If you’re looking for a comforting, yet elegant dish to impress guests or just to enjoy a cozy dinner at home, Creamy Fish & Shrimp Pot Pie is the answer. This pot pie is a perfect combination of tender seafood, creamy sauce, and a flaky puff-pastry crust, making it a perfect option for any occasion. The rich flavors of fish, shrimp, and vegetables come together in a silky white sauce, all baked under a golden, crispy puff-pastry topping. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or treating your family to something special, this dish is sure to become a favorite!
What is Creamy Fish & Shrimp Pot Pie?
A Creamy Fish & Shrimp Pot Pie is a savory seafood dish that combines tender fish, shrimp, and vegetables in a rich, creamy sauce. It’s topped with a golden puff-pastry crust that becomes delightfully crispy when baked. The pie has a luxurious texture, with a balance of sweetness from the seafood, earthiness from the vegetables, and creaminess from the sauce. It’s comfort food elevated to a new level of elegance, making it an excellent choice for both casual and special occasions.
Origin of the Recipe
The Fish & Shrimp Pot Pie is a modern twist on the traditional pot pie. Originally, pot pies were popular in English and French cuisine, typically filled with meat and vegetables, and topped with a pastry crust. The seafood version, especially using fish and shrimp, is a more contemporary variation, inspired by coastal cuisines. This recipe brings together the flavors of the sea, combining them with a classic dish that’s been loved for generations. Over time, the creamy sauce and puff pastry have become the hallmark of a comforting seafood pot pie.
Ingredients for Creamy Fish & Shrimp Pot Pie (4–6 servings)
Seafood:
- ¾ lb firm white fish (cod, halibut, haddock), cut into 1-inch chunks
- ½ lb shrimp, peeled & deveined
- 1 cup scallops or crab (optional, for extra richness)
Vegetables:
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 cup diced onion
- 1 cup diced potatoes (Yukon Gold works great)
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
Creamy Sauce:
- 4 tbsp butter
- ¼ cup flour
- 2 cups seafood stock (or chicken stock)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- ½ cup dry white wine (optional but highly recommended)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp Old Bay or seafood seasoning
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 1–2 tbsp fresh dill or parsley, chopped
- Zest of ½ lemon
Crust:
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Step-by-Step Directions and Preparation Method
1. Preheat Oven
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the pie will bake at the right temperature for that crispy, golden finish.
2. Par-cook the Vegetables
- In a large pot or skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat.
- Add onion, carrots, celery, and potatoes. Cook for 6–8 minutes until softened but not fully tender.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute to release its aroma.
3. Make the Creamy Base
- Add the remaining 2 tbsp butter to the pot and let it melt.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a light roux. This thickens the sauce.
- Slowly pour in the white wine, seafood stock, and heavy cream while whisking to avoid lumps. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth.
- Add Dijon mustard, Old Bay, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
4. Add Seafood
- Gently fold in the fish, shrimp, scallops or crab, and frozen peas.
- Add the fresh dill or parsley, stirring gently to combine all ingredients.
- Simmer for just 2–3 minutes until the shrimp start to turn pink. The seafood will finish cooking in the oven, so don’t overcook it now.
5. Assemble the Pot Pie
- Pour the creamy seafood mixture into a deep pie dish or baking dish. Ensure it’s evenly spread out.
- Roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet over the top of the dish. Trim any excess and fold the edges neatly over the sides.
- Cut a few small steam slits in the pastry to allow the steam to escape during baking.
- Brush the top of the pastry with a lightly beaten egg wash to give it a beautiful, golden color once baked.
6. Bake the Pot Pie
- Place the pie dish in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the crust is puffed and golden, and the filling is bubbling around the edges.
- Once done, remove from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set slightly.
Tips & Variations
- Extra Comfort: Add ½ cup shredded Gruyère or cheddar to the sauce for a cheesy, rich flavor.
- Herb Boost: Fresh tarragon or chives can add a beautiful, seafood-friendly note to the dish.
- No Puff Pastry? If you don’t have puff pastry, you can substitute with a regular pie crust or biscuit dough for a different texture.
- Make-Ahead: Prepare the creamy seafood filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply top with puff pastry just before baking.
- Lighter Version: For a lighter take on the recipe, use half milk and half cream instead of heavy cream, and skip the wine if preferred.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Shrimp Pot Pie
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling up to 24 hours ahead. Just keep it in the fridge and top with the puff pastry before baking.
What seafood can I use for this pot pie?
Cod, halibut, and haddock work best for the white fish, while shrimp and scallops are great additions. If you prefer, you can also use crab for a richer flavor.
Can I use a store-bought pie crust instead of puff pastry?
Absolutely! A pre-made pie crust can be used as an alternative, though puff pastry gives a crispier, more elegant finish.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Creamy Fish & Shrimp Pot Pie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Conclusion: Creamy Fish & Shrimp Pot Pie
Creamy Fish & Shrimp Pot Pie is a luxurious, comforting dish that combines tender seafood with a creamy, flavorful sauce and a golden puff-pastry crust. It’s the perfect meal for a special occasion or a cozy night in. Whether you stick with the classic ingredients or try some fun variations, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Don’t hesitate to try different herbs or add some cheese for extra richness. Enjoy the comforting, elegant flavors of this dish that will make any meal feel like a celebration!
