Fish Pie with Cheesy Mash Recipe
Looking for the best Fish Pie with Cheesy Mash recipe? This comforting British classic combines tender cod, salmon, shrimp, and peas in a rich, creamy herb sauce, topped with fluffy cheddar mashed potatoes and baked until golden and bubbling. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or cozy evenings, this hearty seafood casserole is packed with flavor and protein.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Classic British comfort food
Rich, creamy seafood filling
Golden cheesy mashed potato topping
High in protein and family-friendly
Great for meal prep and leftovers
Perfect for cozy weeknight dinners
⏱️ Recipe Details
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: Approximately 560 kcal per serving
Protein: 35 g per serving
🛒 Ingredients
For the Fish Filling
12 oz (340 g) cod fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
12 oz (340 g) salmon fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
8 oz (225 g) peeled shrimp
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
½ cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
1 cup frozen peas
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Cheesy Mash
2 lb (900 g) Yukon Gold or Maris Piper potatoes, peeled and chopped
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
½ cup whole milk
1½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Topping
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon chopped parsley
Freshly ground black pepper
👨🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
Boil the potatoes in salted water for 15–20 minutes, or until fork-tender.
Drain well and mash with:
Butter
Milk
Cheddar cheese
Salt
Pepper
Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Fish Filling
Heat the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Cook the onion for 4–5 minutes until softened.
Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Sprinkle in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream until smooth.
Stir in:
Dijon mustard
Lemon zest
Lemon juice
Simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Fold in:
Cod
Salmon
Shrimp
Peas
Parsley
Dill
Season with salt and black pepper.
Cook gently for 5 minutes, just until the seafood begins to cook.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Transfer the fish mixture to a greased baking dish.
Spread the cheesy mashed potatoes evenly over the top using a spatula or fork.
Sprinkle with:
Parmesan cheese
Chopped parsley
Freshly ground black pepper
Use a fork to create ridges on the mash for extra crispness.
Step 4: Bake
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges.
For an extra-crispy top, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.
Allow the pie to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve this comforting fish pie with:
Steamed green beans
Buttered peas
Roasted carrots
Garden salad
Crusty bread
Pickled onions
💡 Chef’s Tips
Pat the seafood dry before adding it to the sauce to avoid excess liquid.
Don’t overcook the fish on the stovetop—it will finish cooking in the oven.
Use freshly grated cheddar for the smoothest, richest mash.
Create ridges in the mashed potatoes with a fork to achieve a beautifully crisp, golden crust.
🧊 Storage
Refrigerator: Store covered for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze before or after baking for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until thoroughly heated.
🥗 Nutrition (Per Serving)
Calories: 560 kcal
Protein: 35 g
Carbohydrates: 31 g
Fat: 33 g
Saturated Fat: 17 g
Fiber: 3 g
Sugar: 6 g
Sodium: 610 mg
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen fish?
Yes. Thaw the fish completely, pat it dry, and use it as directed in the recipe.
What fish work best?
Cod, haddock, salmon, pollock, and smoked haddock are all excellent choices. A combination of white fish and salmon provides the best flavor and texture.
Can I make Fish Pie ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the pie, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
What side dishes pair well with Fish Pie?
Steamed vegetables, buttered peas, green beans, roasted carrots, crusty bread, or a fresh green salad are all classic accompaniments.
