’s when I decided to highlight my beloved Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie, where creamy, rich goodness meets the unmistakable charm of flaky, cheesy biscuits. This dish isn’t just comfort food; it’s a showstopper for any occasion, packed with succulent shrimp, crab, and a symphony of vegetables. It’s so customizable—you can effortlessly swap in your favorite seafood or even create a vegetarian version that’s equally delightful! With minimal prep time, you can transform a chilly day into a cozy culinary adventure in no time. Ready to dive into this delectable pot pie and make it your own? Let’s get started!
Why is this pot pie a must-try?
Comfort, wrapped in flaky goodness, this Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie is the ultimate cozy dish. Customizable, you can easily mix and match seafood or go vegetarian, catering to everyone at your table. Minimal effort means you’ll have this masterpiece ready in no time, while rich flavors from the creamy filling and cheesy biscuits ensure smiles all around. Pair it with a fresh salad for an unforgettable meal! For a twist, try adding some delicious Air Fryer Biscuits on the side or incorporate a touch of Seafood Boil Sauce for extra flair.
Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie Ingredients
• Dive into this comforting dish with these essential ingredients!
For the Filling
- Butter – Provides richness in both the filling and the biscuit crust; always use cold butter for flakiness in biscuits.
- Olive Oil – Adds flavor and helps to sauté vegetables to perfection.
- Onion & Garlic – Infuse the filling with aromatic flavors that elevate the dish.
- Carrots, Celery, Mushrooms – These vegetables add texture and natural sweetness to the creamy filling.
- Flour – Thickens the filling for a luscious cream sauce that brings everything together.
- Broth (Chicken or Seafood) – This liquid base enhances the overall flavor in your sauce.
- Heavy Cream – Delivers the rich, creamy consistency that makes this pot pie so indulgent.
- Shrimp & Crab – The stars of this dish; feel free to substitute with lobster, scallops, or a firm white fish for a delightful twist.
- Frozen Peas – Adds a pop of color and sweetness to the mix.
- Parsley – Brightens up the dish as a fresh garnish.
For the Biscuit Topping
- Cheddar Cheese – Gives the biscuit topping that beloved cheesy flavor; sharp cheddar is highly recommended.
- Buttermilk – Ensures the biscuit dough remains tender and full of flavor.
- Baking Powder, Garlic Powder, Salt – Essential ingredients that build the structure and depth of flavor in your biscuits.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves, sautéing until they become fragrant and translucent, about 2 minutes. Stir in 1 cup of diced carrots, 1 cup of diced celery, and 1 cup of sliced mushrooms, cooking together for 5-6 minutes until the veggies are tender and slightly caramelized.
Step 2: Thicken the Filling
Sprinkle ¼ cup of flour over the sautéed vegetables, stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of either chicken or seafood broth along with 1 cup of heavy cream, ensuring a smooth mixture. Continue to cook and gently stir until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes, ultimately creating a luscious cream base for your Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie.
Step 3: Add Seafood and Season
Once thickened, season the filling with 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1 tablespoon of Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Gently fold in 1 cup of cooked, chopped shrimp, 1 cup of lump crab meat, 1 cup of frozen peas, and ¼ cup of chopped fresh parsley. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly while you prepare the biscuit topping.
Step 4: Prepare the Biscuit Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Stir in 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, mixing well. Next, pour in ½ cup of melted cold butter and ¾ cup of buttermilk, stirring until the dough is just combined. Be careful not to overwork the dough to ensure your biscuits stay light and fluffy.
Step 5: Assemble the Pot Pie
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pour the creamy seafood filling into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. With a spoon or ice cream scoop, drop mounds of the biscuit dough over the filling, leaving some space between each mound. Brush the tops with melted butter and sprinkle with additional parsley for a fresh touch.
Step 6: Bake and Serve
Place the assembled Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the biscuit tops are golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Keep an eye on the baking progress; the perfect visual cue is golden tops that contrast with the creamy filling beneath. Allow the pot pie to cool for about 5 minutes before diving in to enjoy this comforting delight!
Expert Tips for Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie
- Cold Butter: Always use cold butter in the biscuit dough to achieve the flakiest texture possible.
- Don’t Overmix: Avoid overworking the biscuit dough to keep your biscuits light and airy—mix until just combined.
- Seasoning Matters: Make sure to taste as you go; the right balance of Old Bay, garlic, and paprika is crucial for your filling’s flavor.
- Layer Wisely: Never pour hot seafood filling directly over the biscuits; it can make them soggy. Let it cool slightly first.
- Check Doneness: Keep an eye on the baking time; golden brown tops signify that your Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie is ready to be enjoyed!
Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie—when you personalize it, you’ll spark new flavors!
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Seafood Swap: Substitute shrimp and crab with lobster, scallops, or your favorite firm white fish for a gourmet twist. The richness of lobster enhances the dish beautifully!
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Vegetarian Delight: Transform it into a vegetarian version by using mushrooms, artichokes, and spinach instead of seafood. This option is equally flavorful and comforting.
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Classic Pastry Crust: Replace the biscuit topping with a traditional pastry crust for a different texture. The buttery crust pairs excellently with the creamy filling.
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Extra Cheesy: Boost the cheese factor by adding Parmesan or Gruyère into the biscuit dough, elevating the flavor and richness. Layering flavors takes this pot pie to the next level!
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Spice it Up: Add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the filling for a fiery kick. A little heat can create a wonderful contrast against the creams!
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Make it Light: Swap heavy cream with coconut milk for a lighter, dairy-free version without sacrificing on creaminess. It adds an interesting tropical note!
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Vegetable Medley: Toss in your favorite seasonal veggies, such as zucchini or bell peppers, to increase nutrition and add vibrant colors. It turns the dish into a veggie-packed feast.
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Flavor Infusion: For an extra layer of flavor, drizzle in some lemon juice or add a splash of white wine to the filling. This brightens the dish and complements the seafood beautifully.
Now that you have these inspiring variations, the possibilities are endless! Feel free to explore your culinary creativity. Pair it with a fresh salad, and you’ll be ready to enjoy a comforting feast that feels just like home.
Make Ahead Options
These Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the creamy filling and refrigerate it up to 3 days in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. To maintain quality, let the filling cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. You can also prepare the biscuit dough up to 24 hours ahead; just keep it covered in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, simply pour the chilled filling into your baking dish, drop the biscuit mounds over it, and bake as directed. This way, you’ll have a comforting, homemade meal with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
How to Store and Freeze Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days to keep the flavors fresh and prevent spoilage.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the unbaked pot pie for up to 2 months. Wrap it well to prevent freezer burn and loss of flavor.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for approximately 45-55 minutes or until heated through. If thawed, reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.
Biscuit Tips: If baking later, consider baking the biscuits separately to maintain their flakiness and texture upon reheating.
What to Serve with Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie
Delight in a culinary journey by pairing this comforting pot pie with dishes that enhance its rich flavors and textures.
- Arugula Salad: A fresh arugula salad adds a peppery crunch, balancing the creamy seafood filling with its bright flavors. Tossed with a light vinaigrette, it’s a refreshing contrast.
- Garlic Bread: Warm, toasted garlic bread gives you an extra layer of deliciousness to scoop up that creamy filling, making it the perfect side for those wanting extra comfort.
- Vegetable Medley: A simply sautéed medley of seasonal vegetables, like green beans and carrots, brings vibrant colors and nutrients, providing a lighter touch alongside the hearty pot pie.
- Classic Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and zesty dressing of a Caesar salad play beautifully with the richness of the pot pie while offering a satisfying crunch and tangy flavor.
- Crispy Potato Wedges: A side of golden, crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs creates a fun finger food element that pairs well with every bite of the savory pot pie.
- Sparkling Lemonade: A glass of bubbly lemonade adds a refreshing, citrus note, cutting through the richness of the pot pie and enhancing the seafood flavors beautifully.
- Apple Crisp: For those who crave dessert, an apple crisp offers a warm, sweet ending with its spiced flavors and comforting crumb topping, rounding off the meal perfectly.
- Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay effortlessly complements the seafood’s richness while enhancing your dining experience with its buttery notes—ideal for a special occasion.
Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best seafood for my Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie?
Absolutely! Look for fresh, bright shrimp and lump crab meat, as these indicate quality and freshness. If you’re using frozen, ensure they’re properly thawed and drained before mixing them into your filling. For fantastic flavor, consider swapping in lobster or scallops, and always try to buy from a trusted seafood market.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Very! To keep your Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie fresh, refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Ensure it’s completely cooled before sealing to avoid condensation.
Can I freeze the pot pie? How do I do that?
Absolutely! For freezing, I recommend preparing the pot pie without baking it. Once assembled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to minimize freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, just remove the wrapping and pop it in the oven straight from the freezer, cooking at 375°F (190°C) for about 45-55 minutes until hot and bubbly.
What should I do if my biscuit topping is soggy?
Very! Often, a soggy biscuit topping can result from pouring hot filling directly onto the biscuits. To prevent this, allow your seafood filling to cool slightly before adding the biscuit topping. If you find your biscuits are still soggy after baking, you can try gently lifting them up and placing them back in the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes, which can help them crisp up a bit more.
Is this recipe suitable for people with seafood allergies?
Definitely! If you’re cooking for someone with seafood allergies, you can easily create a delightful vegetarian version by substituting the seafood with ingredients like artichokes, spinach, or additional mushrooms. Just keep in mind to check that your broth is free from seafood as well.
How long does it take to reheat my frozen pot pie?
Certainly! If you have a frozen Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie, bake it from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for approximately 45-55 minutes. If thawed in the fridge, it will take just 15-20 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to warm through. Always check that the center is heated completely before serving!
Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Sauté the vegetables: Melt butter and olive oil in a skillet, add onion and garlic, and sauté until fragrant. Add carrots, celery, and mushrooms; cook until tender.
- Thicken the filling: Sprinkle flour over sautéed vegetables, stir, then whisk in broth and heavy cream until thickened.
- Add seafood and season: Mix in paprika, Old Bay, shrimp, crab, peas, and parsley; remove from heat.
- Prepare biscuit dough: Mix flour, baking powder, garlic powder, and salt. Stir in cheese, melted butter, and buttermilk until combined.
- Assemble the pot pie: Pour filling into a baking dish, drop spoonfuls of biscuit dough on top, brush with butter, and sprinkle with parsley.
- Bake and serve: Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and filling is bubbling. Cool for 5 minutes before serving.
