Irresistible Cheddar Bay Seafood Pie Recipe for Seafood Lovers

Recipe By:
Melisa Egan
Updated:

Cheddar Bay Seafood Pie is a delightful amalgamation of ocean-fresh flavors and cheesy goodness that will make your taste buds do the happy dance. Imagine a flaky crust cradling a rich filling, bursting with succulent seafood and the unmistakable zing of cheddar, wafting aromas that could tempt even the most dedicated vegetarian into a seafood love affair.

This dish brings back memories of cozy family dinners where laughter echoed off the walls while we devoured every last morsel. Cheddar Bay Seafood Pie is perfect for those chilly evenings when you want comfort food that feels like a warm hug. Just one bite and you’ll be transported to a seaside cottage, savoring the delicate balance of flavors that perfectly complement each other.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This Cheddar Bay Seafood Pie is simple to prepare, making it an ideal weeknight dinner option.
  • Each bite reveals layers of rich flavors, combining seafood with a cheesy twist.
  • The golden-brown crust combined with the colorful filling creates an eye-catching presentation on your dinner table.
  • Perfect for special occasions or casual family meals, this pie fits any occasion beautifully.

Ingredients for Cheddar Bay Seafood Pie

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Pie Crust: A store-bought or homemade pie crust serves as a flaky foundation for your pie; just make sure it’s thawed if frozen.

  • Fresh Shrimp: Opt for peeled and deveined shrimp, packed with flavor and easy to work with; fresh shrimp is always best.

  • Scallops: Sweet scallops add a luxurious touch; look for firm, plump ones for the best texture.

  • Clams: Canned clams are convenient; they bring an ocean-like brininess to the pie without any fuss.

  • Heavy Cream: This creamy base adds richness and depth to your filling; don’t skimp on this ingredient!

  • Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Use sharp cheddar for maximum flavor impact—it’s the star of this cheesy show.

  • Onion: Sautéed onions lend sweetness and depth; yellow or white onions work well in this recipe.

  • Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves elevate the flavor profile; minced garlic brings out all the savory goodness.

For seasoning:

  • Dill: Fresh dill adds an aromatic touch that complements seafood beautifully.

  • Lemon Juice: A splash of lemon juice brightens up all those rich flavors and balances the dish perfectly.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Cheddar Bay Seafood Pie

How to Make Cheddar Bay Seafood Pie

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures everything bakes evenly while you prepare your delightful filling.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In a skillet over medium heat, add some olive oil and sauté chopped onions until they turn translucent. Toss in minced garlic too; let it sizzle until fragrant—this smells like heaven!

Step 3: Prepare Seafood Filling

Add shrimp, scallops, and clams to your skillet. Cook until shrimp turns pink and scallops are opaque. Stir in heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, dill, and lemon juice until melted and creamy.

Step 4: Fill Your Crust

Spread your prepared seafood mixture into a ready pie crust. Don’t be shy; pile it high! If there’s any leftover filling, grab a spoon—it’s too good not to taste.

Step 5: Bake

Place your assembled pie in the preheated oven. Bake for about 30-35 minutes or until the crust turns golden brown and flakey—that’s when you know it’s done!

Step 6: Serve

Once baked to perfection, allow it to cool slightly before serving. Slice into wedges and enjoy every flavorful bite—you deserve it!

Now that you’ve mastered Cheddar Bay Seafood Pie, gather around the dining table with friends or family—it’s time to dig into this comforting masterpiece!

You Must Know

  • This Cheddar Bay Seafood Pie offers not just flavor but a delightful experience for your taste buds.
  • It’s easy to customize with ingredients you love, and its vibrant appearance makes it a showstopper at any gathering.
  • Perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven and preparing your crust. While the crust bakes, sauté the seafood and vegetables. Mix in your creamy base, then pour everything into the crust and finish baking for a golden perfection.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out seafood for your favorites—shrimp, crab, or even veggies! Experiment with spices like Old Bay seasoning or add a splash of hot sauce for a kick that’ll make your taste buds dance.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop it back in the oven until warm; this keeps that delightful crust crispy and the filling creamy.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • To achieve that perfect golden crust, brush it with butter before baking.
  • Don’t overcrowd the filling; less is more for even cooking.
  • Always let the pie rest for 10 minutes before slicing to maintain its shape.

I remember the first time I made this Cheddar Bay Seafood Pie for my family. The moment they took their first bite, all I heard were happy sighs and forks clinking on plates—a true culinary victory!

FAQs

What ingredients do I need for Cheddar Bay Seafood Pie?

To make Cheddar Bay Seafood Pie, gather essential ingredients such as fresh seafood, including shrimp and crab, a creamy sauce, and a flaky pie crust. You’ll also need shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and Old Bay seasoning for flavor. Fresh herbs like parsley enhance the taste. If you want to add vegetables, consider peas or corn for extra color and nutrition. This combination creates a delightful dish that everyone will love.

How long does it take to prepare Cheddar Bay Seafood Pie?

Preparing Cheddar Bay Seafood Pie typically takes about 20 minutes for prep work and around 30-40 minutes for baking. The total time from start to finish is approximately one hour. However, if you are using pre-made pie crusts or frozen seafood, this can speed up the process. Cooking times may vary based on your oven’s efficiency and the specific seafood used, so always keep an eye on your pie as it bakes.

Can I customize the seafood in Cheddar Bay Seafood Pie?

Absolutely! One of the best aspects of Cheddar Bay Seafood Pie is its versatility. You can easily swap out shrimp for scallops or add lobster if you prefer. Feel free to mix different types of seafood according to your taste preferences or what you have on hand. Just ensure that the total amount of seafood remains consistent to maintain the pie’s texture and flavor balance.

Is Cheddar Bay Seafood Pie suitable for freezing?

Yes, Cheddar Bay Seafood Pie freezes well! To freeze it properly, let the pie cool completely after baking. Then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven until warmed through. This makes it perfect for meal prep or making ahead for special occasions.

Conclusion for Cheddar Bay Seafood Pie

In summary, Cheddar Bay Seafood Pie is a delightful dish that brings together savory seafood with rich flavors and a deliciously cheesy topping. With simple ingredients and easy preparation steps, this recipe is perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners at home. Remember to feel free to customize your seafood choices based on preference or availability. By following this guide, you will create a crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy!

Print

Cheddar Bay Seafood Pie

Cheddar Bay Seafood Pie is a comforting dish that combines fresh seafood with creamy cheddar, all encased in a flaky crust. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this delightful recipe bursts with ocean flavors and is sure to impress your guests. With its rich filling and golden-brown crust, each slice offers a taste of coastal comfort that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

  • Author: Jennifer
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 8
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Seafood

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 store-bought pie crust (thawed if frozen)
  • 8 oz fresh shrimp (peeled and deveined)
  • 8 oz scallops
  • 1 can (6.5 oz) clams (drained)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 medium onion (chopped)
  • 2 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 2 tbsp fresh dill (chopped)
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
  3. Stir in shrimp, scallops, and clams, cooking until shrimp turns pink and scallops are opaque. Mix in heavy cream, cheddar cheese, dill, and lemon juice until melted and creamy.
  4. Pour the seafood mixture into the pie crust.
  5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
  6. Allow to cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (85g)
  • Calories: 385
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 560mg
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 24g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 16g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: Customize the seafood by swapping shrimp for crab or lobster based on your preference. For added flavor, consider using Old Bay seasoning or a dash of hot sauce. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to three days or frozen for later enjoyment.

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!

You might also like these recipes

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating