A British comfort food favorite, this cheesy fish pie combines flaky white fish, creamy sauce, and a golden mashed potato topping into one irresistible dish. Perfect for cozy family dinners or entertaining guests, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results right from your home kitchen.
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
This fish pie strikes the perfect balance between elegant and homey. The combination of different fish adds depth and interest, while the cheesy mashed potato topping provides a satisfying crunch that gives way to a creamy, savory filling underneath.
Ingredients
For the filling:
- 600g mixed fish (cod, haddock, salmon)
- 400ml whole milk
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 onions, finely chopped
- 100g butter
- 50g plain flour
- 150g frozen peas
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
For the topping:
- 1kg potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 100g butter
- 100ml warm milk
- 150g mature cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 egg yolk (optional, for extra richness)
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes Boil the potatoes in salted water for 15-20 minutes until tender. Drain well, return to the pan, and mash with butter and warm milk until smooth. Stir in half the grated cheese and season well. Set aside.
- Cook the Fish Place the fish in a large pan with the milk and bay leaf. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 5-8 minutes until the fish flakes easily. Remove the fish with a slotted spoon, strain and reserve the milk, and flake the fish into large chunks.
- Make the Sauce Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until soft but not colored, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the reserved milk and cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens. Season well.
- Assemble the Pie
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F)
- Fold the flaked fish, peas, and parsley into the sauce
- Transfer to a large ovenproof dish
- Top with the mashed potatoes, creating peaks with a fork
- Sprinkle with remaining cheese
- Bake Place in the oven for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and bubbling at the edges.
Chef's Tips
- Let the pie rest for 10 minutes before serving to help it set
- For extra flavor, add a handful of prawns or smoked fish to the mixture
- Make ahead and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking
- Leftover pie will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot with steamed green vegetables or a simple salad. A slice of crusty bread on the side is perfect for mopping up the creamy sauce.
Recipe Notes
- Serves: 6
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
This classic cheesy fish pie is sure to become a family favorite. The combination of flaky fish, creamy sauce, and cheesy potato topping creates a comforting meal that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're cooking for a casual family dinner or hosting guests, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
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