There’s something truly special about combining the coastal charm of seafood with the heartwarming feeling of a pot pie. When I first whipped up my Shrimp & Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Pot Pie, I knew I had struck culinary gold. Imagine pulling apart the golden, flaky cheese biscuits to reveal a rich and creamy seafood filling that’s bursting with flavor! This dish is perfect for cozy nights spent at home or special gatherings where you want to impress guests without anxiety in the kitchen.
As the aroma fills your home, you’ll find it hard to believe this elegant delight is also surprisingly easy to make. With mouth-watering shrimp and luscious lobster, paired with that beloved cheddar biscuit topping, this recipe transforms a typical weeknight into a luxurious experience. Let’s dive into making this seafood comfort food that’s sure to become a favorite in your household!
Why is Shrimp & Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Pot Pie special?
Delicious Fusion: The shrimp and lobster combination creates a seafood lover’s dream, marrying coastal flavors with comfort food.
Easy Preparation: This recipe is straightforward for cooks of all skill levels, taking the stress out of meal prep.
Impressive Presentation: Flaky, golden biscuits atop a creamy filling make it perfect for entertaining guests.
Customizable Options: With easy adjustments and gluten-free alternatives, this pot pie caters to everyone’s preferences.
Ultimate Comfort: Each bite offers an indulgent harmony of textures, promising warmth and satisfaction that feels like a cozy hug.
Serve it alongside a simple side salad for a complete and fulfilling meal!
Shrimp & Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Pot Pie Ingredients
For the Filling
- Unsalted Butter – adds richness to the filling; use salted if unsalted isn’t available.
- Garlic (minced) – introduces aromatic flavor; fresh is preferable over powdered for best taste.
- Onion (finely chopped) – provides a sweet base flavor; yellow or white onions work best.
- Celery (diced) – adds crunch and flavor complexity; can be omitted if unavailable.
- All-Purpose Flour – thickens the filling; substitute with a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free option.
- Seafood Stock (or Chicken Stock) – forms the base of the filling; homemade stock enhances flavor greatly.
- Heavy Cream – ensures a luxurious texture; substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
- Old Bay Seasoning – adds a classic seafood flavor; replace with a mix of herbs if needed.
- Salt & Black Pepper – enhances overall flavor; adjust to your taste preferences.
- Shrimp (peeled and deveined) – provides the primary protein; fresh or thawed frozen shrimp work well.
- Lobster Meat (cooked and chopped) – adds a touch of luxury; you can substitute with crab if desired.
- Fresh Parsley (chopped) – brightens flavor; fresh chives can be a nice alternative.
For the Biscuit Topping
- All-Purpose Flour – the base for the biscuit structure; a gluten-free blend can be used instead.
- Baking Powder – ensures the biscuits rise properly; check for freshness for best results.
- Garlic Powder – enhances garlic flavor in biscuits; optional based on personal preference.
- Salt – balances the flavor of the biscuits; essential for taste!
- Cold Butter (grated) – creates a flaky texture; ensure the butter is cold, not melted.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese (shredded) – adds richness and flavor; feel free to use mild cheddar if preferred.
- Whole Milk – binds the biscuit dough; substituting with non-dairy options may alter texture slightly.
- Chopped Fresh Chives or Parsley (optional) – adds freshness and color; feel free to omit if not available.
This Shrimp & Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Pot Pie is a culinary delight you won’t want to miss!
How to Make Shrimp & Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Pot Pie
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Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is essential to ensure your pot pie bakes evenly and the biscuits rise perfectly.
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Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat, then add minced garlic, finely chopped onion, and diced celery; cook until soft—about 5 minutes. You’ll want those fragrant aromas filling your kitchen!
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Stir in all-purpose flour to form a roux, cooking for 1 minute. This step will create a lovely, thick base for your creamy filling.
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Gradually whisk in seafood stock and heavy cream; stir until smooth and slightly thickened, about 5-7 minutes. Take your time to ensure it’s beautifully creamy!
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Season with Old Bay, salt, and black pepper; stir in shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes. Add your lobster and chopped parsley at the end, then remove from heat.
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For the biscuit topping: whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, garlic powder, and salt. Cut in cold grated butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, and then stir in shredded cheese and optional herbs.
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Add whole milk, mixing until just combined—be careful, the dough will be sticky. This ensures that your biscuits will be soft and fluffy!
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Spoon the seafood mixture into ramekins or a baking dish. Drop biscuit dough on top, spreading it gently to cover the filling.
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Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the biscuits are golden brown on top. The delightful smell will have everyone eagerly waiting!
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Let cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. This step helps the filling set up a bit more, making it easier to serve.
Optional: Garnish with additional fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Shrimp & Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Pot Pie?
Pair your pot pie with these delightful sides to elevate your meal and create a cozy dining experience.
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Simple Side Salad: A refreshing mix of greens with a light vinaigrette balances the rich flavors of the pot pie, adding a crisp texture.
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Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus with a sprinkle of lemon complements the seafood beautifully, bringing a touch of brightness to the plate.
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Garlic Roasted Potatoes: Crispy on the outside and fluffy within, these seasoned potatoes provide a hearty contrast to the creamy filling.
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Sautéed Spinach: Quick-cooked spinach adds softness and a pop of green, enhancing the dish’s visual appeal and nutritional value.
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Creamy Coleslaw: This tangy slaw offers a delightful crunch that cuts through the richness of the pot pie, making each bite enjoyable.
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Chardonnay: A chilled glass of white wine, especially a buttery Chardonnay, beautifully pairs with the seafood, enriching your dining experience.
Filling your table with these complementary sides will surely create a memorable meal that friends and family will love!
Expert Tips for Shrimp & Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Pot Pie
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp and lobster yield the best flavor. Frozen seafood is convenient, but always thaw and pat dry to minimize excess moisture.
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Perfect Biscuit Texture: Ensure your butter is cold when making the biscuit topping. This helps achieve that flaky texture we all love in the biscuits.
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Adjust Cooking Time: Keep an eye on your pot pie’s baking time. If using a larger dish, you may need to extend the baking time by 5-10 minutes for even cooking.
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Seasoning Balance: Don’t be shy with seasoning! Taste your filling before baking and adjust the salt and Old Bay as needed to enhance the flavors of this Shrimp & Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Pot Pie.
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Meal Prep Friendly: Prepare the filling in advance to save time. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 1 day or frozen for later use; just remember to reheat gently before topping with biscuits.
Shrimp & Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Pot Pie Variations
Feel free to make this dish your own with these delightful twists and substitutions!
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Crab Substitute: Swap lobster with lump crab meat for a different yet equally luxurious seafood experience.
This option maintains the rich flavors while giving a unique twist to the classic recipe. -
Vegetarian Option: Replace shrimp and lobster with sautéed mushrooms and zucchini for a savory, plant-based delight.
This guarantees you still relish those comforting textures without meat! -
Gluten-Free Flour: Use a gluten-free baking blend for both the filling and biscuit topping to accommodate dietary needs.
This way, everyone at the table can enjoy the pot pie without concern. -
Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce to the filling for a bold, spicy flavor infusion.
A bit of heat can elevate the dish beautifully! -
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses in the biscuit topping, like pepper jack for a zesty flair or gouda for a smoky touch.
Each cheese offers a flavorful depth that makes every bite exciting. -
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh dill or tarragon to the filling for a fresh, herbal note that complements the seafood beautifully.
It transforms the dish into a light summer favorite! -
Coconut Cream: For a dairy-free version, swap heavy cream with coconut cream, adding a subtle sweetness that pairs well with seafood.
You’ll still enjoy that luscious, creamy texture with a delightful twist. -
Biscuit Topping Twists: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives to the biscuit batter for a Mediterranean twist on the classic topping.
These additions introduce a wonderful complexity to the flavor profile!
Make Ahead Options
These Shrimp & Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Pot Pies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking for a luxurious dish with minimal effort! You can prepare the creamy seafood filling ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply store it in an airtight container. If you want to prep even further, the filling can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just be sure to let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using. When you’re ready to serve, spoon the filling into ramekins, drop on your biscuit dough, and bake them fresh for a delightful, restaurant-quality meal with ease!
Storage Tips for Shrimp & Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Pot Pie
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to maintain the biscuit texture.
Freezer: The filling can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Biscut topping can also be made in advance and frozen.
Reheating: For optimal results, reheat the pot pie in the oven rather than the microwave to keep biscuits crisp. Bake until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
Make-Ahead: You can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 1 day before adding the biscuits and baking. Enjoy your delicious Shrimp & Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Pot Pie fresh!
Shrimp & Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Pot Pie Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing shrimp, look for ones that are firm and translucent, with a fresh ocean smell—not a fishy odor. If you see dark spots, it could indicate spoilage. Fresh or previously frozen shrimp is great; just ensure they are peeled and deveined!
Can I store leftover pot pie in the fridge, and how long will it last?
Very! Store your Shrimp & Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Pot Pie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to reheat it in the oven to preserve that delightful biscuit crispiness—around 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes works wonders.
What is the best way to freeze the filling for later use?
Certainly! To freeze the filling, allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Make sure to label it with the date for reference. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to use it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then reheat gently before adding your biscuit topping and baking.
What should I do if the biscuits don’t rise?
No worries! If your biscuits don’t rise, it might be due to expired baking powder. Always check the date on the package prior to use. Another common issue can be over-mixing the dough; mix until just combined to maintain that fluffy texture. Finally, ensure your butter is cold to create those signature flaky layers.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Absolutely! If you or your guests have allergies, keep in mind this recipe contains shellfish (shrimp and lobster). For gluten-free options, be sure to replace all-purpose flour with a quality gluten-free blend in both the filling and biscuit topping. Also, using coconut cream can make it dairy-free while still ensuring a rich texture.
How can I make this recipe ahead of time?
I often make the filling a day ahead! Prepare the seafood filling and store it in the fridge for up to 1 day. When ready to bake, spoon the filling into your baking dish, top it with biscuit dough, and bake as directed. This method saves time on busy nights while still delivering that fresh-baked taste.
Savory Shrimp & Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Pot Pie Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat, then add minced garlic, finely chopped onion, and diced celery; cook until soft—about 5 minutes.
- Stir in all-purpose flour to form a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in seafood stock and heavy cream; stir until smooth and slightly thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season with Old Bay, salt, and black pepper; stir in shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add your lobster and chopped parsley at the end, then remove from heat.
- For the biscuit topping: whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, garlic powder, and salt.
- Cut in cold grated butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, and then stir in shredded cheese and optional herbs.
- Add whole milk, mixing until just combined.
- Spoon the seafood mixture into ramekins or a baking dish.
- Drop biscuit dough on top, spreading it gently to cover the filling.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the biscuits are golden brown on top.
- Let cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.