Seafood Pot Pie

Seafood Pot Pie

Seafood pot pie is a comforting, hearty dish that combines a rich, creamy filling with flaky, golden-brown crust. This savory pie is packed with tender shrimp, scallops, and white fish, enveloped in a velvety sauce made with butter, cream, and aromatic herbs.

It’s a perfect dish for seafood lovers, ideal for a cozy dinner or a special occasion. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening or at a holiday gathering, seafood pot pie is sure to be a crowd-pleaser with its deliciously comforting flavors and satisfying textures.

Ingredients:

1 lb mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, and white fish, such as cod or haddock)

2 tbsp butter

1/2 cup onion, finely chopped

1/2 cup celery, finely chopped

1/2 cup carrots, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

1 1/2 cups seafood broth (or chicken broth)

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup frozen peas

1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

1/2 tsp thyme (dried or fresh)

Salt and pepper to taste

1 package (2 sheets) refrigerated puff pastry or pie crust

1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

How to Make:

Prepare the Seafood: If using fresh seafood, peel and devein the shrimp, then chop the shrimp and fish into bite-sized pieces. If you’re using frozen seafood, thaw it and drain any excess liquid. Set the seafood aside.

Make the Filling: In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened and slightly translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Thicken the Sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir to combine. Cook the flour for about 2 minutes to eliminate the raw taste, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Gradually pour in the seafood broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Once the broth is incorporated, add the heavy cream and stir until the mixture thickens to a creamy consistency.

Add the Seafood: Gently fold the seafood into the creamy mixture, followed by the peas, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 5 minutes until the seafood is just cooked through and tender. Be careful not to overcook the seafood, as it will continue cooking in the oven. Once done, remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.

Prepare the Pie Crust: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry or pie crust to fit your baking dish. If using puff pastry, ensure you have enough to cover the top and edges of the dish. Lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish or individual ramekins. Pour the seafood mixture into the prepared dish.

Top the Pie: Lay the rolled-out puff pastry or pie crust over the top of the filling, pressing the edges down to seal. Use a knife to cut small slits or a design on top of the crust to allow steam to escape. Brush the top of the crust with the beaten egg to give it a golden, glossy finish.

Bake the Pot Pie: Place the pie in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crispy. Check periodically to make sure the filling is bubbling around the edges.

Serve: Remove the pot pie from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Slice and serve with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables on the side for a complete meal.

Chef’s Note:

For a twist on the classic seafood pot pie, you can mix in some additional ingredients like mushrooms, leeks, or fresh spinach for extra flavor. You can also use store-bought puff pastry for a quicker, easier option, or make your own homemade pie crust for an extra special touch.

If you prefer a lighter version, consider substituting half-and-half or milk for the heavy cream, although the consistency may be slightly thinner. To make the dish ahead of time, prepare the filling and crust separately, then assemble and bake just before serving. The unbaked pot pie can be refrigerated for up to 2 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition Information (per serving, makes 6 servings):

Calories: 460

Protein: 28g

Carbohydrates: 29g

Fat: 28g

Saturated Fat: 13g

Cholesterol: 120mg

Sodium: 690mg

Fiber: 3g

Sugars: 4g

This Seafood Pot Pie is a luxurious dish that combines the rich flavors of seafood with the comforting warmth of a baked pie. The creamy filling and crisp crust are the perfect complement to the tender seafood, making it an unforgettable meal. Whether enjoyed as a family dinner or at a special gathering, it’s sure to impress and satisfy any seafood lover.