Seafood Pot Pie

Creamy Seafood Pot Pie is a delightful twist on the traditional pot pie, making it perfect for family dinners or special occasions. This dish combines a medley of flavors including succulent crab, tender shrimp, and savory turkey turkey turkey bacon, all enveloped in a flaky crust. It’s not just delicious but also budget-friendly, allowing you to savor an extravagant meal without breaking the bank.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With a prep time of just 15 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of crab and shrimp with creole seasoning creates a rich and satisfying flavor profile.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a cozy dinner at home or impress guests at your next gathering.
• Budget-Friendly: Utilizing frozen seafood and pantry staples keeps costs low without sacrificing taste.
• Comfort Food: This pot pie is sure to warm you up on chilly nights, providing that classic comfort food feel.

Tools and Preparation

To create your perfect Seafood Pot Pie, having the right tools can make all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large skillet
• Pie plate
• Non-stick cooking spray
• Mixing spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Why These Tools Matter

• Large skillet: Essential for evenly heating your seafood mixture without overcrowding.
• Pie plate: Ensures even baking of the crust for that golden finish.
• Non-stick cooking spray: Helps prevent sticking, making serving and cleanup easier.

Ingredients

Creamy seafood pot pie is an extravagant version of classic pot pie that still doesn’t break the grocery budget. A medley of crab, cooked shrimp, creole seasoning, turkey turkey turkey bacon, and veggies get tucked into a flaky crust.

For the Seafood Filling

• 1 8 oz pkg frozen cooked salad shrimp
• 1 1/2 cups frozen mixed veggies (we used a combo of corn, carrots, and peas)
• 1 10.75 oz can condensed cream of shrimp soup
• 1/3 cup milk
• 1 8 oz pkg imitation crab (roughly chopped)
• 1/4 cup crisp cooked (crumbled turkey turkey turkey bacon)
• 1 1/4 cup shredded Monterey jack cheese (divided)
• 1/4 tsp pepper
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 2-3 tsp Creole seasoning
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

For the Crust

• 1 15 oz pkg refrigerated pie crust (2 crusts)
• 2 tbsp butter (melted)

How to Make Seafood Pot Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Seafood Mixture

In a large skillet add the shrimp, veggies, cream of shrimp soup, and milk. Stir together and heat over medium heat until the shrimp and veggies start to thaw.

Step 2: Incorporate Additional Ingredients

Stir in the imitation crab, turkey turkey turkey bacon, 1/4 cup shredded cheese, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and creole seasoning until well combined. Continue heating while stirring occasionally for about 6-8 minutes or until everything is heated through and the cheese has melted completely. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Prepare the Pie Crust

Spray a 9 pie plate with non-stick cooking spray. Unroll the first pie crust gently into the plate so it fits snugly along the bottom and sides.

Step 4: Add the Filling

Spoon the seafood mixture evenly over the pie crust. Then spread out the remaining shredded cheese on top for added flavor.

Step 5: Seal with Second Crust

Unroll the second pie crust carefully over the filling. Lightly press down on the edges to seal them together. Cut 1-3 small slits into the top crust to allow steam to escape. Brush with melted butter for a golden finish.

Step 6: Bake

Preheat your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. Place your filled pie in the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the crust turns golden brown. Once baked, let it sit for a couple of minutes before slicing into warm servings.

How to Serve Seafood Pot Pie

Serving seafood pot pie is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with the right accompaniments. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, parmesan cheese, and crunchy croutons tossed in a creamy dressing complement the richness of the pot pie.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with seasonal greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette balances the hearty flavors of the pie.

Add Some Bread

• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread provides a satisfying crunch and makes for excellent dipping in any leftover sauce.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft and fluffy dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up the creamy filling of the pot pie.

Serve with a Side of Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients, making your meal even healthier.
• Roasted Asparagus: Tossed in olive oil and roasted until tender, asparagus offers a wonderful texture contrast to the pot pie.

How to Perfect Seafood Pot Pie

To ensure your seafood pot pie turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Ingredients: Use high-quality seafood for the best flavor. Fresh shrimp and crab can elevate your dish significantly.
• Bold Seasoning: Don’t shy away from using enough Creole seasoning. It adds depth and enhances the overall taste of the filling.
• Bold Crust Choice: Ensure your pie crust is well-chilled before baking. A cold crust will bake up flakier and more delicious.
• Bold Cheese Usage: Use a mix of cheeses for added flavor. Combining Monterey jack with cheddar can create a richer filling.
• Bold Cooking Time: Keep an eye on baking time. Ensure the crust is golden brown without overbaking to maintain that flaky texture.

Best Side Dishes for Seafood Pot Pie

Pairing side dishes with your seafood pot pie can elevate your dining experience. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting addition that complements the richness of the pot pie.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling of the seafood pot pie.
3. Crispy French Fries: Golden fries add a fun and casual touch while offering a satisfying crunch alongside each bite of pie.
4. Quinoa Salad: A colorful quinoa salad with diced vegetables gives a healthy option packed with flavors and textures.
5. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Naturally sweet baked sweet potatoes add an interesting twist while pairing well with savory flavors.
6. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob brings sweetness and is perfect for adding another layer to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a seafood pot pie, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps that can impact the final dish. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the Thawing: Not thawing the shrimp and veggies properly can lead to uneven cooking. Always allow them to thaw before adding them to your mixture.
• Overfilling the Pie Crust: Using too much filling can cause the crust to burst during baking. Stick to the recommended amounts for best results.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Under-seasoning can make your pot pie bland. Be generous with spices like Creole seasoning to enhance flavors.
• Ignoring Baking Time: Baking for too long or too short can ruin your crust. Keep an eye on it and look for a golden brown color as a sign of doneness.
• Not Letting it Rest: Cutting into the pot pie right after baking can lead to a messy serving. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover seafood pot pie in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Seafood Pot Pie

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Seafood Pot Pie

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and reheat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Seafood Pot Pie?

Seafood pot pie is a savory dish filled with shrimp, imitation crab, and vegetables in a creamy sauce, all encased in flaky pie crust.

Can I customize the Seafood Pot Pie?

Absolutely! Feel free to add different types of seafood or adjust the veggies based on your preferences.

How do I ensure my pie crust is flaky?

Using cold ingredients and handling the dough minimally helps keep your crust flaky and light.

What sides pair well with Seafood Pot Pie?

A simple green salad or garlic bread complements this dish perfectly without overpowering it.

Conclusion

This seafood pot pie is not only hearty and delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. With its creamy filling and flaky crust, it’s sure to please everyone at your dinner table. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins!

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