Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food – the Cajun Seafood Pot Pie! Growing up, my family took a few trips down to New Orleans, and every single time, I was irresistibly drawn to that rich, saucy, and savory goodness – it just warms my soul! This recipe combines all the enchanting flavors of the Gulf Coast with a wonderful flaky biscuit topping that makes you feel like you’re at a cozy New Orleans bistro. Seriously, if there’s ever a recipe that brings people together, this is it!
I love making this pot pie not only because it tastes incredible but also because it’s an absolute hit at dinner parties. Picture this: you’re pulling out a bubbling, golden pie from the oven while the kitchen fills with that mouth-watering aroma of Cajun spices, and without fail, everyone starts to gather around the table. The laughter, the delicious food, and the memories – it’s a delightful combination! Alright, let’s dive right into the details so you can create your very own Cajun Seafood Pot Pie!
What’s in Cajun Seafood Pot Pie?
Shrimp: These little ocean wonders are the heart of this dish. I always go for fresh, peeled, and deveined shrimp to make things easier, but frozen works just fine too if you can’t get them fresh.
Assorted seafood: You can mix and match your favorites here! Crab meat, scallops, or any fish you enjoy adds depth and flavor. The more variety, the better!
Onion, celery, and bell peppers: These three together create what’s known as the “holy trinity” of Cajun cooking. They add that essential base flavor that enhances the entire dish.
Garlic: The more garlic, the merrier! I can’t get enough of its aromatic flair.
All-purpose flour: This is used to thicken our filling, making it creamy and oh-so-satisfying.
Seafood stock or chicken broth: This adds a delightful depth to the pot pie. I love using homemade stock if I have it on hand – it makes such a difference!
Heavy cream: You know I can’t resist that creamy texture. It’s like a warm hug for your taste buds!
Cajun seasoning: Hello, flavor explosion! A robust blend of spices that gives this pot pie its signature kick.
Thyme: Just a hint to tie everything together.
Frozen peas: Optional but they add a pop of color and texture!
Milk: For that perfect biscuit dough consistency.
Butter: Because butter makes everything better!
Biscuit mix (or homemade biscuit dough): The crowning glory of the pot pie! That flaky, buttery biscuit topping is the star of the show!
Fresh parsley: A sprinkle for freshness and that picturesque finish!
Is Cajun Seafood Pot Pie Good for You?
The Cajun Seafood Pot Pie is a great way to indulge in nutrient-rich seafood while enjoying a comforting meal.
Shrimp and assorted seafood: Both are excellent sources of high-quality protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins that are fantastic for heart health.
Vegetables: The onions, celery, and bell peppers bring fibers and a host of vitamins to your plate, redeeming some of those rich flavors!
However, keep in mind that this dish is rich due to the heavy cream and butter. So, moderation is key! You can easily adapt the recipe by using lower-fat ingredients or swapping out heavy cream for a lighter option if needed. But trust me, this dish is meant to be enjoyed in all its decadent glory!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 lb assorted seafood (such as crab meat, scallops, or fish), chopped
– 1 cup onion, diced
– 1 cup celery, diced
– 1 cup bell peppers, diced (mixed colors for variety)
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups seafood stock or chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
– 1 teaspoon thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup butter, melted
– 2 cups biscuit mix (or homemade biscuit dough)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
*This recipe serves about 6 people, perfect for a family dinner or an intimate gathering!*
How to Make Cajun Seafood Pot Pie?
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Let’s get that kitchen filled with warmth!
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat, and toss in the diced onion, celery, bell peppers, and garlic. Sauté those veggies until softened, which will take about 5-7 minutes.
3. Sprinkle the flour over the softened mixture and stir to combine, cooking for about a minute. This will help get rid of that raw flour taste.
4. Gradually pour in the seafood stock while stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Add the heavy cream, Cajun seasoning, thyme, and season it with salt and pepper. Let this magical mixture simmer until it thickens, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in the shrimp and assorted seafood along with the peas (if you chose to use them). Cook for another 3-5 minutes until the seafood is just cooked through, then remove from heat and transfer this beauty into a cast iron skillet or your chosen baking dish.
6. In another bowl, prepare the biscuit dough according to the package instructions (or your homemade recipe). Mix in the milk and melted butter until smooth and creamy.
7. Now comes the fun part! Drop spoonfuls of the biscuit dough over the seafood mixture, leaving a little space in between for those biscuits to rise.
8. Brush the tops of the biscuits with a touch of melted butter for that extra flavor and browning – trust me, it’s worth it!
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the biscuit tops are golden brown and cooked through. Just wait until you smell that gorgeous aroma wafting through the kitchen!
10. Once you pull it from the oven, let it cool slightly (if you can resist!). Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Oh boy, I can’t wait for you to experience the joy of making and devouring this pot pie! It will melt in your mouth, and you’ll find yourself going back for seconds (or thirds, no judgment here!). If you give this recipe a try, please share your thoughts and maybe even a picture of your creation! Happy cooking!
