If you love classic comfort food but want something a little more special, Seafood Pot Pie with Cheddar Bay Biscuit Topping is the perfect dish. Rich, creamy seafood filling meets fluffy, cheesy, garlicky biscuits baked golden on top—creating a hearty meal that feels both indulgent and elegant.
This recipe combines the cozy appeal of a traditional pot pie with the bold flavor of seafood and the irresistible taste of Cheddar Bay–style biscuits. It’s ideal for family dinners, special occasions, or whenever you’re craving comfort with a gourmet edge.
What Is Seafood Pot Pie with Cheddar Bay Biscuit Topping?
Seafood Pot Pie with Cheddar Bay Biscuit Topping is a creamy seafood casserole-style dish topped with drop biscuits inspired by the famous Cheddar Bay biscuits. Instead of a traditional pastry crust, the biscuit topping adds a savory, buttery layer that bakes up soft inside and golden on top.
The filling typically includes:
- Shrimp
- Fish (such as cod or haddock)
- Scallops or crab (optional)
- Vegetables in a creamy sauce
The result is rich, satisfying, and deeply comforting.
Why This Seafood Pot Pie Is So Popular
This dish has gained popularity because it reinvents a classic in a way that feels both familiar and exciting.
Reasons People Love It
- Creamy, comforting filling
- Seafood feels special yet approachable
- Biscuit topping is easier than pie crust
- Bold cheddar and garlic flavor
- Perfect for cold weather meals
It’s comfort food that doesn’t feel boring.
Flavor Profile and Texture
Every bite of this dish delivers contrast and balance.
- Creamy, savory seafood filling
- Tender seafood pieces
- Soft vegetables for body
- Fluffy biscuits with cheesy, garlicky flavor
- Golden, slightly crisp topping
The biscuit topping soaks up just enough sauce while staying light and fluffy.
The Seafood: What Works Best
One of the best parts of this recipe is its flexibility.
Common Seafood Choices
- Shrimp – sweet and tender
- White fish – flaky and mild
- Scallops – rich and buttery
- Crab meat – luxurious and sweet
Using a mix of seafood creates depth of flavor and texture.
Why Cheddar Bay Biscuit Topping Works So Well
Replacing traditional pie crust with Cheddar Bay–style biscuits transforms the dish.
Benefits of Biscuit Topping
- Easier than rolling pastry
- Adds bold cheddar flavor
- Garlic and herbs enhance seafood
- Light and fluffy texture
- Absorbs sauce beautifully
The biscuits turn this into a standout comfort meal.
Key Ingredients Explained
Understanding the components ensures a perfect result.
Seafood
Fresh or frozen (thawed) seafood works well. Avoid overcooking before baking.
Vegetables
Common choices include:
- Onion
- Celery
- Carrots
- Peas
They add sweetness, texture, and balance.
Butter and Flour
Form the roux that thickens the sauce.
Milk or Cream
Creates a rich, velvety base for the filling.
Cheddar Cheese
Sharp cheddar gives the biscuits their signature flavor.
Garlic and Herbs
Garlic, parsley, and sometimes chives add depth and aroma.
How the Creamy Filling Comes Together
The filling is similar to a classic pot pie base.
- Butter is melted and vegetables are softened
- Flour is added to form a roux
- Milk or cream is whisked in
- Seasonings and seafood are added
The sauce should be thick enough to hold the biscuits without becoming dry.
Step-by-Step Overview of How It’s Made
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Cook vegetables, make the creamy sauce, and gently fold in seafood.
Step 2: Transfer to Baking Dish
Spread filling evenly in a casserole or pie dish.
Step 3: Make the Biscuit Dough
Mix biscuit ingredients just until combined.
Step 4: Add Biscuit Topping
Drop spoonfuls of dough over the filling.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Bake until biscuits are cooked through and golden brown.
Step 6: Finish with Garlic Butter
Brush baked biscuits with melted garlic butter for extra flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overcooking Seafood
Seafood continues cooking in the oven—keep it slightly underdone.
Too Thin Filling
The sauce should be thick before baking.
Overmixing Biscuit Dough
Leads to dense biscuits. Mix gently.
Uneven Biscuit Placement
Leave space between biscuits for even baking.
Tips for Perfect Seafood Pot Pie
- Use similar-sized seafood pieces
- Season filling generously
- Taste sauce before assembling
- Bake uncovered for golden biscuits
- Let rest before serving
These details make a noticeable difference.
Popular Variations
Lobster Pot Pie
Replace shrimp or fish with lobster for a luxury version.
Cajun Seafood Pot Pie
Add Cajun seasoning for a spicy twist.
Creamy Salmon Pot Pie
Use salmon as the main protein.
Vegetable Seafood Pot Pie
Increase vegetables for a lighter balance.
Individual Pot Pies
Bake in ramekins for elegant presentation.
Is Seafood Pot Pie Healthy?
While indulgent, it can be balanced.
Nutritional Benefits
- High protein from seafood
- Omega-3 fatty acids
- Calcium from cheese
- Filling and satisfying portions
For a lighter version, reduce cream and increase vegetables.
How to Store and Reheat
Refrigeration
- Store covered in the fridge
- Keeps for 2–3 days
Reheating
- Reheat in oven for best texture
- Cover loosely to avoid drying biscuits
Freezing
Best frozen before baking; bake fresh for best biscuit texture.
Best Side Dishes to Serve With It
- Simple green salad
- Steamed green beans
- Roasted asparagus
- Lemony slaw
Light sides balance the richness of the dish.
Perfect Occasions for This Dish
- Family dinners
- Holiday meals
- Special weekend cooking
- Cozy winter nights
- Dinner guests
It feels special without being overly complicated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen seafood?
Yes, thaw and drain well first.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes, assemble filling ahead and add biscuits before baking.
Can I use store-bought biscuit mix?
Yes, though homemade offers best flavor.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes, especially with mild seasoning.
Why This Recipe Is a Comfort Food Favorite
Seafood Pot Pie with Cheddar Bay Biscuit Topping combines familiar comfort with elevated flavor. The creamy filling soothes, the seafood satisfies, and the biscuit topping steals the show. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug—rich, filling, and unforgettable.
Final Thoughts
Seafood Pot Pie with Cheddar Bay Biscuit Topping is comfort food at its finest. Creamy, savory, and topped with fluffy, cheesy biscuits, it’s a dish that brings people together around the table. Whether you’re cooking for family or guests, this recipe delivers warmth, flavor, and lasting satisfaction.
Once you try it, it’s sure to become a regular in your comfort-food rotation.
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Seafood Pot Pie with Cheddar Bay Biscuit Topping: The Ultimate Comfort Food with a Coastal Twist
Ingredients
For the seafood filling:
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 carrot, diced (optional)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1½ cups seafood or chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream or whole milk
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning (or ½ tsp paprika + ¼ tsp thyme + pinch of cayenne)
- ½ tsp dried dill or parsley
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- 1 lb (450g) mixed seafood (e.g., peeled shrimp + flaky white fish like cod or halibut, cut into bite-sized pieces)
- ½ cup frozen peas
For the Cheddar Bay biscuit topping:
- 1½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- ½ tsp sugar
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup (1 stick / 115g) cold unsalted butter, cubed
- ¾ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ¾ cup whole milk
- Optional: extra cheese or parsley for topping
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13″ baking dish or deep 10-cup casserole.
- Make the filling:
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat oil over medium heat. Sauté onion, celery (and carrot, if using) 5–6 min until soft. Add garlic; cook 30 sec.
- Sprinkle in flour; stir 1–2 min to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in broth and cream. Bring to a simmer; cook 3–4 min until thickened.
- Stir in Old Bay, dill, salt, and pepper.
- Gently fold in seafood and peas. Cook 2–3 min until shrimp turn pink and fish is just opaque (don’t overcook—seafood will finish baking). Pour into baking dish.
- Make biscuit topping:
- In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.
- Cut in cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in cheese.
- Add milk; stir until just combined (do not overmix).
- Assemble & bake:
- Drop biscuit dough by spoonfuls over hot seafood filling.
- Optional: sprinkle extra cheese on top.
- Bake 20–25 minutes until biscuits are golden and filling is bubbly.
- Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving (filling will thicken as it cools).