A Cozy Bite of the Coast: Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie

If you’re looking for a dish that wraps you in warmth and comfort, then A Cozy Bite of the Coast: Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie is just what you need. It’s a recipe that has been passed down through my family, one that always brings back fond memories of family gatherings and seaside adventures. This pot pie is not only delicious but also perfect for busy weeknights when you want to serve something special without spending all evening in the kitchen.

This seafood pot pie combines tender shrimp and crab meat with a creamy filling, all topped with cheesy, flaky biscuits that bake to golden perfection. It’s a meal that feels like a hug on a plate—ideal for cozy dinners with friends or family celebrations.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone will love the combination of seafood and cheesy biscuits, making it a hit at the dinner table.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the filling in advance and assemble it right before baking, saving time during dinner rush.
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of spices and fresh ingredients creates a mouthwatering experience that will leave your taste buds dancing.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients you might already have at home. Let’s gather everything we need to make this delightful pot pie!

For the Seafood Filling:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup crab meat (fresh or imitation)
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 1½ cups seafood or chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

For the Cheddar Bay Biscuit Topping:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ cup cold butter, cubed
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ¾ cup milk
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley (for garnish)

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using scallops or even white fish if shrimp isn’t available. Just adjust cooking times accordingly!
• Vegetarian option: Replace seafood with sautéed mushrooms and additional veggies for a hearty vegetarian pot pie.
• Spice it up: Add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for an extra kick if you love a bit of heat.
• Different cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese like gouda or pepper jack in your biscuit topping for unique flavors.

How to Make A Cozy Bite of the Coast: Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Seafood Filling

In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. This step is crucial as it creates the base for our filling. Add in the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant—about 3–4 minutes. Stir in the flour to create a roux; this helps thicken our sauce as it simmers.

Slowly pour in the broth while whisking to prevent lumps from forming. Once combined, add in the cream and let it simmer until slightly thickened. Incorporating Old Bay seasoning adds that signature coastal flavor along with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t forget to fold in those colorful frozen mixed vegetables—it adds both nutrition and vibrancy!

Next, gently add the shrimp and crab meat into your sauce. Cook until shrimp turn pink and opaque—this should take about 4–5 minutes. Be careful not to overcook them; we want them tender! Once done, remove from heat and transfer to a large baking dish or individual ramekins.

Step 2: Make the Cheddar Bay Biscuit Dough

In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, garlic powder, and salt. This mix will create our lovely biscuit topping! Next, add cold cubed butter into your dry ingredients using a pastry cutter or your fingers until it resembles coarse crumbs—a key step for flaky biscuits.

Now it’s time for cheese! Gently fold in shredded cheddar cheese before pouring in milk. Mix until just combined—overmixing can lead to tough biscuits. We want these light and fluffy!

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Drop spoonfuls of biscuit dough over your seafood filling in dollops, leaving space between them so they can expand while baking. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes or until those biscuits are golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges.

Once out of the oven, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top—trust me; it adds such freshness! Allow it to cool slightly before serving; I promise the enticing aroma will have everyone rushing to gather around your table. Enjoy every cozy bite!

Pro Tips for Making A Cozy Bite of the Coast: Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie

Cooking can be a delightful adventure, and these tips will help you create a pot pie that’s not only delicious but also memorable.

• Use fresh seafood: Fresh shrimp and crab meat provide the best flavor and texture. If you can get your hands on them, they will elevate your dish to coastal perfection.
• Don’t overmix the biscuit dough: Overmixing can result in tough biscuits. Aim for a shaggy texture, which ensures the biscuits remain fluffy and tender once baked.
• Customize the filling: Feel free to swap in other seafood like scallops or fish, or add more vegetables. This recipe is flexible and lets you use what you have on hand!
• Let it cool slightly before serving: Allowing the pot pie to rest for a few minutes after baking helps set the filling, making it easier to serve while still ensuring everything is hot and flavorful.
• Make it ahead of time: You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just assemble with the biscuit topping right before baking for a quick meal!

How to Serve A Cozy Bite of the Coast: Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie

When it comes to serving this delightful pot pie, presentation can make all the difference! Here are some ideas to make your dish shine at the dinner table.

Garnishes

• Chopped chives: A sprinkle of fresh chives adds a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the seafood beautifully.
• Lemon wedges: Serving lemon wedges on the side allows guests to brighten their portions with a squeeze of citrus, enhancing all those oceanic flavors.
• Extra cheddar cheese: For an indulgent touch, sprinkle some additional shredded cheddar cheese on top of the biscuit layer before baking for an extra cheesy finish.

Side Dishes

• Simple Green Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette balances out the richness of the pot pie perfectly.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic are an ideal side that brings comforting flavors without stealing attention from your main dish.
• Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled with olive oil adds a crunchy texture and vibrant color that beautifully contrasts with the creamy pot pie.
• Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins offer a delightful sweetness that pairs wonderfully with savory dishes like this pot pie—perfect for sopping up every last bit!

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie will surely impress family and friends alike. Enjoy every cozy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie is a fantastic option for meal prep! You can whip it up in advance, making busy weeknights a breeze. Plus, it tastes just as good (if not better) the next day, allowing those cozy flavors to meld beautifully.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pot pie to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, ensure the pot pie is completely cooled.
• Cover tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or use a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through—about 20–25 minutes.
• If using a microwave, heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warmed.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful dish!

Can I make A Cozy Bite of the Coast: Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the seafood filling and biscuit dough in advance. Just assemble and bake when you’re ready to serve.

What seafood can I substitute in A Cozy Bite of the Coast: Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie?

Feel free to substitute shrimp with scallops or even add white fish like cod or tilapia for variety. Just ensure everything is cooked properly before baking.

Is there a healthier version of A Cozy Bite of the Coast: Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie?

Yes! You can lighten it up by using low-fat cream or substituting half of the cream with vegetable broth. Opt for whole wheat flour for the biscuits too!

Can I use non-dairy alternatives in this recipe?

Certainly! Use non-dairy milk and coconut cream as substitutes to create a delicious vegan version while keeping that comforting flavor intact.

Final Thoughts

This Cheddar Bay Biscuit Seafood Pot Pie is more than just a recipe; it’s a warm hug from the coast that brings family together. I truly hope you enjoy making this dish as much as I enjoyed sharing it with you. Remember, cooking is all about love and joy—so gather your loved ones around the table and savor every bite together!