If you’re looking for a dish that wraps comfort, flavor, and a touch of elegance into one, let me introduce you to the Creamy Fish Pie with Cheddar and Dill Recipe. This delightful pie features tender chunks of mixed fish nestled in a velvety cheddar-infused sauce, elevated by fresh dill’s bright herbal notes and enveloped beneath a rich, buttery mashed potato crust. It’s the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and fresh, making it a heartfelt meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this fish pie is sure to become your new go-to classic.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because each ingredient is simple yet plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color. From the buttery Yukon Gold potatoes to the sharpness of cheddar cheese and the herbal freshness of dill, every component works harmoniously for that irresistible Creamy Fish Pie with Cheddar and Dill Recipe.
- 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes: Their creamy texture makes the perfect fluffy mash topping.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and smoothness to both potatoes and sauce.
- â…” cup milk: Hydrates the mashed potatoes for a silky smooth finish.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural flavors without overpowering them.
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced: Bring mild, fresh onion flavor and a bit of crunch in the filling.
- 2 medium carrots, chopped: Adds sweetness and texture contrast to the creamy base.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Offers a delicate, aromatic kick.
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce to just the right consistency.
- 2 cups milk: Creates a creamy backdrop for the cheddar sauce.
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided: Sharpness and gooeyness that defines the dish’s rich profile.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Adds depth and slight tanginess to balance creaminess.
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped: Infuses a vibrant, herby freshness to brighten the pie.
- 2 pounds mixed fish fillets (cod, halibut, salmon, etc.): A medley of textures and flavors from the sea.
- 1 cup frozen peas: Pops of sweet color and subtle freshness.
- ½ teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper: Essential seasoning to round out the filling.
How to Make Creamy Fish Pie with Cheddar and Dill Recipe
Step 1: Make the Mashed Potatoes
Start by boiling the peeled and cubed Yukon Gold potatoes in salted water until they are fork-tender. Once cooked, drain them well, then mash with butter, milk, and salt until you achieve a luxuriously creamy texture. These potatoes will form the luscious top crust that gives the pie its comforting, hearty appeal.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
While prepping other elements, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready for baking the assembled pie to a golden, bubbling perfection.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat and lightly cook the green onions, carrots, and minced garlic until softened, melding their sweetness and aroma. Sprinkle the flour over the veggies and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid any lumps and to develop a smooth base for your sauce.
Step 4: Make the Cheddar Dill Sauce
Gradually whisk in the milk to the vegetable mixture until it thickens into a rich sauce. Stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese, Dijon mustard, and chopped fresh dill until the cheese melts smoothly, creating a sauce that is creamy, sharp, and herbaceous all at once.
Step 5: Add Fish and Peas
Gently fold the fish pieces into the sauce, cooking just for a minute or two until they start to firm up but are not fully cooked through. Add the frozen peas and season with salt and pepper. This step ensures that the fish remains tender and juicy inside the pie while the peas deliver bursts of sweetness and color.
Step 6: Assemble the Pie
Transfer the fish and vegetable filling into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spoon the creamy mashed potatoes on top and spread evenly, then use a fork to create texture on the surface that will crisp up beautifully. Finish by sprinkling the remaining cheddar cheese across the top for an irresistibly cheesy crust.
Step 7: Bake Until Golden and Bubbling
Place your pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake it for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and the filling bubbles happily beneath. This final step brings all the flavors together into a cozy, indulgent masterpiece.
How to Serve Creamy Fish Pie with Cheddar and Dill Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra fresh dill right before serving brightens the rich pie with a fresh pop of color and flavor. A few lemon wedges on the side can add a zesty contrast that really wakes up the seafood elements beautifully.
Side Dishes
Keep things light with a crisp green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette or steamed seasonal vegetables such as green beans or asparagus. These sides add textural variety and keep the meal balanced without competing with the pie’s rich flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming rustic look, bake the pie in individual ramekins for single servings. Alternatively, try decorating the mashed potato topping with simple patterns using a fork or piping bag before baking. A drizzle of melted butter or a sprinkling of smoked paprika after baking can add a gourmet touch that impresses guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover Creamy Fish Pie with Cheddar and Dill Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually have time to meld even more, making every bite just as delicious the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze the pie before baking. Assemble it as usual, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, bake from frozen—this makes for a convenient and impressive meal after a busy day.
Reheating
Reheat leftover pie in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and the top is crisp again, about 20-25 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain the perfect texture of the mashed potato topping and ensure the filling heats evenly.
FAQs
Can I use different types of fish for this recipe?
Absolutely! This fish pie is incredibly flexible. Using a mix of firm white fish like cod or halibut alongside something richer like salmon gives great texture and flavor. Just be sure to cut fish into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
Can I substitute cheddar cheese with another type?
Cheddar provides signature sharpness, but you can experiment with cheeses like Gruyère or Parmesan for a different twist. Just keep in mind the flavor intensity to balance with the dill and mustard.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can swap butter and milk for dairy-free alternatives such as olive oil or vegan margarine and plant-based milk like oat or almond. Using dairy-free cheese that melts well will keep the creamy texture intact.
How do I know when the fish is cooked in the pie?
The fish cooks gently while baking but start by cooking it softly in the sauce for just 1-2 minutes in the pan. When baked, the fish should flake easily with a fork and appear opaque and tender in the filling.
Can I add more vegetables to the filling?
Definitely! Diced leeks, mushrooms, or sweet corn make lovely additions. Just sauté any extra veggies before adding flour and milk to maintain a smooth sauce.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly satisfying about a warm, cheesy fish pie bubbling fresh from the oven, and the Creamy Fish Pie with Cheddar and Dill Recipe nails it every time. It’s comforting yet fresh, simple but utterly delicious—perfect for cozy nights or impressing guests with homemade charm. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a beloved staple in your kitchen too!
Print
Creamy Fish Pie with Cheddar and Dill Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Description
A classic Fish Pie recipe featuring tender chunks of mixed fish in a creamy cheese and dill sauce, topped with fluffy mashed potatoes and baked to golden perfection. This hearty and comforting dish combines the rich flavors of seafood and sharp cheddar, perfect for a family dinner.
Ingredients
Mashed Potatoes
- 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- â…” cup milk
- ½ teaspoon salt
Filling
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced
- 2 medium carrots, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 2 pounds mixed fish fillets (cod, halibut, salmon, etc.), cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 cup frozen peas
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Make Mashed Potatoes: Boil the peeled and cubed Yukon Gold potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain thoroughly, then mash with 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter, ⅔ cup milk, and ½ teaspoon salt until creamy and smooth. Set aside.
- Preheat Oven: Set the oven to preheat at 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the assembled pie.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Add the thinly sliced green onions, chopped carrots, and minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Sprinkle with 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and cook for 2 minutes while stirring constantly to form a roux.
- Make Sauce: Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk to the roux until the mixture is smooth and thickens into a creamy sauce. Stir in 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, and 2 tablespoons of fresh chopped dill. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated.
- Add Fish and Peas: Gently fold in the 2-pound mixture of fish fillets into the sauce and cook for 1-2 minutes just to start cooking the fish. Add 1 cup of frozen peas, and season the filling with ½ teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper, mixing carefully to combine.
- Assemble Pie: Pour the fish filling into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread the prepared mashed potatoes evenly over the filling, creating a textured surface by running a fork through the top. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the mashed potato topping.
- Bake: Place the baking dish on a baking sheet and transfer to the oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown, bubbly, and the filling is hot throughout.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let the fish pie rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy this comforting meal warm.
Notes
- Use a mixture of fish fillets like cod, halibut, and salmon for varied flavor and texture.
- Ensure potatoes are well drained before mashing to avoid watery mashed potatoes.
- You can substitute sharp cheddar with mature cheddar for a stronger flavor.
- Leftover Fish Pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated thoroughly before serving.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute butter and milk with plant-based alternatives.
- The textured surface on the mashed potatoes helps achieve a crispier top when baking.
