Shrimp & Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Pot Pie – Creamy, Savory, and Comforting

Introduction

Seafood lovers rejoice! This Shrimp & Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Pot Pie brings together succulent shrimp, tender lobster, and a rich, creamy seafood filling, all topped with buttery, cheesy Cheddar Bay biscuits. It’s a luxurious twist on the classic pot pie that’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or entertaining guests.

What makes this dish truly special is the combination of fresh seafood and a cheddar-infused biscuit topping. The creamy filling, seasoned with Old Bay and fresh herbs, creates a perfectly balanced flavor profile. Each bite offers a delightful mix of textures: tender seafood, a velvety sauce, and a golden, cheesy biscuit that melts in your mouth.

This recipe is not only indulgent but also flexible and approachable. While it features shrimp and lobster, it can be adapted to other seafood options depending on availability or preference. Using a homemade or store-bought biscuit topping allows you to customize the richness and texture of the final dish.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or trying a more sophisticated seafood recipe for the first time, this Shrimp & Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Pot Pie provides a step-by-step guide to achieving a comforting and visually stunning result.

Ingredients

For the Filling

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 stalk celery, diced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups seafood stock (or chicken stock if needed)
½ cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
½ pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
½ pound cooked lobster meat, chopped
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

For the Cheddar Bay Biscuit Topping

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons cold butter, grated
½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
⅓ cup whole milk (plus 1 tablespoon if needed)
1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives or parsley (optional)

Understanding the Ingredients

Seafood

Shrimp and lobster are the stars of this dish. Shrimp add sweetness and a firm texture, while lobster provides a rich, buttery flavor. Use high-quality fresh or frozen seafood for the best results.

Aromatics

Onion, celery, and garlic form the flavor base of the filling. Sautéed in butter, these ingredients release their natural sweetness and depth, creating a savory foundation for the creamy sauce.

Creamy Base

Butter, flour, and heavy cream create a velvety sauce. The flour acts as a thickening agent, while the cream adds richness, binding the seafood and vegetables together.

Seasonings

Old Bay seasoning is iconic for seafood dishes. It enhances the natural flavor of shrimp and lobster, while salt, pepper, and fresh parsley provide balance and freshness.

Cheddar Bay Biscuit Topping

This topping combines all-purpose flour, garlic powder, butter, and sharp cheddar cheese. The grated butter ensures flakiness, while the cheese contributes flavor and a golden crust. Adding chives or parsley enhances the visual appeal and adds a fresh note.

Milk

Milk is used to bind the biscuit dough. The amount can be adjusted slightly to achieve a soft, slightly sticky dough that will bake into light, fluffy biscuits.

Preparation Method

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a shallow baking dish for the pot pie. This ensures even cooking of the filling and biscuits.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, finely chopped onion, and diced celery. Sauté until vegetables are tender and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly to remove the raw flour taste.

Gradually pour in the seafood stock while whisking to prevent lumps. Add the heavy cream, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens and reaches a creamy consistency.

Fold in the shrimp and lobster meat, stirring gently to combine. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the seafood is just heated through. Remove from heat and stir in fresh parsley. Transfer the filling to your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheddar Bay Biscuit Topping

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, garlic powder, and salt. Add the grated butter and rub it into the flour mixture using your fingers until it resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese.

Add milk gradually, stirring until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. If the dough seems too dry, add 1 tablespoon more milk.

Step 4: Assemble the Pot Pie

Spoon the biscuit dough over the top of the seafood filling. Spread evenly, or use a spoon to create small biscuit mounds for a rustic look. Optional: sprinkle with chopped chives or parsley for garnish.

Step 5: Bake

Place the pot pie in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and the filling is bubbly. For extra browning, broil the top for 1–2 minutes at the end, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Remove the pot pie from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. This allows the filling to set slightly. Serve warm, garnished with extra fresh parsley if desired.

Tips for Perfect Shrimp & Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Pot Pie

Use Fresh or High-Quality Seafood
Fresh or properly thawed seafood ensures the best texture and flavor. Avoid overcooking shrimp and lobster to keep them tender.

Avoid Overmixing Biscuit Dough
Overworking the dough can make biscuits tough. Mix until just combined for a light, fluffy topping.

Customize the Biscuit Topping
Add extra shredded cheese or a pinch of smoked paprika for variation. Flaky butter or cold coconut oil can enhance biscuit texture.

Control Moisture
If the filling seems too thick before baking, stir in a bit more cream or stock. If it seems too thin, cook a few more minutes on the stovetop to thicken.

Check for Doneness
Biscuit topping should be golden and slightly firm. The filling should be bubbly, indicating it’s heated through.

Serving Suggestions

Elegant Dinner
Serve with a light salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Family Dinner
This pot pie is hearty and satisfying, perfect for sharing with family on a cozy night.

Entertaining
Individual servings in ramekins make this recipe suitable for dinner parties or special occasions.

Optional Sides
Steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or a citrusy arugula salad complement the rich seafood flavors beautifully.

Variations

Spicy Seafood Pot Pie
Add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for heat.

Mixed Seafood
Include scallops or crab meat alongside shrimp and lobster for a more luxurious filling.

Gluten-Free Biscuit Topping
Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the biscuit topping. Add ½ teaspoon xanthan gum if the blend doesn’t include it for structure.

Cheese Variations
Swap cheddar for Gruyère or fontina for a different flavor profile.

Mini Pot Pies
Make individual servings in ramekins and adjust baking time to 15–20 minutes.

Nutritional Perspective

This dish is rich in protein and essential nutrients. Shrimp and lobster provide lean protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and minerals such as selenium and zinc. Butter, cheese, and cream contribute healthy fats and calcium. Old Bay seasoning and parsley add antioxidants and flavor without extra calories. While indulgent, it can be part of a balanced diet when paired with vegetables or a light salad.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen seafood?
Yes, but thaw completely and pat dry before using to avoid excess moisture in the filling.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Prepare the filling in advance and refrigerate. Add the biscuit topping and bake just before serving.

Can I use only shrimp or only lobster?
Absolutely. Adjust quantities as needed; the flavor will remain rich and satisfying.

Can I use a store-bought biscuit topping?
Yes. Premade biscuit dough works in a pinch. Sprinkle with cheddar and herbs to maintain the Cheddar Bay flavor.

Can I freeze this pot pie?
Freeze before baking with uncooked biscuits for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.

How do I prevent soggy biscuits?
Ensure the filling is thick and not overly wet. Avoid spreading biscuit dough too thin.

Can I add vegetables to the filling?
Yes. Diced carrots, peas, or corn can be added for extra flavor and nutrition. Adjust cooking time slightly if adding firm vegetables.

Can I make a lighter version?
Use reduced-fat cream, light butter, or less cheese. Consider steaming seafood rather than sautéing in butter for a lower-fat version.

What wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Chardonnay complements the creamy, cheesy seafood flavors.

Can I use herbs other than parsley?
Chives, dill, or tarragon pair beautifully with seafood and cheddar.

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Conclusion

The Shrimp & Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Pot Pie is a decadent yet approachable seafood dish that combines creamy, flavorful filling with a golden, cheesy biscuit topping. It’s perfect for special occasions, cozy family dinners, or entertaining guests. With fresh seafood, a velvety sauce, and savory cheddar biscuits, this pot pie delivers restaurant-quality flavor at home. Following this guide ensures tender seafood, a rich filling, and fluffy, golden biscuits every time.