As I stood in my kitchen, the delightful scent of warm, cheesy biscuits wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to a cozy seaside diner. This Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie combines the savory richness of tender shrimp, decadent crab, and flavorful langostino all enveloped in a creamy herbed gravy. It's the ultimate seafood pot pie, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or as a stunning showpiece for your next gathering. What I love most about this recipe is its quick prep time, thanks to the store-bought biscuit mix, and the ability to cater to gluten-free guests without sacrificing flavor. Are you ready to bring some coastal charm to your dinner table? Let’s dive into this comforting dish together!
Why is this Seafood Pot Pie so special?
Quick Preparation: This recipe is perfect for busy evenings, utilizing store-bought Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix to save you time without compromising on flavor.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of seafood—tender shrimp, rich crab, and langostino—enveloped in a creamy herbed gravy will transport your taste buds straight to the coast.
Comforting Hearty Dish: With its flaky, cheesy biscuit topping, this pot pie is the ideal comfort food, perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in.
Versatile Variations: Easily modify the filling to cater to your dietary needs; try a vegetarian twist with mushrooms or ensure it's gluten-free without losing any of that delicious flavor.
Captivating Aroma: As it bakes, the enticing aroma will fill your home, making it a dish that your loved ones will eagerly anticipate.
Ideal for pairing with a fresh garden salad or a slice of warm apple pie, this Seafood Pot Pie is sure to impress.
Seafood Pot Pie Ingredients
• Dive into the deliciousness of this Seafood Pot Pie with these key components!
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Shrimp: Tender and sweet; fresh or frozen works well.
Note: Ensure shrimp is cooked just until opaque to avoid rubberiness. -
Langostino Tails: Rich in flavor; can substitute with lobster if necessary.
Note: Thaw properly if using frozen. -
Jumbo Lump Crabmeat: Adds luxurious texture and a taste of the sea.
Note: Use fresh crab for the best flavor. -
Onions: Enhances the savory base; yellow or white onions are ideal.
Note: Sauté until softened for optimal flavor. -
Bell Pepper: Adds color and sweetness; available in red, yellow, or green.
Note: Cut into small pieces to blend well in the filling. -
Celery: Provides subtle crunch and enhances flavor.
Note: Chop finely for even cooking. -
Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.
Note: Freshly cracked pepper offers a superior flavor. -
Chicken Broth: Forms the gravy base; use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
Note: Ensure it's low-sodium if needed for dietary preferences. -
Heavy Cream: Adds richness to the gravy; can substitute with half-and-half to lighten.
Note: Non-dairy alternatives can be used for a dairy-free option. -
Butter: Provides rich flavor; olive oil is a suitable dairy-free substitute.
Note: Be mindful of browning, use low heat when melting. -
Flour: Thickens the gravy; consider a gluten-free alternative if needed.
Note: Whisk well to avoid lumps. -
Garlic: Adds aromatic depth; use minced or garlic paste.
Note: Sauté lightly to release fragrance. -
Thyme & Tarragon: Provide fragrance and complexity; fresh can be substituted with dried.
Note: Adjust amounts based on preference. -
Smoked Paprika: Infuses warmth; adjust to taste for a bit of spice.
Note: Use both for a depth of flavor. -
Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix: A ready-made option for quick preparation.
Note: Check for gluten-free varieties if needed. -
Milk: Provides moisture to the biscuit dough; non-dairy options are also viable.
Note: Use cold milk for a flaky biscuit texture. -
Mild Cheddar Cheese: Enhances the biscuit flavor; sharper cheese can be substituted for a kick.
Note: Be sure it's shredded for easy mixing. -
Garlic Herb Seasoning: From the biscuit mix; adds a flavorful finishing touch.
Note: Customize by using your choice of herbs.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie
Step 1: Sear the Seafood
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and langostino tails, cooking until they turn opaque, about 2-3 minutes. Once cooked, remove them from the skillet and set aside, allowing them to retain their delicious richness for the Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie filling.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
In the same skillet, add a splash of oil and sauté chopped onions, bell peppers, and finely chopped celery for approximately 5 minutes. Stir continuously until the vegetables soften and become fragrant, filling your kitchen with aromas that complement the seafood richness. This forms a savory base for your pot pie.
Step 3: Make the Gravy
Next, create a roux by melting butter in the skillet and whisking in flour. Gradually add the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring until the mixture thickens, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Season generously with minced garlic, thyme, tarragon, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully for your seafood pot pie.
Step 4: Combine Filling
Once your gravy is thickened and well-seasoned, gently fold in the seared seafood. Let the mixture simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, ensuring the seafood is evenly coated with the flavorful gravy. This step brings together all the delicious elements of the Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie.
Step 5: Prepare Biscuit Topping
In a separate bowl, combine the Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix, cold milk, and shredded mild cheddar cheese until just mixed. Be careful not to overmix, as this will ensure your topping remains flaky and tender. This simple mixture becomes the delightful crown for your seafood pot pie.
Step 6: Assemble and Bake
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Pour the creamy seafood filling into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. Dollop spoonfuls of the biscuit dough on top of the filling. Bake for 14-16 minutes, or until the biscuit topping is golden brown and flaky, creating a warm and inviting look for your Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie.
Step 7: Finish with Sauce
While the pot pie bakes, melt butter in a small pan and stir in garlic herb seasoning for a flavorful topping. Once the biscuit crust is ready, remove the pot pie from the oven and brush this seasoned butter over the warm biscuits for an extra layer of flavor that adds an inviting touch before serving.
How to Store and Freeze Seafood Pot Pie
Fridge: Store leftover Seafood Pot Pie in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes for the best texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unbaked Seafood Pot Pie for up to 2 months. Wrap well in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. Bake directly from frozen, adding extra time as needed.
Reheating: To reheat baked Seafood Pot Pie, cover with foil and heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. This keeps the biscuit topping from drying out.
Make-Ahead: Prepare the seafood filling and gravy a day in advance, storing it in the fridge. Assemble and bake the pot pie when ready to enjoy, ensuring freshness and flavor.
What to Serve with Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie
Immerse yourself in a cozy dining experience by complementing your pot pie with delightful sides and desserts.
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Garden Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the pot pie, refreshing your palate. Toss in some cherry tomatoes and cucumbers for a vibrant touch.
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Roasted Asparagus: Tender, roasted asparagus drizzled with lemon zest adds a bright, earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy seafood filling.
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Garlic Butter Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks brushed with garlic butter are perfect for soaking up the savory gravy in every bite, creating a comforting, hearty experience.
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Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds a crunchy texture to the meal, providing a delightful contrast to the pot pie’s creamy filling while enhancing the overall flavor profile.
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Savory Corn Pudding: Creamy corn pudding brings a touch of sweetness and warmth, making it a cozy complement to the seafood pot pie.
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Chardonnay: A chilled glass of crisp Chardonnay elevates the dining experience, its bright acidity perfectly enhancing the seafood flavors in the pot pie.
Seafood Pot Pie Variations
Feel free to play with this delightful Seafood Pot Pie recipe and make it your own, creating flavors that will tantalize your taste buds!
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Vegetarian Delight: Substitute the seafood with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach for a hearty, meatless version that’s packed with flavor.
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Gluten-Free Goodness: Use a gluten-free biscuit mix and make sure all other ingredients are gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy this comforting dish without worry.
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Creamy Dream: Swap the heavy cream for a rich coconut milk for a dairy-free, tropical twist that adds a hint of sweetness.
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Spice it Up: For a kick, sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños while making the gravy. This adds a fun, fiery flair!
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Herbaceous Twist: Experiment with different fresh herbs like dill or basil in place of thyme and tarragon. Each herb brings its own unique flavor, adding a refreshing change.
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Seafood Variety: Mix in cooked clams, scallops, or even lobster for a luxurious seafood medley, allowing your taste buds to indulge in a coastal feast.
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Cheeseburger Style: Add cooked ground beef and cheddar cheese for a surf-and-turf twist that'll amaze meat lovers while still keeping that pot pie essence.
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Smoky Flavor: Introduce smoked salmon or smoked paprika to elevate the dish with a rich, earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy filling.
The flexibility in this recipe means you can cater to dietary preferences and spice levels, ensuring every meal is a joy to create and share! If you're looking for more delicious options, consider trying an accompanying dish like a One Pot Creamy Vegetable Soup for a cozy pairing.
Make Ahead Options
These Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the seafood filling and gravy up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain the flavors. Simply follow the first four steps of the recipe and then refrigerate the filling before assembling. When you're ready to serve, pour the chilled filling into a greased baking dish, top with biscuit dough, and bake directly from the refrigerator for an extra 2-3 minutes if needed. This allows you to enjoy your comforting homemade Seafood Pot Pie with minimal effort on busy weeknights while ensuring it remains just as delicious!
Expert Tips for Seafood Pot Pie
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Perfectly Tender Seafood: Cook shrimp and langostino just until opaque; overcooking will lead to tough, rubbery seafood in your Seafood Pot Pie.
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Avoid Biscuit Dough Issues: Mix Cheddar Bay Biscuit dough until just combined; overmixing can create dense, tough biscuits that lose their delightful flakiness.
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Flavor Enhancements: For extra depth, consider adding a splash of white wine to the gravy for an elegant twist that perfectly complements the seafood.
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No Clumpy Gravy: Whisk flour thoroughly into melted butter to prevent lumps; this ensures a smooth, creamy gravy in your pot pie.
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Customize Your Filling: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or seafood; the recipe is flexible and can be adjusted to suit your tastes while keeping that comforting charm.
Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best seafood for this pot pie?
Absolutely! When selecting seafood, look for shrimp that are firm and slightly sweet, avoiding any with dark spots or a fishy smell. For langostino tails, ensure they are thawed properly if using frozen. Jumbo lump crabmeat should be fresh and free of shell pieces for maximum flavor.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftover Seafood Pot Pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes, allowing the biscuit topping to crisp up nicely while keeping the filling warm.
Can I freeze the Seafood Pot Pie?
Yes, you can freeze unbaked Seafood Pot Pie for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to enjoy, bake it directly from frozen, but be sure to add 10-15 extra minutes to the baking time.
What if my gravy is too thick or too thin?
Very! If your gravy is too thick, simply whisk in a little more chicken broth or cream until you reach your desired consistency. For a gravy that's too thin, continue simmering it over low heat while stirring to allow it to thicken naturally. A great tip is to ensure your roux (butter and flour mix) is well-blended to prevent lumps in the first place.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! If anyone in your family is gluten intolerant, you can easily use gluten-free Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free. Additionally, to adjust for dairy allergies, consider using non-dairy milk and olive oil instead of butter.
Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
Yes, definitely! You can prepare the seafood filling and gravy up to 24 hours in advance. Just store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake your Seafood Pot Pie, simply assemble and pop it into the oven, keeping it fresh and bursting with flavor for your meal.
Indulgent Seafood Pot Pie for Cozy Nights In
Equipment
- large skillet
- baking dish
- mixing bowl
Ingredients
Seafood
- 1 pound Shrimp Ensure shrimp is cooked just until opaque to avoid rubberiness.
- 1 pound Langostino Tails Thaw properly if using frozen.
- 1 cup Jumbo Lump Crabmeat Use fresh crab for the best flavor.
Vegetables
- 1 medium Onions Sauté until softened for optimal flavor.
- 1 cup Bell Pepper Cut into small pieces to blend well in the filling.
- 1 cup Celery Chop finely for even cooking.
Seasoning and Broth
- 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to taste.
- 1 teaspoon Pepper Freshly cracked pepper offers a superior flavor.
- 2 cups Chicken Broth Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
- 1 cup Heavy Cream Can substitute with half-and-half to lighten.
- 4 tablespoons Butter Be mindful of browning, use low heat when melting.
- ¼ cup Flour Whisk well to avoid lumps.
- 3 cloves Garlic Sauté lightly to release fragrance.
- 1 teaspoon Thyme Adjust amounts based on preference.
- 1 teaspoon Tarragon Adjust amounts based on preference.
- 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Adjust to taste for a bit of spice.
Biscuit Topping
- 1 cup Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix Check for gluten-free varieties if needed.
- ½ cup Milk Use cold milk for a flaky biscuit texture.
- 1 cup Mild Cheddar Cheese Be sure it's shredded for easy mixing.
- 1 packet Garlic Herb Seasoning Customize by using your choice of herbs.
Instructions
Cooking Steps
- In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and langostino tails, cooking until they turn opaque, about 2-3 minutes. Once cooked, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add a splash of oil and sauté chopped onions, bell peppers, and finely chopped celery for approximately 5 minutes until softened.
- Create a roux by melting butter in the skillet and whisking in flour. Gradually add chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring until thickened, about 5-7 minutes. Season with minced garlic, thyme, tarragon, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Gently fold in the seared seafood into the gravy. Let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, combine the Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix, cold milk, and shredded mild cheddar cheese until just mixed.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Pour the seafood filling into a greased baking dish and dollop spoonfuls of biscuit dough on top. Bake for 14-16 minutes until golden brown.
- Melt butter in a small pan, stir in garlic herb seasoning, and brush this over the warm biscuits before serving.
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