Savory Cheddar Bay Seafood Pie Recipe

Indulge in the heartwarming flavors of the sea with a dish that marries comfort and sophistication – the divine Cheddar Bay Seafood Pie. Picture succulent shrimp and delicate lump crab nestled beneath a golden canopy of fluffy cheddar biscuits, all embraced by a creamy sauce infused with colorful veggies and aromatic herbs. This baked casserole is a symphony of flavors that brings a touch of luxury to any ordinary evening or a perfect finale to a long, tiring day.

Crafted to rescue busy weeknights without compromising on taste, the Cheddar Bay Seafood Pie has become a staple in my kitchen, earning rave reviews from both family and guests. The tempting aroma of Old Bay seasoning and melting cheddar never fails to draw my kids to the kitchen, eagerly awaiting a taste of this magical creation. While the sweet crab and velvety sauce are undeniably delightful, it’s the crispy cheddar biscuit topping that steals the show, adding a delightful crunch to every bite.

With a nod to tradition and a touch of modern convenience, this recipe beautifully blends the beloved Southern-inspired Cheddar Bay biscuits with the timeless appeal of seafood pies. Whether shared fresh out of the oven or savored as leftovers for a delightful lunch, this Cheddar Bay Seafood Pie promises a culinary experience that will have you coming back for more.

Quick Benefits

• Comforting and Indulgent: Enjoy a cozy, nostalgic meal that feels both comforting and slightly fancy, perfect for lifting spirits on a regular weeknight or celebrating a special occasion.
• Versatile and Adaptable: The recipe offers flexibility to customize based on ingredients on hand, allowing for variations with different seafood choices, seasoning substitutes, and cream options.
• Convenient and Make-Ahead: A lifesaver for busy schedules, this dish can be prepared in advance, stored in the fridge for up to two days, and reheated easily for a quick and delicious meal.
• Family-Friendly and Crowd-Pleasing: With its irresistible aroma and delicious flavors, this dish is a family favorite that will have everyone eagerly waiting at the table, making it a perfect option for gatherings or weekday dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Savory Cheddar Bay Seafood Pie Recipe Recipe

• Flavorful and Comforting: Indulge in every bite of this dish that combines tender shrimp, sweet lump crab, colorful vegetables, and fresh herbs, all enveloped in a creamy, savory sauce.
• Nostalgic Yet Fancy: Experience the perfect balance of nostalgia and sophistication in this baked casserole, making it ideal for both cozy weeknight dinners and special occasions.
• Family Favorite: Witness how this dish captivates the taste buds of both adults and kids, with its aromatic blend of Old Bay seasoning, melting cheddar, and flaky biscuit topping that leaves everyone craving more.
• Versatile and Convenient: Customize the recipe by using different seafood options like white fish or scallops, and make easy ingredient substitutions to suit your pantry, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.
• Make-Ahead Option: Enjoy the convenience of preparing this dish in advance, storing leftovers for a delicious lunch the next day, and savoring the flavorful layers that come back to life when reheated.
• Southern Charm: Embrace the Southern-inspired flavors of the Cheddar Bay biscuits, combined with the rich history of seafood pies, creating a delightful fusion of tradition and modern convenience.
• Serving Suggestions: Elevate your dining experience by pairing this seafood pie with a light green salad, roasted asparagus, or for brunch, complement it with a refreshing mimosa and fruit salad to balance the richness of the dish.

Ingredients for Savory Cheddar Bay Seafood Pie Recipe

Seafood

• 450 g shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 225 g lump crab meat

Vegetables and Aromatics

• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, plus extra for garnish
• 120 g diced red bell pepper
• 120 g diced onion
• 120 g chopped celery

Sauce

• 60 g unsalted butter
• 360 ml heavy cream
• 120 ml seafood stock or chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• 24 g all-purpose flour

Topping

• 120 g shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 pack Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix or homemade cheddar biscuit batter
• 80 ml whole milk (for biscuit mix)
• 28 g melted butter (for brushing tops)

Pro Tips for Savory Cheddar Bay Seafood Pie Recipe

Pro Tip 1: For a shortcut, you can use a store-bought Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix to save time. However, for a homemade touch, prepare biscuit dough from scratch with flour, baking powder, salt, butter, milk, and shredded cheddar. The extra effort will be worth it for a more personalized and flavorful touch to your seafood pie.

Pro Tip 2: To make this dish ahead of time, assemble the filling and biscuit topping separately. Store them covered in the refrigerator for up to two days. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake the pie fresh for the best texture and flavor preservation. This way, you can enjoy a warm and comforting seafood pie with minimal effort when you need it.

Pro Tip 3: Don’t limit yourself to just shrimp and crab; feel free to customize the seafood filling based on what you have on hand. Scallops or firm white fish can be excellent substitutes. Additionally, if you don’t have seafood stock, chicken broth works well as a flavorful alternative. Experiment with different seafood combinations and broths to create your own unique twist on this classic Cheddar Bay Seafood Pie.

How to Make Savory Cheddar Bay Seafood Pie Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Vegetable Base

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add celery, onion, and red bell pepper; sauté for 5 to 7 minutes until vegetables are softened.

Step 2: Develop the Roux

Add minced garlic to the pot and cook for 1 minute. Sprinkle flour over the garlic and whisk for 1 to 2 minutes until a smooth roux is formed.

Step 3: Create Creamy Sauce

Slowly pour in heavy cream and seafood stock while stirring constantly. Simmer until the mixture thickens to a creamy texture.

Step 4: Combine Seafood and Flavors

Gently combine shrimp and crab meat into the sauce and simmer until shrimp are cooked through. Stir in cheddar cheese, Old Bay seasoning, parsley, salt, and black pepper.

Step 5: Assemble Pie

Evenly spread the seafood mixture into greased individual ramekins or a medium casserole dish.

Step 6: Prepare Biscuit Topping

Prepare Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix as directed on package using milk. Drop spoonfuls of batter evenly over seafood mixture.

Step 7: Bake

Place the biscuits in a preheated oven at 200°C and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until they are puffed and golden brown.

Step 8: Finish and Garnish

Take out of the oven and promptly brush the tops of the biscuits with melted butter. Sprinkle extra chopped parsley on top before serving.

Storage Tips

Once you have enjoyed your delicious Cheddar Bay Seafood Pie and have some leftovers, it’s important to store them properly to maintain their flavor and texture. After allowing the dish to cool, cover it and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat the pie uncovered in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until it’s hot. If the biscuits have softened slightly, a few extra minutes under the broiler can help bring back their crunchiness.

For the best results, spoon the reheated seafood pie into shallow bowls to ensure each serving captures both the creamy sauce and the flavorful biscuit topping. While the dish is versatile and allows for substitutions like using different types of seafood or adjusting the seasoning, it’s recommended to store the assembled pie in the refrigerator and bake it fresh when you’re ready to serve for the tastiest outcome. This comforting and flavorful seafood pie is a wonderful dish to enjoy freshly baked or as a delightful leftover meal throughout the week.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have lump crab meat, you can easily substitute it with scallops or firm white fish. Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the seafood you choose to use. Another option is to increase the amount of shrimp or use a combination of different seafood for a diverse flavor profile.

In case you don’t have seafood stock on hand, chicken broth can be a suitable substitute that still adds depth and savory notes to the dish. While seafood stock provides the richest flavor, chicken broth is a good alternative that can work well in this recipe.

If you prefer making homemade cheddar biscuits instead of using a mix, you can prepare the biscuit dough using flour, baking powder, salt, butter, milk, and shredded cheddar cheese. This homemade touch can elevate the dish with a more personalized and fresh flavor.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try individualizing the Cheddar Bay Seafood Pie by baking them in ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets. This not only makes for a charming presentation but also allows for easy portioning and serving. Top each mini pie with a freshly baked cheddar biscuit for a delightful twist on a classic dish.

Another fun way to serve this comforting seafood pie is by incorporating a fun garnish. Sprinkle some crispy crumbled bacon on top of the cheddar biscuits before baking for an added layer of flavor and texture. The smoky, salty notes from the bacon will complement the creamy seafood filling beautifully, creating a truly indulgent experience. This garnish not only adds a delicious touch but also elevates the visual appeal of the dish, making it perfect for a special occasion or a cozy family dinner.

FAQs for Savory Cheddar Bay Seafood Pie Recipe

Can I substitute shrimp or crab with other types of seafood?

Yes, scallops or firm white fish can replace shrimp or crab. Adjust the cooking time as needed for different seafood choices.

Can I use chicken broth instead of seafood stock?

Seafood stock gives the richest flavor, but chicken broth is a good alternative if seafood stock is unavailable.

How can I make homemade cheddar biscuits for the pie?

Prepare biscuit dough with flour, baking powder, salt, butter, milk, and shredded cheddar for a homemade touch.

Can I prepare the pie in advance?

Yes, assemble the filling and biscuit topping separately. Refrigerate, then bake fresh when ready to serve.

Conclusion

As you take your first bite of this delectable Cheddar Bay Seafood Pie, may you savor the harmonious blend of flavors and experience the warmth it brings to your soul. This dish is more than just a recipe—it’s an invitation to create cherished moments around the dinner table, to bond over a meal that speaks of comfort and love.

Whether you’re treating your loved ones to a special meal or simply indulging in a cozy night in, let the rich seafood goodness of the Cheddar Bay Seafood Pie envelop you in its comforting embrace. With each mouthful, relish the buttery biscuit topping, the creamy seafood filling, and the melty cheddar that ties it all together. Embrace the simplicity and elegance of this dish, and let it transport you to a place of culinary delight. So go ahead, make this Cheddar Bay Seafood Pie, and let its flavors weave a story of togetherness and joy that you’ll want to recreate time and time again.