Name: Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Shrimp (fresh or frozen, thawed); 1 cup Crab (fresh or canned); 1 cup Lobster (optional); 3 cloves Garlic (minced); 1 cup Cream (or dairy-free option); Herbs (to taste); 1 package Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix; 1/3 cup Butter (melted); 2/3 cup Milk (or dairy-free option); 1 tablespoon Garlic Herb Butter (for drizzling)

The delightful aroma of the ocean wafts through my kitchen as I prepare to embark on a culinary journey with my Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie. This comforting dish is a captivating twist on the beloved Cheddar Bay Biscuits, with a luxurious filling that features tender shrimp and sweet crab swimming in a creamy gravy beneath a golden, cheesy biscuit crust. What I adore about this recipe is not just its rich flavors, but also its incredible ease of preparation—perfect for when I want to impress guests or indulge in a cozy night in. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be a crowd-pleaser without the fuss of complicated cooking. Are you ready to dive into this seafood delight?

Why is This Pot Pie So Special?

Comfort food at its finest: This Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie wraps you in a warm hug with its dreamy, creamy filling and flaky crust. Quick to prepare: Using a store-bought biscuit mix saves precious time, making this dish perfect for weeknight dinners or spontaneous gatherings. Seafood lovers rejoice: With succulent shrimp and sweet crab, every bite is a taste of the ocean. Versatile options: Not a seafood fan? Substitute with chicken or vegetables for a delightful twist. A showstopper: Its stunning presentation will leave your guests in awe, ensuring it becomes a favorite at any gathering. Enjoy it with a light side salad or pair it with Pecan Cream Pie to create a scrumptious meal you’ll cherish!

Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie Ingredients

Uncover the secrets to this comforting dish!

For the Seafood Filling
• Shrimp – A primary protein that gives the pot pie its rich seafood flavor; choose fresh or frozen (thawed).
• Crab – Adds a touch of sweetness; both fresh or canned work wonderfully for convenience.
• Lobster – Optional but enhances the dish’s sophistication; feel free to replace it with more shrimp or crab if needed.

For the Gravy Base
• Garlic – Infuses wonderful aroma and flavor; use fresh cloves for the best taste.
• Cream – Creates a luxurious and creamy texture in the gravy; substitute with a dairy-free option if preferred.
• Herbs – Enhance the richness of the gravy; adjust to your liking, like using thyme instead of rosemary.

For the Biscuit Topping
• Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix – The star of this dish, ensuring quick and flaky biscuit preparation; avoid substitutions for the best results.
• Butter – Essential for richness; margarine can be a viable alternative.
• Milk – Contributes to the biscuit dough; swap with almond or soy milk for a dairy-free version.

Optional Topping
• Garlic Herb Butter – Drizzle it on top for an extra layer of flavor; can be homemade or store-bought.

Each ingredient in your Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie plays an important role in creating that signature comfort food experience!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to the temperature indicated on the Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix package, typically around 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the oven is hot enough to bake the biscuits to a flaky, golden-brown perfection. While the oven heats up, gather your ingredients and equipment, including a large skillet and a baking dish.

Step 2: Prepare the Biscuit Dough
Follow the instructions on the Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix to prepare the biscuit dough. Combine the mix with the recommended amount of melted butter and milk, stirring gently until just mixed. Be careful not to overmix, as this will keep your biscuits light and airy. Set the dough aside while you prepare the seafood filling.

Step 3: Sauté the Seafood
In your large skillet, melt a tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add freshly minced garlic and your choice of herbs, sautéing for about 2 minutes until fragrant. Next, gently add in the shrimp and crab, cooking for about 3-4 minutes, or until the shrimp turns pink and opaque. If using lobster, include it now, cooking until just heated through.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Gravy
Pour in the heavy cream over the cooked seafood mixture and stir in your selected seasonings, allowing the ingredients to meld. Continue to cook this mixture for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently until it thickens slightly and becomes creamy. You want a luscious consistency to complement the Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie.

Step 5: Assemble the Pot Pie
Transfer the creamy seafood filling into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. On top, dollop the prepared biscuit dough, using a spoon to create an inviting rustic look that allows the filling to peek through. This delicious assembly will bake beautifully and ensure a delightful contrast of textures in the final product.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the assembled Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the biscuits are puffed up and golden brown. Keep an eye on them towards the end; you want that enticing golden hue. The filling should be bubbling slightly around the edges, giving you the perfect visual cue that it’s ready.

Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the pot pie from the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes. This short cooling period helps the filling set slightly for easier serving. Once cooled, serve your Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie warm, and enjoy each bite of this comforting delight!

Storage Tips for Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps retain the flavors and prevents drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the assembled pot pie before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Bake frozen Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie directly from the freezer. Cover with foil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 30-35 minutes, then remove the foil for an additional 10-15 minutes until heated through and golden brown.
Make-Ahead: Prepare the filling and biscuit topping in advance, storing them separately in the fridge. Combine them and bake when ready for optimal freshness and flavor.

Expert Tips for Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie

• Don’t Overmix: To keep your biscuit topping light and fluffy, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense biscuits.

• Use Thawed Seafood: If using frozen shrimp or crab, thaw and drain them thoroughly. This helps avoid a watery filling, enhancing the flavors.

• Adjust the Gravy: Taste your creamy gravy and adjust the herbs according to your preferences. A little extra garlic or thyme can make a big difference!

• Add Cheese: For even more flavor, sprinkle some shredded cheese over the biscuit topping before baking. It will melt beautifully and enhance the dish.

• Let it Rest: Allow the Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie to cool for about 5-10 minutes after baking. This helps the filling set, making it easier to serve.

• Storage Suggestions: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain the biscuit’s texture.

Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie Variations

Feel free to tweak this recipe and make it your own—every one of these variations brings a new twist!

Chicken Twist: Swap out shrimp and crab for cooked chicken for a heartwarming, non-seafood delight.
Vegetarian Option: Replace all seafood with a mix of seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers for a fresh, veggie-packed pot pie.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the seafood mixture for a fiery touch that amplifies flavor.
Cheesy Delight: Layer in some shredded cheese with the seafood filling to create a rich, gooey texture that cheese lovers will adore.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herb combinations—consider dill or parsley instead of traditional seafood herbs for a refreshing flavor shift.
Dairy-Free Alternative: Use plant-based butter and almond milk in the biscuit mix to create a delicious dairy-free version that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
Lobster Lovers: For a truly luxurious treat, blend in some lobster with the shrimp and crab to elevate the seafood experience.
Sweet Corn Addition: Stir in some sweet corn to the seafood filling for a pop of sweetness and an extra layer of texture.

With these delicious adaptations, you can explore myriad flavors while still enjoying the comforting embrace of your Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie! If you seek more inspiration, consider pairing it with side dishes like a light salad or a rich Pecan Cream Pie for dessert. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

What to Serve with Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie

The rich flavors and comforting textures of this pot pie make it a centerpiece for a delightful meal.

Light Side Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens drizzled in a zesty vinaigrette complements the creamy filling, refreshing the palate.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers offer a smoky sweetness and beautiful color, enhancing the dish’s appeal.
Garlic Breadsticks: Fluffy breadsticks slathered in garlic butter pair perfectly, providing a delightful contrast and making it easy to scoop up that creamy goodness.
Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy coleslaw balances the richness of the pot pie, adding a joyful crunch and brightness to each bite.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes create a hearty side that echoes the comforts of home, perfect for those cozy nights.
Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay, with its bright acidity and fruity notes, can enhance the seafood flavors, making for a perfect pairing.
Apple Crisp: End your meal on a sweet note with a warm apple crisp, its sweetness harmonizing beautifully with the savory richness of the pot pie.

Make Ahead Options

These Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pies are a fantastic option for meal prep, saving you both time and stress on busy weeknights! You can prepare the creamy seafood filling and biscuit dough separately up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cook the seafood mixture, let it cool, then refrigerate it in an airtight container. For the biscuit dough, prepare it according to the package instructions and store it in the fridge as well. When you’re ready to enjoy, just assemble the pot pie by combining the filling and topping it with the chilled biscuit dough, then bake until golden brown. This ensures that your dish is just as delicious, fresh, and comforting when it’s time to serve!

Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie Recipe FAQs

What type of seafood should I use for this pot pie?
Absolutely! For this Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie, I recommend using a combination of shrimp and crab for a delightful balance of flavors. You can use fresh or frozen shrimp; just make sure to thaw it beforehand. For the crab, both fresh or canned varieties work beautifully, and if you’re feeling a bit fancy, you can add lobster for an upscale touch!

How should I store leftovers from the pot pie?
Very! You can store any leftover Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh and helps preserve flavors. If you’re planning to keep it longer, consider freezing it for later enjoyment.

Can I freeze the pot pie? If so, how?
Yes, you can! To freeze the assembled Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie before baking, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, bake directly from the freezer by covering it with foil for the first 30-35 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until it’s golden and heated through.

What should I do if my biscuit topping turns out dense?
If you find your biscuit topping is dense, it might be due to overmixing the dough. Remember, mixing just until combined is key to keeping the biscuits light and fluffy. Next time, gently fold the ingredients rather than stirring vigorously. And don’t forget to check that your baking soda or powder isn’t expired, as this will affect the rising!

Is this pot pie a suitable dish for people with seafood allergies?
It’s important to note that this Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie is not safe for individuals with seafood allergies. However, you can easily substitute the seafood with cooked chicken or hearty vegetables for a delicious non-seafood version that everyone can enjoy. Adjust the herbs for customization to match the flavors of chicken or vegetables.

How long does it take to prepare the pot pie?
On average, preparing the Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie will take about 30-40 minutes, including the time to assemble and bake. However, if you’re making the filling and biscuit dough separately in advance, the actual baking time remains the same at around 20-25 minutes, which is quick for such a flavorful dish!