Description
This classic British dish brings together tender fish, creamy sauce, and a golden mashed potato or puff pastry topping. Whether you’re longing for a taste of home or eager to try something new, this easy fish pie recipe delivers a comforting and nourishing seafood dinner perfect for the whole family.
Ingredients
Scale
- 500g white fish fillets (cod, haddock, or salmon)
Substitution: You can mix different fish like smoked haddock, prawns, or tuna for added flavor. - 500ml milk
- 50g butter
- 50g plain flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Pinch of nutmeg
Optional for added warmth. - Aromatic vegetables (onions, carrots, celery)
Optional add-ins: peas, spinach, or leeks. - Mashed potatoes or puff pastry
Substitution: Choose between creamy mashed potatoes for comfort or puff pastry for a crispy top. - Fresh herbs (dill, parsley, chives)
Optional for garnish.
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan)/400°F/Gas 6. Grease a baking dish with butter or oil. - Poach the Fish:
In a large pan, poach the fish fillets in 500ml milk over medium heat until flaky, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the fish, flake it into bite-sized pieces, and reserve the milk for later use. - Make the Sauce:
Melt 50g butter in a pan, add 50g flour, and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to form a roux. Gradually add the reserved milk, stirring to avoid lumps, until a smooth sauce forms. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. - Combine Fish and Vegetables:
In the creamy sauce, gently fold in the flaked fish and any cooked vegetables like peas or carrots. Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish. - Topping Choices:
- Mashed Potato: Spread a layer of mashed potatoes over the fish mixture, using a fork to roughen the top for a crispy finish.
- Puff Pastry: Roll out puff pastry and cover the dish, trimming any excess and crimping the edges.
- Bake:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling. If using puff pastry, ensure it puffs and browns evenly. - Garnish and Serve:
Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or chives for a refreshing touch.
Notes
- For Dairy-Free: Use non-dairy milk (like almond or oat milk) and margarine or plant-based butter.
- For Gluten-Free: Substitute flour with gluten-free flour and use gluten-free puff pastry or simply opt for a mashed potato topping.
- For Added Flavor: Smoked fish like haddock or a mix of seafood (prawns, salmon) can elevate the flavors.
- Vegetables: Add peas, spinach, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Nutrition
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 40g (from mashed potatoes or puff pastry)
- Protein: 30g