Picture this: a bustling kitchen filled with the heavenly scent of seafood and freshly baked biscuits, all coming together in one delicious dish. That’s how my family knew it was time for my Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie, a recipe that has quickly become a favorite around our dinner table. It’s the perfect antidote to the ordinary weeknight dinner, transforming simple ingredients like shrimp, crab, and veggies into an experience that feels special.
I stumbled upon this delightful creation during a cozy weekend, wanting to whip up something comforting yet different. The combination of creamy seafood filling topped with cheesy, flaky biscuits creates a satisfying contrast that delights the senses. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, taking just about an hour from start to finish!
Whether you’re impressing guests or just looking to break free from the fast-food routine, this pot pie delivers in flavor, warmth, and a whole lot of comfort. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that elevates home cooking to new heights!
Why is Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie Perfect?
Comforting, decadent flavors come together in this dish, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Quick and easy to prepare, you can impress your family or guests without spending all day in the kitchen. Seafood lovers rejoice as shrimp and crab meat shine in a creamy filling, while flaky biscuits bring a delightful texture balance. Perfect as a hearty weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering dish, you won’t want to miss out on this unique twist on a classic pot pie—try it today!
Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie Ingredients
• All the essentials you’ll need!
For the Seafood Filling
- Shrimp – peeled and deveined for a succulent bite.
- Lump crab meat – adds rich, sweet flavor that’s a true treat.
- Frozen mixed vegetables – a convenient way to introduce color and nutrition.
- Butter – for rich flavor and a base for the creamy filling.
- All-purpose flour – helps thicken the filling for that perfect pot pie texture.
- Seafood stock – enhances the dish’s seafood essence.
- Heavy cream – adds indulgent creaminess to the filling.
- Garlic powder – infuses a warm, aromatic flavor.
- Onion powder – gives an extra layer of savory depth.
- Dried thyme – brings a hint of earthiness to the confetti of seafood.
- Salt and pepper – essential for balancing flavors to perfection.
For the Biscuit Topping
- Cheddar Bay biscuit mix – makes your life easier without compromising on taste.
- Shredded cheddar cheese – introduces rich cheese flavor that pairs wonderfully with seafood.
- Milk – helps form a soft dough for the biscuit topping.
How to Make Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This sets the perfect temperature for baking those delightful biscuits while ensuring the seafood filling is heated through.
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Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp and cook until they turn a lovely pink, about 3-4 minutes. Gently stir in the crab meat and frozen vegetables, allowing everything to mix beautifully.
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Sprinkle flour over the seafood mixture. Stir to coat and gradually pour in the seafood stock and heavy cream. Keep stirring continuously until the sauce starts to simmer and thickens, which should take about 5 minutes.
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Season with garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well to ensure the flavors marry, then remove from heat, giving you that rich aroma that says “comfort food.”
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Pour the creamy seafood mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or a large oven-safe skillet. Spread it out evenly to ensure each bite is packed with goodness.
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Combine the Cheddar Bay biscuit mix, shredded cheddar cheese, and milk in a mixing bowl. Stir until a soft dough forms; this will create the flaky topping that pairs so well with the filling.
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Dollop spoonfuls of the biscuit dough over the seafood filling. Don’t worry about being perfect; letting some filling peek through will give it a rustic charm!
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Bake in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the biscuit topping turns golden brown and is cooked through, filling your home with an irresistible aroma.
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Cool the dish for about 15 minutes before serving. This wait allows the filling to set just right, making serving easier and preventing any spills.
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Spoon generous portions onto plates, and enjoy the comforting warmth of your Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie with loved ones!
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie elements are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the seafood filling up to 3 days in advance: simply cook and combine all the ingredients up to step 4, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This chilling allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the seafood fresh. You can also mix the biscuit dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, reheat the filling gently on the stove until warmed through, then spoon the biscuit dough over the top and bake as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy that comforting, home-cooked flavor with minimal effort, making meal time a breeze!
Expert Tips for Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie
- Fresh Seafood: Always use fresh shrimp and crab if possible. Frozen seafood can work, but fresh offers unbeatable flavor and texture.
- Avoid Sogginess: Don’t skip the cooling time! Letting the pot pie cool for 15 minutes helps the filling set, preventing a soggy bottom.
- Biscuit Texture: For the perfect flaky biscuit topping, be careful not to overmix the biscuit dough; stir just until combined for a light texture.
- Season to Taste: Adjust seasonings based on your preference; don’t be shy with salt and pepper to really enhance the flavors of the Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie.
- Add Veggies: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables for extra color and nutrition, but keep the proportions balanced to not overpower the seafood.
Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own with these fun variations!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use dairy-free biscuit mix for a creamy, non-dairy delight. Enjoy the tropical twist of coconut!
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Vegetable Swap: Replace frozen mixed vegetables with fresh spinach and diced bell peppers for a vibrant veggie boost. This adds both color and freshness to your pot pie.
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the seafood filling for a touch of heat. Let the spice take your taste buds on an exciting flavor journey!
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Seafood Variety: Mix in scallops or mussels along with shrimp and crab to create a luxurious medley of seafood. More variety means more flavor and texture in every bite!
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Herb Infusion: Swap dried thyme for fresh parsley or dill for a bright burst of herbal goodness. Fresh herbs elevate the dish and provide aromatic scents while cooking.
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Whole Wheat Biscuit Topping: Use whole wheat biscuit mix for a heartier, more nutritious topping. This adds a lovely nutty flavor that complements the seafood beautifully.
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Creamy Mushroom Addition: Stir in sautéed mushrooms into the seafood mixture for an earthy, savory twist. The mushrooms add depth and enhance the creamy filling.
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Cheesy Goodness: Add a sprinkle of parmesan cheese on top of the biscuit dough before baking for an extra cheesy, crispy layer. It’s a delightful surprise with each bite!
What to Serve with Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie?
Imagine a delightful dinner spread that complements the warmth and richness of your pot pie perfectly; these pairing ideas will elevate your meal to new heights.
- Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed until tender, these vibrant green beans add a fresh crunch, contrasting beautifully with the creamy filling.
- Mixed Greens Salad: A light and zesty salad with a vinegar-based dressing balances the richness of the pot pie, refreshing your palate between bites.
Pairing those two sides enhances your dining experience, making every spoonful of pot pie even more enjoyable.
- Crispy Roasted Potatoes: Golden and fluffy on the inside, they provide a hearty side that echoes the comforting theme of your meal.
- Cornbread Muffins: Sweet and buttery, cornbread muffins are a charming side that works well with the seafood in the pot pie and adds a fun texture.
Imagine serving these muffins warm, enticing everyone to reach for seconds!
- Chardonnay: A glass of chilled Chardonnay enhances the seafood’s natural flavors and adds a touch of elegance to your table.
- Lemon Sorbet: A refreshing dessert that cleanses the palate, it’s a delightful way to conclude your meal after the rich pot pie.
How to Store and Freeze Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Freezer: Freeze the unbaked Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating: If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking. Reheat baked leftovers in the oven for best texture. Microwave can work, but may make biscuits soggy.
Serving: Allow the dish to cool for 15 minutes before serving to let the filling set, enhancing the overall experience!
Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie Recipe FAQs
How should I select seafood for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the freshest flavor, I recommend using wild-caught shrimp and lump crab meat. Look for shrimp that are firm and have a slight sheen, while crab meat should smell briny but not fishy. If you can find them at your local market, that’s even better!
How do I store leftovers of the Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie?
Very easily! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy more of this delicious treat, simply reheat it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through and delightful.
Can I freeze this pot pie?
Yes, you can! To freeze, wrap the unbaked Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. This method keeps it fresh for up to 3 months. This way, you’ll have a quick and delightful meal ready whenever you need it!
What should I do if my filling is too runny?
If you find that your filling is a bit runny, don’t fret! Here’s what you can do: let it simmer longer on the stovetop for an additional 3-5 minutes to thicken further. You can also mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold water to create a slurry, then stir this into your filling; cook until thickened.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! If you’re cooking for guests with allergies, be mindful that shellfish is a common allergen. You might consider using chicken or a medley of vegetables instead of seafood for a vegetarian option. Just make sure to adjust your cooking time as needed!
Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie: Cozy Comfort in Every Bite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This sets the perfect temperature for baking those delightful biscuits while ensuring the seafood filling is heated through.
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp and cook until they turn a lovely pink, about 3-4 minutes. Gently stir in the crab meat and frozen vegetables, allowing everything to mix beautifully.
- Sprinkle flour over the seafood mixture. Stir to coat and gradually pour in the seafood stock and heavy cream. Keep stirring continuously until the sauce starts to simmer and thickens, which should take about 5 minutes.
- Season with garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well to ensure the flavors marry, then remove from heat.
- Pour the creamy seafood mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or a large oven-safe skillet. Spread it out evenly.
- Combine the Cheddar Bay biscuit mix, shredded cheddar cheese, and milk in a mixing bowl. Stir until a soft dough forms.
- Dollop spoonfuls of the biscuit dough over the seafood filling.
- Bake in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the biscuit topping turns golden brown.
- Cool the dish for about 15 minutes before serving.
- Spoon generous portions onto plates and enjoy the warmth with loved ones!
