Hot Seafood Pie
A creamy, seafood-packed pie with a crunchy potato chip topping, perfect for seafood lovers and family dinners, blending savory flavors with a crispy crust.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups crushed potato chips, divided ⓘ
- 1/4 cup melted margarine ⓘ
- 2 (6 1/4 oz.) cans crab meat, drained and flaked
- 2 (4 1/4 oz.) cans medium shrimp ⓘ
- 1 cup chopped celery ⓘ
- 1/2 cup chopped green pepper ⓘ
- 1 tablespoon grated onions ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice ⓘ
- 1/4 cup chopped pimiento ⓘ
- 1 cup mayonnaise ⓘ
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese ⓘ
Instructions
- Combine crab meat, shrimp, celery, green peppers, onions, lemon juice, pimientos, and mayonnaise in a large bowl; stir well.
- Spoon the mixture into the potato crust.
- Combine remaining crushed potato chips and shredded cheese.
- Sprinkle the chip and cheese mixture over the top of the pie.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes or until the cheese melts and the topping is golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crispier crust, use thicker potato chips and ensure they are well-crushed. If crab meat isn't available, you can substitute with canned tuna or even smoked salmon for a different flavor. To enhance the freshness, consider adding a dash of Old Bay seasoning or using fresh herbs like dill or parsley. This dish works well with a variety of seafood, so feel free to experiment with shrimp types or even scallops.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Hot Seafood Pie with a light side salad, such as Seashell Salad With Louis Dressing, to balance its richness. A chilled glass of white wine or a light lager pairs nicely as well. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside crusty bread or garlic bread. This dish is also perfect for a potluck or family gathering, sure to impress guests.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pie in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the crust soggy; reheating in the oven helps maintain the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Seafood Pie contains roughly 335 calories, with 6g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the seafood mixture and assemble the pie a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. When ready to serve, add the topping of crushed chips and cheese, then bake as directed. This makes it convenient for gatherings or busy weeknights.
Can I use frozen seafood for this recipe?
Absolutely! If using frozen seafood, make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess moisture before mixing it in. This helps prevent a watery pie. Just ensure the seafood is cooked through if it’s not pre-cooked, and adjust cooking times as necessary.
What can I do to make the pie spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce into the seafood mixture. You can also sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top with the cheese before baking. This will give your Hot Seafood Pie a flavorful kick that seafood lovers will enjoy.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).