Fish Pie with Creamy Seafood Filling
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
This Fish Pie with Creamy Seafood Filling is a comforting dish that combines tender fish and a rich, creamy sauce, all encased in a flaky pastry. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Fish pie is a classic dish that brings comfort and warmth, perfect for chilly evenings. The creamy seafood filling, made with fresh fish and a blend of seasonings, creates a delightful experience in every bite. This dish is not only delicious but also a great way to enjoy seafood in a family-friendly format.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy filling that’s packed with flavor
- Flaky pastry that adds the perfect crunch
- A great way to enjoy a variety of seafood in one dish
The Comfort of Home Cooking
There's something incredibly satisfying about preparing a homemade dish like Fish Pie. The aroma of sautéing onions and garlic fills the kitchen, creating a welcoming atmosphere that draws family and friends together. Cooking at home allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring that every bite is fresh and tailored to your tastes. This dish not only warms the belly but also nurtures the soul, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or gatherings.
Fish Pie embodies the essence of comfort food. The combination of tender fish and prawns enveloped in a creamy sauce wrapped in flaky pastry brings a sense of nostalgia. Whether it's a chilly evening or a special occasion, this dish provides a sense of warmth and coziness that is hard to replicate. Savoring each bite can transport you back to cherished moments spent around the dinner table.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Fish Pie is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for various occasions. From casual family dinners to more elegant gatherings, this dish can easily be dressed up or down. Serve it with a side of seasonal vegetables for a simple weeknight meal or pair it with a crisp salad for a refined brunch option. Its adaptability ensures that it can fit seamlessly into your meal planning repertoire.
Moreover, this recipe allows for creativity. Feel free to mix and match different seafood options based on what’s available or your personal preferences. Incorporating ingredients like scallops or smoked fish can add a unique twist to the traditional recipe, making it your own. This versatility not only keeps the dish interesting but also caters to a range of taste buds.
Tips for Perfecting Your Fish Pie
To achieve the perfect Fish Pie, consider using a mix of fish types for added texture and flavor. While cod and haddock are classic choices, incorporating salmon or even some white crab meat can elevate the dish. Ensure that the seafood is fresh and of high quality, as this will significantly impact the final taste.
When it comes to the pastry, rolling it out evenly is key to ensuring it bakes uniformly. If you’re short on time, store-bought pastry can be a huge time-saver without compromising on taste. Always allow the pie to cool for a few minutes before slicing; this helps the filling set slightly, preventing it from spilling out when served.
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 400g white fish fillets (e.g., cod or haddock), chopped
- 200g prawns, peeled and deveined
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 300ml fish stock
- 200ml double cream
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pie
- 500g shortcrust pastry
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.
Instructions
Prepare the Filling
In a large pan, sauté the onion and garlic until translucent. Add the flour and stir for 1 minute. Gradually pour in the fish stock and cream, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens.
Assemble the Pie
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Roll out the shortcrust pastry and line a pie dish. Pour the seafood filling into the pastry base.
Bake the Pie
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown. Let it cool slightly before serving.
Serve hot with a side of green vegetables or a fresh salad.
Storage and Reheating
Leftover Fish Pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Ensure it is covered tightly to maintain its freshness. When reheating, place it in an oven preheated to 180°C (350°F) for about 15-20 minutes. This method helps preserve the flaky texture of the pastry while warming the filling evenly.
If you have a larger batch, consider freezing it before baking. Wrap the assembled pie tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it can be stored for up to three months. To bake from frozen, simply increase the baking time to about 45-50 minutes, ensuring that it's heated through and the pastry is golden brown.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Fish Pie with a side of steamed green beans or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal. The freshness of the vegetables complements the richness of the pie, creating a harmonious dining experience. A light vinaigrette can add a zesty touch that cuts through the creaminess of the filling.
For an extra indulgent treat, serve the pie with a dollop of tartar sauce or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. This enhances the seafood flavors and adds a refreshing contrast. A glass of chilled white wine or a light lager can also elevate the meal, making it a delightful treat for any occasion.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen fish for this recipe?
Yes, frozen fish works well, but ensure it's fully thawed and drained before use.
→ What type of fish can I use?
You can use any firm white fish, such as cod, haddock, or even salmon for a richer flavor.
→ Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the pie.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Fish Pie with Creamy Seafood Filling
This Fish Pie with Creamy Seafood Filling is a comforting dish that combines tender fish and a rich, creamy sauce, all encased in a flaky pastry. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
For the Filling
- 400g white fish fillets (e.g., cod or haddock), chopped
- 200g prawns, peeled and deveined
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 300ml fish stock
- 200ml double cream
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pie
- 500g shortcrust pastry
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
How-To Steps
In a large pan, sauté the onion and garlic until translucent. Add the flour and stir for 1 minute. Gradually pour in the fish stock and cream, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens. Add the fish, prawns, dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes, then remove from heat.
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Roll out the shortcrust pastry and line a pie dish. Pour the seafood filling into the pastry base. Cover with another layer of pastry, crimping the edges to seal. Make a few slits on top for steam to escape, and brush with beaten egg.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown. Let it cool slightly before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 23g