As I stood in the kitchen, the air thick with the tantalizing aroma of garlic and cream, I realized I had struck culinary gold. This Shrimp & Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Pot Pie is the ultimate comfort dish, wrapping the ocean’s bounty in a buttery, cheesy embrace. Not only does it deliver an upscale twist on classic pot pie, but this recipe is also surprisingly simple, turning any evening into a memorable dining experience. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply craving something indulgent on a cozy night, this rich seafood pot pie is here to please. Plus, it even offers a gluten-free option for those who need it! Are you ready to elevate your weeknight meals and dive into the sumptuous world of seafood comfort food?
Why is this pot pie a must-try?
Decadent flavors: The luxurious mix of shrimp and lobster in a creamy sauce ensures that every bite bursts with oceanic goodness.
Comfort food reinvented: This isn’t your average pot pie – the topping of cheddar bay biscuits adds a unique twist that delights the taste buds.
Easy and elegant: Simple enough for a weeknight, yet fancy enough for entertaining, making it versatile for any occasion.
Gluten-free option: With just a few substitutions, everyone can enjoy this dish, ensuring no one misses out on the comfort.
Perfectly filling: This pot pie is hearty enough to stand alone but pairs beautifully with a light salad or crusty bread, rounding out a complete meal effortlessly.
Shrimp & Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Ingredients
For the Filling
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness to the filling; use salted butter if necessary.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Provides aromatic flavor; substitute with garlic powder if fresh is unavailable.
- Onion (1 small, finely chopped) – Adds sweetness and depth; cannot be substituted directly.
- Celery (1 stalk, diced) – Contributes crunch and freshness; bell pepper can be used as a replacement.
- All-Purpose Flour (2 tablespoons for filling, 1 cup for biscuits) – Acts as a thickener for the filling and structure for the biscuits; gluten-free flour can be used as a substitute.
- Seafood Stock (1.5 cups) or Chicken Stock – Forms the creamy filling base; vegetable stock can create a lighter option.
- Heavy Cream (½ cup) – Adds a luxurious richness to the sauce; half-and-half can be used for a lighter option.
- Old Bay Seasoning (1 teaspoon) – Provides a classic seafood flavor; similar seafood seasoning blends can be considered.
- Salt (½ teaspoon) and Black Pepper (¼ teaspoon) – Enhance the overall flavor; adjust according to taste.
- Shrimp (½ pound, peeled and deveined) – The main seafood ingredient; can substitute more lobster or crab if desired.
- Cooked Lobster Meat (½ pound, chopped) – Adds a sweet, luxurious touch; feel free to replace with additional shrimp or crab.
- Fresh Parsley (1 tablespoon, chopped) – Offers freshness and color; other herbs like dill may be substituted.
For the Biscuit Topping
- Baking Powder (1 teaspoon) – Essential for helping biscuits rise; no substitutes recommended.
- Garlic Powder (½ teaspoon) – Enhances flavor in the biscuit topping; fresh minced garlic can be swapped in if preferred.
- Cold Butter (2 tablespoons, grated) – Creates flakiness in the biscuits; must be cold for the best results.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese (½ cup, shredded) – Provides a rich cheesy flavor; other cheese types can introduce new dimensions.
- Whole Milk (⅓ cup, plus 1 tablespoon as needed) – Moistens the biscuit dough; almond or soy milk can be used for a dairy-free version.
- Chives or Parsley (1 tablespoon, optional) – Adds an extra flavor kick to the biscuits; omit if not available.
This Shrimp & Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Pot Pie will surely elevate your dining experience and melt your heart with comfort!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Shrimp & Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Pot Pie
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C), allowing it to reach the perfect temperature while you prepare the filling. This ensures that the Shrimp & Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Pot Pie will bake evenly, resulting in a beautifully golden biscuity topping. A hot oven is key to achieving that irresistible, flaky crust!
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 finely chopped small onion, and 1 diced celery stalk, stirring frequently. Cook until the vegetables soften, about 5 minutes, becoming fragrant and translucent. This aromatic base is crucial for building the delicious layers of flavor in your pot pie.
Step 3: Create the Roux
Stir in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to your softened vegetables, cooking for about 1 minute. This forms a roux, which will thicken the creamy filling of your pot pie. As you stir, you’ll notice it clumping together, signaling that it’s ready for the next step in crafting the delectable seafood sauce.
Step 4: Add the Liquids
Slowly whisk in 1.5 cups of seafood stock and ½ cup of heavy cream, ensuring there are no lumps. Keep stirring as the mixture comes to a gentle simmer, thickening over about 5–7 minutes until it’s smooth and creamy. This base will create a luxurious filling that perfectly complements the shrimp and lobster.
Step 5: Season and Incorporate Seafood
Once thickened, enhance your creamy mixture with 1 teaspoon of Old Bay seasoning, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Add ½ pound of peeled and deveined shrimp, cooking for 2–3 minutes until they turn pink. Finally, gently fold in the ½ pound of chopped cooked lobster and 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley before removing from the heat.
Step 6: Prepare Biscuit Mixture
In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Mix these dry ingredients well, ensuring they are evenly distributed. These ingredients will form the fluffy and flavorful cheddar biscuits that crown your pot pie.
Step 7: Cut in Butter and Cheese
Add 2 tablespoons of grated cold butter to the flour mixture, cutting it in with a fork or pastry cutter until it resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in ½ cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. This addition not only enhances flavor but also gives the biscuits a delightful cheesy essence that pairs beautifully with the seafood filling.
Step 8: Form the Biscuit Dough
Pour in ⅓ cup of whole milk, mixing gently until just combined; the dough will be sticky. Avoid overmixing to keep your biscuits light and airy. This simple step ensures that the topping of your Shrimp & Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Pot Pie will turn out perfectly fluffy and golden.
Step 9: Assemble the Pot Pie
Carefully spoon the seafood mixture into ramekins or a baking dish, distributing it evenly. Next, drop spoonfuls of the biscuit dough over the top, gently spreading it to cover the filling without pressing down. This creates a lovely, rustic appearance for your pot pie, ensuring every bite is filled with creamy goodness.
Step 10: Bake to Perfection
Place your assembled pot pie in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the biscuit topping is golden brown and cooked through. Keep an eye on it, as the aroma of the seafood and cheesy biscuits will fill your kitchen, signaling that deliciousness is on the way.
Step 11: Cool Before Serving
Once baked, remove the pot pie from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This cooling period allows the filling to set slightly, making it easier to serve. Plating this gorgeous Shrimp & Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Pot Pie is a delightful end to your culinary journey!
Expert Tips for Shrimp & Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Pot Pie
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Thawing Seafood: Ensure that shrimp and lobster are fully thawed and patted dry to prevent excess moisture, which can compromise the filling’s richness.
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Choose the Right Dish: Use a 9-inch pie dish or an 8×8-inch baking dish for larger portions, making sure to adjust the baking time slightly for uniform cooking.
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Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake the pot pie when you’re ready for a quick dinner.
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Freezing for Later: This Shrimp & Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Pot Pie can be frozen before or after baking, making it perfect for meal prep enthusiasts.
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Ingredient Swaps: Want to customize? Substitute lobster with additional shrimp or crab for a different flavor while still achieving that delicious pot pie experience.
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Perfect Biscuit Texture: Keep cold butter for the biscuit topping to ensure a flaky and light texture; warm butter can lead to dense biscuits.
Shrimp & Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Variations
Dive into creativity and personalize your Shrimp & Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Pot Pie for a dish that reflects your unique taste!
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Seafood Swap: Replace lobster with crab or more shrimp for a different flavor profile. Mix and match your favorite seafood for a delightful twist!
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour in place of all-purpose flour to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Everyone can share in the enjoyment without missing out!
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs such as dill, thyme, or tarragon to elevate the filling’s warmth and complexity. Each herb brings a unique twist, making every bite an adventure.
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Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative for a lighter, vegan-friendly version that doesn’t skimp on taste.
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Cheesy Variation: Swap in different cheeses, like gouda or pepper jack, for the biscuit topping to create new flavor dimensions. Feel the differences as each cheese sings its own tune of deliciousness!
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Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a bit of hot sauce to the filling for a subtle kick that balances beautifully against the creamy sauce.
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More Veggies: Incorporate diced bell peppers, peas, or spinach into the filling to introduce a burst of color and nutrients into your pot pie. It’s a delicious way to boost your veggie intake!
Feel inspired? You might also want to check out these delightful dishes for more seafood goodness: Bang Bang Shrimp for a spicy bite or Buttered Lobster Pasta for an elegant touch!
How to Store and Freeze Shrimp & Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the biscuit’s flakiness and filling’s creaminess.
Freezer: Seal in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. This ensures your Shrimp & Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Pot Pie remains deliciously inviting.
Make Ahead: Prepare the filling and biscuits separately, then assemble and bake when ready, or freeze in stages to save time later.
Make Ahead Options
These Shrimp & Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Pot Pies are perfect for meal prep and can save you valuable time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the creamy seafood filling up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container. To maintain the quality, ensure the seafood is fresh and pat it dry if using frozen. For the biscuit topping, you can mix the dry ingredients and keep them stored separately. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the filling until warmed through, drop the biscuit mixture on top, and bake as directed. This approach provides you with an effortlessly indulgent meal, ready at a moment’s notice!
What to Serve With Shrimp & Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Pot Pie
Indulging in the creamy, buttery goodness of this luxurious pot pie is just the start of an unforgettable meal.
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Garlic Butter Bread: Perfect for soaking up the rich filling, this warm, crusty bread adds a delightful crunch that complements the silky texture.
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Light Caesar Salad: A crisp salad with romaine, parmesan, and a tangy dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the rich seafood pie. The crunch of the croutons rounds out the experience.
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Roasted Asparagus: With its tender yet firm texture and vibrant color, roasted asparagus adds a nutritious and earthy touch that balances the dish beautifully.
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Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy coleslaw, either creamy or vinegar-based, provides a delightful contrast to the tender pot pie filling and adds a refreshing bite.
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Chardonnay: Pairing this dish with a glass of chilled Chardonnay enhances flavors and adds a layer of sophistication, making every sip an experience in itself.
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Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts bring nutty flavors and an extra crunch that pairs well with the softness of the pot pie, creating a delightful texture contrast.
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Mini Key Lime Tarts: Light and zesty key lime tarts serve as a perfect sweet ending to your meal, cleansing the palate after the rich and creamy pot pie.
Each side not only enhances the overall dining experience but also celebrates the lush flavors of your Shrimp & Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Pot Pie.
Shrimp & Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Pot Pie Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best seafood for this pot pie?
When selecting shrimp and lobster, look for fresh, firm seafood. The shrimp should smell mildly of the sea, and avoid any that have dark spots or a fishy odor. If using frozen seafood, ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry to remove any excess moisture before cooking. This small step enhances the dish’s texture and flavor, making your Shrimp & Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Pot Pie even more delightful!
How should I store leftovers of my Shrimp & Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Pot Pie?
To store your pot pie, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, ensuring that the biscuits regain their flakiness and the filling warms evenly. I always find that reheating it this way keeps it tasting just as good as when it was freshly baked!
Can I freeze the Shrimp & Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Pot Pie?
Absolutely! You can freeze your pot pie either before or after baking. To freeze it before baking, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. It can stay good in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed. If you’ve already baked it, just make sure to cool it completely before freezing, and follow the same thawing instructions for optimal results.
What if I encounter a watery filling in my pot pie?
If you notice that the filling turns out watery, it may be due to excess moisture from the seafood or not cooking the roux long enough. To troubleshoot, ensure you’re using high-quality, dry seafood, and when making the roux, cook it for at least 1 minute before adding the liquids. If you still find the filling runny after baking, a quick fix is to sprinkle in a little more flour during cooking, stirring until it thickens.
Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, this Shrimp & Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Pot Pie can easily cater to gluten-free diets! Simply swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring it works well for both the filling and the biscuit topping. Many gluten-free options available in stores today do an excellent job replicating the texture of traditional flour, so everyone can indulge in this comfort food delight without worry.
Can I use different seafood in this recipe?
The great thing about this pot pie is its versatility! Feel free to replace the lobster with additional shrimp or even crab – all three seafood types work beautifully in this creamy filling. If you’re a fan of scallops or other shellfish, they can be fantastic options as well, bringing their own unique flavors to the dish. The more the merrier, right?
Shrimp & Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Comfort in Every Bite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure even baking.
- In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 finely chopped small onion, and 1 diced celery stalk, stirring frequently for about 5 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
- Stir in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux.
- Slowly whisk in 1.5 cups of seafood stock and ½ cup of heavy cream. Stir until the mixture simmers and thickens over 5–7 minutes.
- Add 1 teaspoon of Old Bay seasoning, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper to the mixture. Add ½ pound of shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes until they turn pink. Fold in ½ pound of chopped cooked lobster and 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley.
- In a bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt.
- Cut in 2 tablespoons of grated cold butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in ½ cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese.
- Pour in ⅓ cup of whole milk and gently mix until just combined, careful not to overmix.
- Spoon the seafood mixture into ramekins or a baking dish. Drop spoonfuls of the biscuit dough over the top.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes until the biscuit topping is golden brown.
- Let the pot pie rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
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