As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of melting cheese and sautéed seafood wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to comforting coastal dinners. This Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie takes traditional comfort food to new heights, featuring a luscious cream-filled blend of shrimp, langostino, and crab, all nestled beneath a golden, cheesy biscuit crust. It’s the perfect dish for cozy evenings with family or impressing friends at gatherings, thanks to its quick prep and gourmet flair. Plus, there’s a gluten-free option available, making it accessible for everyone at the table. Are you ready to dive into a bowl of creamy, seafood goodness? Let’s get cooking!
Why is this pot pie a must-try?
Comforting Flavors: Every bite of this Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie brings warm, nostalgic flavors that remind you of family dinners by the sea.
Effortless Preparation: With simple ingredients and quick steps, you can create a gourmet dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
Crowd Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, this dish not only impresses but also satisfies a variety of palates with its rich seafood medley.
Customizable: Feel free to experiment by adding your favorite veggies or swapping seafood based on what you have, allowing for a personalized touch.
Gluten-Free Option: Everyone deserves to enjoy this delicious comfort food, and a gluten-free variation caters to all dietary needs, letting everyone indulge!
So, why not serve it alongside a light salad or pair it with our delightful Raspberry Cream Pie for a perfect meal?
Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie Ingredients
For the Seafood Filling
- Shrimp – Provides protein and texture; ensure peeled and deveined for convenience.
- Langostino Tails or Lobster – Adds sweetness and gourmet flair; can substitute with scallops or other shellfish.
- Jumbo Lump Crabmeat – Rich in flavor and enhances the seafood profile; use cooked crabmeat for the best results.
- Onions – Adds aromatic flavor; can substitute with shallots for a sweeter taste.
- Bell Pepper – Offers color and sweetness; feel free to use any color bell pepper.
- Celery – Contributes crunch and depth; no substitutions needed.
- Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to your personal taste.
- Olive Oil – Used for sautéing; any cooking oil can substitute.
For the Creamy Gravy
- Chicken Broth – Serves as the base for the gravy; vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian option.
- Heavy Cream – Adds richness and creaminess to the gravy; can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Butter – Provides flavor and a rich mouthfeel; use unsalted for better control over seasoning.
- Flour – Thickens the gravy; swap with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
- Garlic – Introduces aromatic flavor; use minced fresh garlic or paste.
- Thyme and Tarragon – Aromatic herbs that enhance the flavor profile; dried herbs can be used.
- Smoked Paprika – Adds a hint of smokiness; regular paprika can be used as an alternative.
For the Biscuit Topping
- Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix – The star ingredient that saves time; feel free to replace with any biscuit mix.
- Milk – Used to bind the biscuit mix; non-dairy milk can be substituted for a dairy-free version.
- Mild Cheddar Cheese – Adds extra cheesiness to the topping; any cheese variety can be used.
Finishing Touch
- Herb Butter Sauce – Enhances the flavor of the baked pot pie with a delicious garlic herb topping.
Dive into the goodness of this Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie! Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating that creamy, comforting blend that makes every bite a delight.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie
Step 1: Sear the Seafood
Begin by heating a skillet over medium heat and adding a splash of olive oil. Once hot, add the peeled and deveined shrimp and langostino tails seasoned with salt and pepper. Sear for about 2-3 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the seafood from the pan and set aside while you prepare the vegetable base.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, toss in a bit more olive oil if needed, then add the diced onions, bell pepper, and celery. Sauté these aromatics for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables have softened and become fragrant. This will lay a flavorful foundation for your Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie filling.
Step 3: Make the Gravy
Add a tablespoon of unsalted butter to the sautéed vegetables and let it melt. Once melted, sprinkle in the flour, stirring constantly for about 2 minutes until the mixture appears golden and bubbly. Gradually pour in the chicken broth while continuing to stir, followed by heavy cream, and allow it to simmer. Then add minced garlic, thyme, tarragon, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes until thickened.
Step 4: Combine the Seafood
Carefully return the seared seafood mixture to the skillet, stirring gently to combine everything with the creamy gravy. Cook for just a couple of minutes over low heat to ensure the seafood is heated through without overcooking. The filling should be rich and fragrant, promising generous flavor in your Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie.
Step 5: Prepare Biscuit Topping
In a separate bowl, combine the Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix with the required amount of milk and shredded mild cheddar cheese. Stir gently until a dough forms, being careful not to overmix; the dough should be slightly sticky but well-combined. This biscuit mix will provide a delicious, cheesy topping for your pot pie.
Step 6: Assemble and Bake
Preheat your oven to 425°F (190°C). Transfer the creamy seafood filling into individual ramekins or a large baking dish, smoothing it into an even layer. Top generously with the biscuit dough, spreading it out to cover the filling. Bake for approximately 14-16 minutes, or until the biscuits are puffed and golden brown, creating that perfect contrast to the creamy filling beneath.
Step 7: Finish with Herb Butter Sauce
Once your Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie is out of the oven, melt a few tablespoons of butter and mix in some garlic herb seasoning to create a fragrant drizzle. Brush this melted herb butter over the hot biscuits for an extra layer of luscious flavor that will enhance each bite of this comforting dish.
Expert Tips for Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie
- Proper Searing: Ensure seafood is not overcrowded in the pan when searing; this allows even cooking and prevents steaming, ensuring a delightful texture.
- Gravy Thickness: Adjust the flour quantity based on desired gravy thickness. Too little flour will result in a runny filling, while too much can make it overly thick.
- Biscuit Texture: Avoid overmixing the biscuit dough; it should be slightly sticky and gentle folding helps keep it light and fluffy once baked.
- Filling Variation: Feel free to swap the seafood for your favorite veggies or mushrooms for a vegetarian variant of this Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie.
- Storage Know-How: If storing leftovers, separate the filling and biscuits to maintain freshness; reheat the biscuits separately to keep them crispy.
How to Store and Freeze Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps your Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie fresh and ready to enjoy.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the filling separately from the biscuit topping in airtight containers. The filling can last up to 2 months, while biscuits can be frozen for up to 1 month.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the filling overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes. Reheat biscuits separately on a baking sheet for about 5 minutes to retain their crispiness.
Assembly Tip: For the best results, assemble and bake your Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie just before serving. This way, you can enjoy that delightful texture and flavor fresh from the oven!
What to Serve with Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie
A well-rounded meal elevates your dining experience, and these delightful pairings will surely complement your pot pie.
- Garlic Butter Green Beans: Tender green beans sautéed in garlic butter add a fresh crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy pot pie.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing and parmesan provides a tangy punch to balance the richness of the seafood filling.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables brings out sweet, caramelized flavors, enhancing the hearty dish.
- Quinoa Salad: A cool quinoa salad with cucumber, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing touch as well as a nutty flavor profile.
- Creamy Coleslaw: Bright and crunchy coleslaw dressed in tangy mayo creates a delightful contrast to the warm, savory pot pie.
- Tart Lemonade: A chilled glass of homemade lemonade or a spritz of lemon soda adds a zesty pop that cleanses the palate between bites.
- Cornbread Muffins: Slightly sweet, fluffy cornbread muffins provide a comforting texture that pairs perfectly with the pot pie’s savory filling.
- Peach Crisp: Warm peach crisp with a scoop of vanilla ice cream offers a sweet ending, balancing the meal with fruity brightness.
- Sparkling Water: For a refreshing drink option, sparkling water with a slice of lemon perfectly complements the meal without overpowering the flavors.
Make Ahead Options
This Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie is ideal for meal prep, making busy weeknights a breeze! You can prepare the creamy seafood filling up to 3 days in advance. Simply follow steps 1 through 4, then allow the mixture to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container for refrigeration. For best quality, stir in the seafood just before you’re ready to bake. When you’re set to serve, preheat your oven, top the filling with your prepared biscuit dough, and bake for approximately 14-16 minutes until golden and bubbling. With these make-ahead steps, you’ll enjoy a delightful dish with minimal effort while savoring delicious flavor!
Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie Variations
Feel free to get creative with this Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie and let your taste buds dance with joy!
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Seafood Swap: Substitute langostino or crab with scallops or a mix of shrimp for a different flavor profile. Each seafood option brings its unique texture and taste, keeping it fresh every time you make it!
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Veggie Boost: Add vegetables like peas, carrots, or spinach to enrich the filling with added nutrition and color. Just a handful of greens transforms this dish into a vibrant feast.
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Dairy-Free Delight: For a dairy-free version, switch to non-dairy milk, butter, and cheese. You won’t even miss the creaminess in this comforting pot pie!
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Herbal Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or dill in place of thyme and tarragon for a refreshing twist. This simple change can elevate the flavor profile and make it your own.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for heat. Spice lovers will appreciate this hot touch merging with the creamy dynamics of the pie.
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Gluten-Free Goodness: Use gluten-free flour and biscuit mix for a gluten-free option. Everyone deserves to indulge in the comforts of this delicious pot pie!
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Crispy Topping: Replace the Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix with homemade garlic and herb biscuits for a uniquely textured topping. Each bite becomes an exciting contrast of flavors and textures.
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Smoky Notes: Use smoked paprika or chipotle powder in the filling to add a smoky depth. This subtle enhancement will take your pot pie to another level while complementing the seafood beautifully.
Accompany your meal with a light salad or enjoy a slice of our Rustic Rhubarb Cinnamon Pie for a delightful end!
Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie Recipe FAQs
What type of seafood is best for the filling?
Absolutely! For a well-rounded flavor, I recommend using peeled and deveined shrimp, langostino tails, and jumbo lump crabmeat. If you’re feeling adventurous, scallops or other shellfish can easily step in and provide a different taste profile.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, placing it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes helps maintain that crispy biscuit topping while warming the creamy filling perfectly.
Can I freeze the Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie?
Certainly! For best results, freeze the filling separately from the biscuit topping. The filling will stay fresh for up to 2 months, while the biscuits can be frozen for about 1 month. When ready to eat, thaw the filling in the fridge overnight and reheat both components as detailed above.
What if my pot pie filling is too thick or too thin?
No worries! If your filling is too thick, gradually stir in a bit more chicken broth until the desired consistency is reached. Conversely, if it’s too thin, sprinkle in a bit more flour while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. A good guideline is about 1 tablespoon of flour at a time until you’re happy with the thickness.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes, it can! To enjoy a gluten-free Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie, simply use gluten-free flour and a gluten-free biscuit mix. Be sure all your broth and seasonings are marked gluten-free as well. This allows everyone to indulge in this comforting dish!
Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie That's Pure Comfort Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Sear shrimp and langostino tails seasoned with salt and pepper for 2-3 minutes until pink, then set aside.
- In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed, then sauté diced onions, bell pepper, and celery for 5 minutes until softened.
- Add unsalted butter to the vegetables. Once melted, sprinkle in flour and stir constantly for 2 minutes. Gradually add chicken broth then heavy cream, and simmer while stirring.
- Add minced garlic, thyme, tarragon, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until thickened.
- Return the seafood mix to the skillet, stir gently, and heat through over low heat.
- In a separate bowl, combine Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix, milk, and shredded cheddar cheese to form a dough.
- Preheat oven to 425°F (190°C). Transfer the seafood filling to a baking dish, top with biscuit dough. Bake for 14-16 minutes until golden brown.
- Melt butter and mix with garlic herb seasoning. Brush over hot biscuits after baking.