Cheddar Bay Seafood Pie: A Comforting Coastal Classic with a Biscuit Twist

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cheddar Bay Seafood Pie is the kind of dish that feels both special and comforting at the same time. It brings together a creamy seafood filling with a rich, cheesy biscuit topping that bakes up golden and irresistible. I enjoy making this recipe when I want something hearty but still refined enough to serve to guests. The combination of tender seafood, savory vegetables, and the unmistakable flavor of cheddar biscuits creates a meal that feels indulgent without being overly complicated. I once tested this recipe using a mix of shrimp and white fish, and the balance was excellent. It is perfect for cooler evenings, family dinners, or when you want a one-dish meal that delivers warmth and satisfaction from the first bite to the last.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Shrimp add a sweet, tender bite and cook quickly, making them ideal for baked seafood dishes.

White fish fillets such as cod or haddock provide a mild, flaky texture that absorbs the creamy sauce beautifully.

Butter forms the base of the sauce, adding richness and depth to the filling.

Onion contributes sweetness and a savory backbone once softened.

Garlic enhances the overall flavor with subtle warmth.

All-purpose flour thickens the sauce, giving the pie its classic creamy consistency.

Milk creates a smooth, velvety sauce that binds the seafood and vegetables together.

Seafood or vegetable stock adds depth and reinforces the seafood flavor.

Frozen peas provide color, sweetness, and balance to the richness of the sauce.

Salt enhances all the individual flavors in the filling.

Black pepper adds gentle seasoning without overpowering the seafood.

Cheddar Bay biscuit mix creates the signature topping, delivering a cheesy, buttery crust.

Cheddar cheese intensifies the topping with sharp, savory notes.

Fresh parsley adds a touch of freshness and visual appeal.

Directions

Preheat the oven to 190°C and lightly grease a baking dish.

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until soft and translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook briefly until fragrant. Sprinkle in the flour and cook for one minute, stirring constantly to remove any raw flour taste.

Gradually whisk in the milk and stock, allowing the mixture to thicken into a smooth sauce. Season with salt and black pepper. Add the shrimp, white fish, and peas, stirring gently to coat everything evenly. Remove from heat and transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.

Prepare the Cheddar Bay biscuit mix according to package directions, folding in extra shredded cheddar cheese for added richness. Drop spoonfuls of the biscuit dough evenly over the seafood filling.

Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the filling is bubbling and the biscuit topping is golden brown. Let the pie rest briefly before serving.

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.

 3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves approximately six people. Preparation time is about 25 minutes, with a baking time of 35 minutes, making it suitable for a relaxed evening meal.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the biscuit texture, or use a microwave for quicker reheating.

Variations and Customizations

This recipe is highly adaptable. You can substitute scallops or crab for part of the seafood mix. For a richer sauce, replace part of the milk with cream. Adding corn or diced carrots introduces extra sweetness and texture. If you prefer a homemade topping, a simple cheddar biscuit dough can replace the mix. Herbs such as thyme or dill work well for a more aromatic profile.

Nutrition and Dietary Info

Cheddar Bay Seafood Pie provides a good source of protein from seafood and dairy. It contains moderate fat and carbohydrates, making it a filling, balanced meal. For a lighter version, use reduced-fat milk and increase the vegetable content.

Expert Tips & Customizations

Balanced Seafood Mix
Combine different seafood types for varied texture and flavor.

Sauce Consistency
The filling should be thick but pourable before baking.

Golden Topping
Avoid overbaking to keep the biscuits tender inside.

Rest Before Serving
Allowing the pie to rest helps the filling set properly.

FAQs

Can I use frozen seafood?

Yes, thaw and drain it well before cooking.

Does the seafood need to be fully cooked before baking?

No, it will finish cooking in the oven.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the filling in advance and add the topping before baking.

What if I do not have biscuit mix?

A homemade cheddar biscuit dough works well.

Can I freeze this pie?

Freezing is possible, but the biscuit texture may soften slightly.

Is this dish very rich?

It is creamy but balanced by seafood and vegetables.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free flour and biscuit mix.

What sides pair well with this pie?

A green salad or steamed vegetables are excellent options.

How do I know it is done?

The filling should bubble and the topping should be golden.

Can I add spice?

A pinch of cayenne or paprika adds gentle heat.

Conclusion

Cheddar Bay Seafood Pie is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that blends coastal flavors with a hearty, cheesy topping. It is satisfying, versatile, and well-suited for both everyday meals and special occasions. Once you try it, it is likely to become a regular favorite at your table.

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