If you have ever dreamed of the ultimate comfort food that brings together the flaky, tender seafood filling with the irresistible cheesy goodness of biscuits, then the Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine succulent shrimp, luscious crab meat, and hearty fish enveloped in a creamy sauce studded with vibrant veggies, all crowned with golden cheddar bay biscuits that soak up every bit of flavor. This dish is warm, cozy, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser whether for a family dinner or a special occasion. Get ready to dive into a palette of tastes and textures that feels just like a comforting hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in its straightforward yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in building those layers of flavor and texture—from the fresh seafood to the creamy broth and the famous cheddar bay biscuit topping. Here’s everything you’ll want on hand to bring this dish to life.
- Shrimp (1 lb): Peeled and deveined for ease and perfect bite-sized pieces that cook quickly.
- Crab meat or imitation crab (1 lb): Adds a sweet, briny element that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
- Fish fillets (1 cup): Cod or haddock cut into chunks provide a mild flavor and firm texture.
- Frozen mixed vegetables (1 cup): Peas, carrots, and corn add color, sweetness, and a nice crunch.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): The key to that rich, velvety sauce that makes every spoonful luxurious.
- Chicken or seafood broth (2 cups): Forms the flavorful base of the pot pie’s creamy filling.
- Garlic powder (1 tsp): Brings subtle warmth and fragrant depth.
- Onion powder (1 tsp): Adds a gentle savory note that complements the seafood.
- Dried thyme (1 tsp): Offers a fresh, earthy aroma that ties the dish together.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings that brighten and balance all the flavors.
- Cheddar bay biscuit mix (1 package): The star that turns this ordinary pot pie into something extraordinary with its cheesy, herby crust.
- Milk (¾ cup): Mixed with biscuit mix for perfect dough texture.
- Melted butter (¼ cup): For brushing the biscuit tops to golden perfection and extra richness.
How to Make Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie Recipe
Step 1: Season and Sauté the Seafood
Begin by seasoning the shrimp, crab meat, and fish chunks with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme. Letting them rest even briefly enhances the flavor melding. Then sauté the seasoned seafood in a large pot over medium heat for about 3-5 minutes until just opaque and enticingly fragrant. This initial cooking locks in the delicate seafood flavors and sets the foundation for the pot pie filling.
Step 2: Create the Creamy Filling
Using the same pot, pour in the chicken or seafood broth and gently whisk in the heavy cream. Allow the mixture to simmer until it thickens to a luscious coating consistency. This silky base will cradle the seafood and vegetables, enriching the dish with warmth and depth.
Step 3: Add the Vegetables
Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables and cook until they are tender and vibrantly colored. These veggies not only bring a fresh sweetness and crunch but also brighten the overall appearance, making the dish as beautiful as it is tasty.
Step 4: Combine Seafood with Filling
Return the sautéed seafood to the pot and mix everything together. The creamy base, verdant vegetables, and tender seafood meld into a harmonious filling bursting with flavor, ready to be crowned with biscuits.
Step 5: Prepare the Cheddar Bay Biscuit Topping
In a bowl, combine the cheddar bay biscuit mix and milk, folding gently to form a soft dough. Be careful not to over-mix so your biscuits stay tender and fluffy once baked—this step is key to that melt-in-your-mouth texture you want atop your pot pie.
Step 6: Assemble and Bake
Divide the seafood mixture into individual baking dishes or a large pot pie dish. Spoon dollops of the biscuit dough evenly across the top, shaping gently to allow steam to escape. Bake at 375°F for 15-17 minutes until the biscuits rise and develop a gorgeous golden-brown crust.
Step 7: Finish with Butter
Right out of the oven, brush the biscuit tops with melted butter. This finishing touch enhances the biscuit’s sheen and adds an irresistible richness that invites you to dig in immediately.
How to Serve Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a few curls of lemon zest can brighten your presentation and add a fresh zing that perfectly balances the rich filling. These simple garnishes also elevate the dish visually, making it as Instagram-worthy as it is delicious.
Side Dishes
While this pot pie is a hearty meal on its own, serving it alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or a plate of roasted asparagus provides a crisp, refreshing counterpoint. Light sides help balance the richness and keep the meal feeling well-rounded.
Creative Ways to Present
Try assembling the pot pie in individual ramekins for elegant personal servings, perfect for dinner parties or a cozy night in. Alternatively, a large rustic dish creates a warming centerpiece for family-style meals. Using clear glass bakeware also lets you show off the beautiful layers inside, adding a decorative touch right from your oven to the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie Recipe can be conveniently stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the freshness of both the creamy filling and biscuits, keep them covered tightly and avoid letting the biscuits get soggy by storing separately if possible.
Freezing
If you want to prep in advance, you can freeze the assembled pot pie before baking. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil to protect the biscuit topping and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, bake directly from frozen, adding a little extra time to the cooking process to ensure it’s heated through perfectly.
Reheating
For best results when reheating, thaw refrigerated or frozen leftovers overnight in the fridge. Warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until heated evenly and the biscuit topping regains some of its crispness. Microwaving is quicker but may result in softer biscuits.
FAQs
Can I substitute the seafood?
Absolutely! You can use any firm white fish or shellfish you prefer, like scallops or lobster. Just be sure to adjust cooking times slightly to avoid overcooking delicate seafood.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
You can make dairy-free adjustments by using plant-based cream and milk substitutes, along with a dairy-free biscuit mix if available. Keep in mind it will change the flavor slightly but still yield a delicious, creamy pot pie.
What if I don’t have cheddar bay biscuit mix?
While the unique flavor and texture from the biscuit mix are a highlight, you can substitute with a homemade biscuit dough that includes cheddar cheese and herbs. This allows you to customize the seasoning while keeping that comforting biscuit crust.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes! Using a gluten-free biscuit mix and ensuring your broth and seasonings are gluten-free can make this recipe accessible without sacrificing taste. Just watch the baking time as gluten-free doughs may bake differently.
How do I know when the pot pie is done?
The biscuit topping should be golden brown and slightly crisp, and the filling should be bubbling around the edges. Insert a toothpick into the biscuit; if it comes out cleanish and the biscuit feels springy, it’s ready to enjoy.
Final Thoughts
Nothing beats the soul-soothing combination of the Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie Recipe for a meal that feels both indulgent and homey. Each bite delivers a luscious blend of creamy seafood with the savory cheese biscuit topping that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this magnificent dish – I promise it will become a treasured favorite in no time.
PrintCheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie Recipe
Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie is a comforting, savory dish featuring a creamy seafood filling loaded with shrimp, crab, and flaky fish, mixed vegetables, and a luscious cream sauce. This filling is topped with rich, cheesy cheddar bay biscuit dough baked to golden perfection, creating a delightful blend of textures and flavors perfect for a cozy meal.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Seafood and Filling
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 lb crab meat or imitation crab
- 1 cup fish fillets (e.g., cod or haddock), cut into chunks
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups chicken or seafood broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Biscuit Topping
- 1 package of cheddar bay biscuit mix (includes cheddar cheese and seasoning)
- ¾ cup milk
- ¼ cup melted butter (for brushing)
Instructions
- Season the seafood: In a bowl, combine peeled and deveined shrimp, crab meat, and fish chunks with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme. Let the mixture rest to allow the flavors to meld.
- Sauté the seafood: Heat a large pot over medium heat and cook the seasoned seafood for 3-5 minutes until just opaque and fragrant. Remove the seafood from the pot and set aside.
- Create the creamy filling: In the same pot, pour in the chicken or seafood broth and gently whisk in the heavy cream. Allow this mixture to simmer until it thickens slightly and can coat the back of a spoon.
- Add the vegetables: Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables and cook until they are tender and vibrant, adding texture and sweetness to the filling.
- Incorporate the seafood: Return the sautéed seafood to the pot and mix well with the creamy vegetable mixture, ensuring an even, savory filling.
- Prepare the biscuit topping: In a bowl, combine the cheddar bay biscuit mix with milk, folding gently until a soft dough forms. Avoid over-mixing to keep the biscuits tender.
- Assemble the pot pie: Divide the seafood filling into individual pots or a large baking dish. Top each with the biscuit dough, shaping the dough to allow steam to escape during baking.
- Bake to perfection: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the pot pie for 15-17 minutes until the biscuit topping is golden brown and slightly crisp.
- Finish with melted butter: Remove from the oven and brush the biscuit tops with melted butter to enhance color and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, cheesy seafood pot pie.
Notes
- Use fresh or thawed seafood to ensure proper cooking and flavor.
- For a richer flavor, substitute seafood broth for chicken broth.
- Do not over-mix the biscuit dough to keep the biscuits light and fluffy.
- If using imitation crab, be mindful of added salts and adjust seasoning accordingly.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the biscuit topping at its crispiest.
