The enchanting aroma of fresh baked biscuits wafts through my kitchen, transporting me to cozy gatherings with family and friends. This Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie is an irresistible dish that marries the richness of the sea with the delightful crunch of golden biscuits. After a long week of fast food and takeout, I craved something wholesome and comforting, and this recipe delivered beautifully.
Imagine succulent shrimp and tender crab nestled in a creamy, herb-infused sauce, bursting with vegetables that add both texture and flavor. When topped with fluffy, cheesy biscuits, each bite is a celebration of comfort food at its best—a dish that feels downright indulgent yet simple to prepare. Perfect for family dinners or impressing guests on special occasions, this Seafood Pot Pie is customizable, inviting you to swap in your favorite seafood or mix in fresh vegetables according to your tastes. Join me on this culinary journey, and let’s create a dish that warms both the heart and the stomach!
Why is Seafood Pot Pie so irresistible?
Comforting indulgence: The blend of creamy seafood and buttery Cheddar Bay biscuits creates a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Customizable goodness: Use your favorite seafood or seasonal veggies to make it uniquely yours.
Easy prep: With straightforward steps, even novice cooks can shine in the kitchen.
Crowd-pleaser: The inviting aroma and delicious flavor guarantee rave reviews from family and friends.
Versatile meals: This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, offering an impressive yet hassle-free option.
Every bite will have you craving more!
Seafood Pot Pie with Cheddar Bay Biscuit Ingredients
Get ready to create a comforting classic with this Seafood Pot Pie with Cheddar Bay Biscuit Topping!
For the Filling
- Butter – Provides richness and flavor in the filling.
Substitution: Use margarine for a non-dairy option. - Olive Oil – Enhances flavor and prevents butter from burning.
- Onion – Adds sweetness and aromatic depth.
- Garlic – Infuses the dish with a robust flavor profile.
- Carrots, Celery, Mushrooms – These vegetables add texture and nutritional value.
Substitution: Use any preferred vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. - Flour – Thickens the cream sauce for a luxurious texture.
- Broth – Provides the base for the creamy filling.
Note: Seafood or vegetable broth can be used for flavor. - Heavy Cream – Adds richness and creaminess to the filling.
- Paprika & Old Bay Seasoning – Enhances flavor with a hint of smokiness and seafood seasoning.
- Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning.
- Shrimp & Crab Meat – The star proteins of the dish, providing savory depth.
Substitution: Lobster, scallops, or firm white fish can replace crab. - Frozen Peas – For added color and sweetness.
- Fresh Parsley – Brightens the dish and adds a fresh herb flavor.
For the Cheddar Bay Biscuit Topping
- Flour – For preparing the biscuit dough.
- Baking Powder – Essential for biscuit rise.
- Garlic Powder – Adds an extra layer of flavor to the biscuits.
- Salt – For balanced seasoning.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Adds cheesiness to the biscuits.
Note: Use sharp cheddar for maximum flavor. - Buttermilk – Contributes to tender, flaky biscuits.
Substitution: Milk with a splash of vinegar can work in place of buttermilk. - Butter (melted) – Helps to create that perfect flaky texture in the biscuit topping.
How to Make Seafood Pot Pie with Cheddar Bay Biscuit Topping
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Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, melt butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, celery, and mushrooms. Sauté for 5-6 minutes until softened and fragrant.
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Prepare Sauce: Sprinkle flour over the sautéed vegetables and cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate any raw flour taste. Gradually add broth and heavy cream, whisking until smooth. Stir in paprika and Old Bay seasoning, then simmer for about 5 minutes until thickened.
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Add Seafood: Gently fold in shrimp, crab meat, frozen peas, and chopped parsley. Cook just until the shrimp turns pink, then remove from heat, allowing the mixture to cool slightly.
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Prepare Biscuit Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, garlic powder, and salt. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese. Then, add melted butter and buttermilk, mixing until just combined; overmixing can lead to tough biscuits.
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Assemble Dish: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Pour the seafood filling into a greased baking dish. Drop spoonfuls of biscuit dough over the filling, making sure to cover most of the surface. Brush the tops with melted butter for a golden finish.
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Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the biscuits are golden brown and the filling is bubbling. If the biscuits brown too quickly, cover them loosely with foil.
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Cool & Serve: Once baked, let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to settle. Garnish with extra parsley or cheese if desired for an added touch.
Optional: Drizzle with lemon juice before serving for a refreshing zing.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Seafood Pot Pie
Fridge: Store your Seafood Pot Pie in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will help retain the creamy filling and flaky biscuits for your next meal.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the unbaked pot pie for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes if baked, or 25-30 minutes if frozen until heated through and biscuits are golden. Add a splash of broth to keep it moist.
Make-Ahead: You can prepare the filling and biscuit dough ahead of time. Store each separately in the fridge for up to 2 days and assemble just before baking for a fresh Seafood Pot Pie experience!
Seafood Pot Pie Variations
Customize your Seafood Pot Pie with these delightful variations that inspire creativity and enhance flavors.
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Lobster Swap: Replace crab meat with fresh lobster for a luxurious twist that elevates the dish to special occasion status. Imagine indulging in tender lobster nestled within that creamy filling; it’s pure decadence!
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Vegetable Medley: For a vegetarian take, substitute seafood with a colorful array of mushrooms, artichokes, and spinach. This option not only adds vibrant hues but also creates a hearty, satisfying experience everyone can enjoy.
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Spicy Kick: Enhance the heat by adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the filling. This fiery twist awakens your taste buds and adds a playful element to the traditional pot pie.
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Cheesy Delight: For an even cheesier biscuit topping, mix in a combination of Parmesan or Gruyère cheese into the dough. The additional cheesy goodness will make each bite irresistibly creamy and flavorful.
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Crusty Option: Instead of biscuits, use a flaky pie crust for a classic pot pie experience. A golden crust brings a traditional touch and perfectly complements the rich filling.
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Citrus Zing: Brighten the flavors with a splash of fresh lemon juice or zest added to the filling. This subtle citrus note balances the richness and brings a refreshing brightness to the dish.
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Seafood Variety: Mix and match seafood—try tender scallops, shrimp, and firm white fish like cod or halibut for a playground of ocean flavors. Each seafood brings its own unique taste and texture, making for a truly customizable feast.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like dill, chives, or tarragon to infuse your filling with vibrant flavor. Herbs not only enhance the dish but also create a beautiful aromatic experience that invites everyone to the table.
What to Serve with Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie?
Imagine a cozy gathering around the dinner table, where the comforting aroma of seafood and flaky biscuits sets the mood for a delightful meal.
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Crisp Caesar Salad: The crunch of chilled romaine and the saltiness of Parmesan add a refreshing contrast to the creamy pot pie.
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Garlic Roasted Broccolini: This flavorful vegetable brings a touch of bitterness that beautifully balances the richness of the seafood filling.
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Zesty Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of lemon juice brightens and enhances the flavors of the seafood, offering a refreshing zing in every bite.
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Creamy Coleslaw: The coolness and crunch of slaw perfectly complement the warm pot pie, creating a delightful textural contrast.
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Savory Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky goodness of this bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce, making every bite memorable.
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Chilled White Wine: A glass of bright Sauvignon Blanc elevates the meal, enhancing the flavors of the seafood and adding a touch of elegance.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal berries and citrus adds a light, sweet finish that cleanses the palate after a rich dish.
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Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, this light and refreshing option provides a perfect contrast to the hearty pot pie and enhances the meal’s zestiness.
Each of these pairings adds a unique touch to your culinary experience, ensuring every bite of your Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie is truly special!
Make Ahead Options
These Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pies are perfect for meal prep and can be made ahead to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the seafood filling and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Just sauté the vegetables, create the creamy sauce, and fold in the seafood, then let it cool before transferring to an airtight container. To maintain quality, it’s best to prepare the biscuit dough no more than 24 hours in advance and keep it wrapped in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, pour the chilled filling into a baking dish, drop the biscuit dough on top, and bake until golden. With this prep, you’ll enjoy a cozy, homemade meal with minimal last-minute fuss!
Expert Tips for Seafood Pot Pie
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Cold Ingredients: Use cold butter for the biscuit dough to create those flaky layers we love in Cheddar Bay Biscuits.
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Don’t Overmix: Mix the biscuit dough just until combined. Overmixing will result in tough, dense biscuits—no one wants that in a comforting seafood pot pie!
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Cool the Filling: Allow the seafood filling to cool slightly before dolling out the biscuit topping. This step helps avoid a soggy biscuit base.
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Season Generously: Be sure to season your seafood pot pie well! The rich flavors of Old Bay, paprika, and garlic elevate the dish and make every bite delightful.
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Keep an Eye on Baking: Check the pot pie while baking. If the biscuits start browning too quickly, protect them with a loose foil cover to ensure even cooking.
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Customization Possibility: Feel free to swap in your favorite seafood or seasonal veggies for a personalized seafood pot pie experience!
Seafood Pot Pie with Cheddar Bay Biscuit Topping Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best seafood for my pot pie?
When selecting seafood, look for fresh shrimp and crab that smell briny and sweet, not fishy. For frozen options, choose products that are flash-frozen at sea for peak freshness. If you prefer alternatives, lobster, scallops, or firm white fish like cod are fantastic substitutions that work beautifully in this Seafood Pot Pie with Cheddar Bay Biscuit Topping.
How should I store leftover seafood pot pie?
Keep your Seafood Pot Pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. To ensure the flavors remain rich and the biscuits retain their texture, reheat individual portions in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes. This way, you can enjoy leftovers almost as good as freshly baked!
Can I freeze the seafood pot pie?
Absolutely! If you want to prepare it in advance, freeze the unbaked Seafood Pot Pie tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 2 months. To bake from frozen, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes, ensuring the biscuits are golden and the filling is piping hot.
What’s the best way to reheat a seafood pot pie?
Reheat your Seafood Pot Pie in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes if it’s already baked. If frozen, it may take longer—about 25-30 minutes. For moistness, consider adding a splash of broth before covering it. If the biscuits brown too quickly, cover them loosely with foil to avoid burning.
Are there any dietary considerations for this pot pie?
If you’re accommodating allergies or dietary preferences, you can easily make this Seafood Pot Pie gluten-free by using gluten-free flour for the filling and biscuits. To create a dairy-free version, substitute margarine for butter and use a non-dairy milk alternative mixed with vinegar in place of buttermilk. Always ensure your seafood is sourced from allergen-free environments if necessary.
What if my biscuit dough is too sticky or dry?
If your biscuit dough feels too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it reaches the right consistency. On the other hand, if the dough is too dry, gently mix in a small amount of melted butter or buttermilk until it holds together without being overly wet. Remember, don’t overmix—this keeps your biscuits tender and fluffy!
Seafood Pot Pie with Cheddar Bay Biscuit Topping Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet, melt butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, celery, and mushrooms. Sauté for 5-6 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Sprinkle flour over the sautéed vegetables and cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate any raw flour taste. Gradually add broth and heavy cream, whisking until smooth. Stir in paprika and Old Bay seasoning, then simmer for about 5 minutes until thickened.
- Gently fold in shrimp, crab meat, frozen peas, and chopped parsley. Cook just until the shrimp turns pink, then remove from heat, allowing the mixture to cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, garlic powder, and salt. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese. Then, add melted butter and buttermilk, mixing until just combined; overmixing can lead to tough biscuits.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Pour the seafood filling into a greased baking dish. Drop spoonfuls of biscuit dough over the filling, making sure to cover most of the surface. Brush the tops with melted butter for a golden finish.
- Place in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You'll know it's done when the biscuits are golden brown and the filling is bubbling. If the biscuits brown too quickly, cover them loosely with foil.
- Once baked, let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to settle. Garnish with extra parsley or cheese if desired for an added touch.