As the evening sun dipped below the horizon, I felt a yearning for something warm and comforting—something that would wrap me in a cozy embrace. That’s when I turned to my trusty repertoire of recipes and remembered this gem: the Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie. This dish combines the rich, creamy flavors of succulent shrimp, sweet langostino tails, and tender jumbo lump crab, all nestled beneath a golden, cheesy biscuit topping reminiscent of the beloved Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits.
Imagine the delightful aroma filling your kitchen as you whip this up, blending fresh ingredients into a glorious seafood filling. This pot pie isn’t just any comfort food; it’s a versatile masterpiece that easily wins over family and friends, making it perfect for any cozy night in. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to create a dish that brings warmth to both your taste buds and your heart!
Why is Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie a Must-Try?
Comforting warmth: This recipe envelops you in a cozy embrace with its rich filling and flaky biscuit topping, perfect for those chilly nights.
Easy preparation: With simple steps and easy-to-find ingredients, you’ll have this delightful dish ready in no time.
Crowd-pleaser appeal: Friends and family alike will be raving about the robust flavors of seafood combined with cheesy biscuits.
Versatile swaps: Customize your pot pie by substituting with different seafood or veggies to suit personal tastes.
Meal prep friendly: Make ahead for busy weeknights and reheat easily, ensuring you always have a comforting meal on hand.
For more ideas, check out my guide on making ahead to keep dinner stress-free!
Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie Ingredients
For the Seafood Filling
• Shrimp – Provides a primary seafood flavor; use peeled and deveined for convenience.
• Langostino Tails – Offers a sweet, delicate seafood taste; substitute with crab if needed.
• Jumbo Lump Crabmeat – Adds richness; ensure it’s cooked for safety.
• Onions – Adds savory depth; shallots can be used for a milder taste.
• Bell Pepper – Introduces sweetness and color; use your favorite color variety.
• Celery – Contributes freshness; can be omitted if you’re out.
• Salt and Pepper – Elevates overall flavor; adjust to your liking.
For the Creamy Gravy
• Olive Oil – Used for sautéing; feel free to substitute with butter for added flavor.
• Chicken Broth – Forms the creamy gravy base; vegetable broth works for a non-meat option.
• Heavy Cream – Provides richness to the gravy; half-and-half can be a lighter substitute.
• Butter – Enhances flavor and thickens the gravy.
• Flour – Thickens the gravy; gluten-free flour can be used if necessary.
• Garlic – Provides aromatic flavor; use fresh or minced garlic paste.
• Thyme – Adds earthiness; fresh thyme is a lovely alternative.
• Tarragon – Enhances the gravy with unique herbaceous notes; dill works if you need a substitute.
• Smoked Paprika – Gives a subtle smoky flavor; omit if a milder taste is preferred.
For the Cheddar Bay Biscuit Topping
• Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix – A convenient shortcut for delicious biscuit flavor; use an alternative if preferred.
• Milk – Needed for moistening biscuit dough; essential for a tender texture.
• Cheddar Cheese – Shredded to enhance flavor; pepper jack adds a spicy kick if desired.
• Melted Butter & Garlic Herb Seasoning – For brushing the biscuit topping after baking to elevate flavor.
This Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie is not only delicious but also super easy to whip up, making it a wonderful evening treat. Enjoy the cozy vibes and happy cooking!
How to Make Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie
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Sauté Seafood & Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the shrimp and langostino tails for 2-3 minutes until just cooked, then set aside. In the same skillet, add onions, bell peppers, and celery, cooking until onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
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Create Creamy Gravy: Melt butter in the skillet, then sprinkle in the flour. Cook for 1 minute before gradually whisking in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Season with garlic, thyme, tarragon, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika, stirring until smooth and thickened.
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Combine Filling: Gently fold the sautéed seafood into the creamy gravy mixture, making sure everything is well-coated. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
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Prepare Biscuit Dough: In a bowl, combine the Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix, milk, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix for a tender biscuit texture.
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Assemble Pot Pies: Divide the seafood filling among ramekins or a baking dish, then generously top each with the biscuit dough. Brush the tops with melted butter and sprinkle with garlic herb seasoning.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 425°F and bake for 14-16 minutes or until the biscuit topping is golden brown and fluffy.
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Serve and Enjoy: Remove from the oven and brush with additional garlic herb butter before serving hot. Allow to cool slightly to ensure a comfortable serving temperature.
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for an added burst of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the creamy seafood filling up to 3 days in advance, refrigerating it in an airtight container to maintain its delicious flavors. Simply sauté the seafood and vegetables, then combine them with the gravy as instructed. When you’re ready to serve, divide the filling into ramekins and prepare the biscuit dough as directed before popping them in the oven. For the best results, add the biscuit topping just before baking to ensure it remains light and flaky. This way, you’ll have a comforting weeknight meal ready with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie?
As the warmth from this delightful dish fills your home, pair it with sides that enhance its comforting flavors and heartwarming vibes.
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Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers balances the creamy pot pie, adding freshness and crunch.
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Steamed Asparagus: Tender, lightly steamed asparagus brings an elegant touch and a pop of color, complementing the rich seafood filling beautifully.
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Garlic Breadsticks: These buttery sticks add delightful texture and echo the garlic flavors in the pot pie, making each bite even more indulgent.
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Savory Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn with a hint of butter provides a sweet contrast to the savory pie, creating a delightful medley of flavors.
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Lemon Garlic Broccoli: The bright citrus notes cut through the richness of the pot pie, while the garlic adds a flavorful kick.
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Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc: A chilled glass of white wine pairs perfectly with seafood, enhancing the overall experience with its crisp, refreshing notes.
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Chocolate Lava Cake: For a sweet ending, this decadent dessert offers a rich contrast after the savory pot pie, leaving everyone satisfied and delighted.
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Apple Crisp: Warm, spiced apple crisp serves as a cozy dessert, with its cinnamon notes tying back to the comforting elements of your meal.
Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie Variations
Feel free to get creative with this comforting dish and make it your own!
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Scallop Swap: Substitute shrimp with scallops for a sweet and tender option that enhances seafood flavors.
Try searing the scallops just until golden for an added texture. -
Crab Delight: Replace shrimp with additional jumbo lump crab for an indulgently rich filling. This variation elevates the taste and texture while still keeping it lighter.
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Vegetable Boost: Toss in frozen peas or diced carrots to add a pop of color and sweetness. The extra vegetables will also increase the nutritional value of your pot pie.
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Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a delightful kick. This warming spice can elevate the comfort factor even further.
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Different Biscuit Mix: Swap out the Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix for a savory herb mix to introduce new flavors. You might discover a whole new favorite!
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Richness Upgrade: Use a blend of half-and-half and sour cream in the gravy for an extra creamy texture. This will make your pot pie truly luscious and decadent.
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Herb Infusion: Opt for fresh basil or chives instead of thyme and tarragon. The aromatic freshness adds a delightful twist to the traditional flavors.
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Dairy-Free Option: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free cheddar for an equally satisfying, creamy experience that accommodates dietary needs.
Expert Tips for Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie
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Fresh Seafood: Use freshly peeled shrimp and properly cooked crab for the best texture and flavor. Frozen seafood can work, but fresh is always better.
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Biscuit Blending: Mix the Cheddar Bay Biscuit dough until just combined. Overmixing leads to tough biscuits, which can overshadow the lovely seafood filling.
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Gravy Thickness: Ensure the gravy simmers before adding seafood; this prevents overcooking the delicate shrimp and langostino tails, guaranteeing a perfectly tender bite.
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Serving Temperature: Allow the pot pie to cool for a few minutes after baking; this helps the filling set a bit and avoids burns when enjoying your dish.
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Custom Substitutions: Don’t hesitate to swap out seafood or add extra veggies like peas or carrots to personalize the Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie to your family’s taste!
How to Store and Freeze Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the creamy texture and prevents the seafood from spoiling.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions of the pot pie for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil for optimal freshness.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes until warm throughout. This keeps the biscuit topping crispy and delicious while ensuring the filling is heated thoroughly.
- Make-Ahead Tips: You can prepare the seafood filling in advance and assemble the pot pie just before baking, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights!
Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie Recipe FAQs
What kind of seafood is best for the Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie?
For this delightful pot pie, I recommend using fresh shrimp, langostino tails, and jumbo lump crabmeat for the best flavor and texture. Shrimp should be peeled and deveined, while the crabmeat should be cooked. You can also substitute with scallops or other seafood based on your preferences!
How do I store leftovers of the Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie?
Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain its delicious creamy texture, ensure it’s sealed well to prevent moisture loss. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F for optimal results.
Can I freeze the Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie?
Yes! For longer storage, wrap portions of the pot pie tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, ensuring the biscuits stay nice and crisp while the filling warms through.
What should I do if the biscuit topping overbakes?
Don’t worry if this happens! If the biscuit topping starts to brown too much before the filling is heated through, you can cover the pot pie loosely with aluminum foil to prevent further browning while the insides cook. Always keep an eye on it to get that perfect golden top!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind when making this recipe?
Great question! If you have seafood allergies, be sure to substitute with safe options such as shredded chicken or a mix of vegetables like mushrooms and peas. Additionally, for gluten-free options, you can use gluten-free biscuit mixes and flour; just ensure all components, including broth, are labeled gluten-free.
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the seafood filling in advance and store it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before combining it with the biscuit dough. This is a fantastic way to save time on busy weekday evenings! Just give it a quick stir before assembling your pot pie.
Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie: Cozy Comfort Redefined
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Sauté the shrimp and langostino tails in olive oil for 2-3 minutes until just cooked, then set aside.
- In the same skillet, add onions, bell peppers, and celery, cooking until onions are translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Melt butter, sprinkle in flour, and cook for 1 minute before whisking in broth and cream.
- Season the gravy with garlic, thyme, tarragon, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika, stirring until thickened.
- Fold in the sautéed seafood until well-combined and set aside to cool slightly.
- Combine biscuit mix, milk, and cheese to form dough, mixing gently to avoid overmixing.
- Divide seafood filling into ramekins, top with biscuit dough, brush with melted butter, and sprinkle seasoning.
- Bake at 425°F for 14-16 minutes or until biscuit topping is golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving; brush with additional garlic herb butter if desired.