This Easy Creamy Nigella Fish Pie is a warm hug in a dish! Filled with tender fish, creamy sauce, and topped with fluffy mashed potatoes, it’s comfort food at its best.
If you ask me, the best part is the crispy potato topping. I can never resist sneaking spoonfuls before it hits the table—who can blame me? 😄
This pie is super easy to make, too! Just toss everything together, bake, and watch everyone come back for seconds. It’s a win for dinner parties or cozy family nights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fish: A mix of cod, salmon, and smoked haddock makes this pie really tasty. If you can’t find these fish, any firm white fish like haddock or tilapia works well, or even shrimp can be added for variety.
Mashed Potatoes: For the topping, homemade is best! If you’re short on time, store-bought mashed potatoes or even frozen ones can work in a pinch. Just make sure they’re creamy to balance the filling!
Double Cream: Heavy cream gives a rich taste, but you can use half-and-half or even coconut milk for a lighter option. If dairy-free, try a nut-based cream for a similar texture.
Onion: Any onion works, but I like using a sweet onion or shallots for a milder flavor. If you’re craving a stronger taste, green onions can add a nice twist.
How Do I Make the Sauce Smooth and Creamy?
Creating a smooth sauce is key in this pie! Follow these simple tips:
- Start with medium heat when melting butter and sautéing onions to prevent burning.
- When adding flour, cook it briefly. This avoids a raw flour taste but don’t let it brown.
- Whisk as you pour in the milk and cream gradually. This helps avoid lumps in your sauce.
- Don’t rush the thickening process—let it simmer gently for a few minutes until it coats the back of a spoon.
If you notice lumps, just whisk it vigorously or use a blender for a super-smooth finish!
Easy Creamy Nigella Fish Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb (450 g) mixed fish fillets (e.g., cod, salmon, smoked haddock), skin removed and cut into chunks
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 1/4 cups (300 ml) milk
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) double cream or heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1-2 tsp Dijon mustard or English mustard (optional)
For the Topping:
- 4 cups (about 900 g) mashed potatoes (prepared with butter and cream or milk)
- 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful fish pie will take about 15 minutes to prepare, and around 30 minutes to bake. So, in just under an hour, you can create a comforting meal that’s perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will get it nice and hot, ready for our delicious pie!
2. Prepare the Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s melted, add the finely chopped onion and sauté gently until soft, which should take about 5 minutes. It’ll smell amazing!
3. Make the Roux:
Next, stir in the flour to create a roux. Cook it for 1-2 minutes—just enough time to get rid of the raw flour taste, but don’t let it turn brown!
4. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Gradually whisk in the milk and cream. Keep whisking to avoid any lumps forming. Let it cook gently until the sauce thickens, which will take around 5-7 minutes.
5. Season the Sauce:
Now, season your creamy sauce with salt, pepper, and nutmeg if you like that flavor. Feel free to stir in some mustard at this point for a little extra zing!
6. Combine the Filling:
Gently add the fish chunks and the frozen peas into the sauce, stirring carefully to coat everything nicely. This is the heart of your pie, and it’s looking tasty!
7. Assemble the Pie:
Pour the delicious fish and sauce mixture into a baking dish. Make sure it’s spread out evenly. Then, take your prepared mashed potatoes and spoon them evenly over the top, ensuring everything is fully covered.
8. Add the Cheese Topping:
If you’re a cheese lover (who isn’t?), sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes for an extra bit of flavor and richness!
9. Bake the Pie:
Place your pie in the preheated oven uncovered. Bake it for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy, and you can see the filling bubbling underneath.
10. Let It Rest:
Once it’s done, take your pie out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the filling set a little more, making it easier to serve!
Enjoy your creamy, comforting Nigella-style fish pie! Perfect for a cozy dinner or a family gathering. Dig in and savor every bite!
FAQ for Easy Creamy Nigella Fish Pie
Can I Use Different Types of Fish?
Absolutely! While cod, salmon, and smoked haddock are great choices, feel free to mix and match any firm white fish like tilapia, haddock, or even shrimp for added flavor. Just ensure everything is cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
Can I Make the Fish Pie in Advance?
Yes, you can! Prepare the filling and mashed potatoes ahead of time, then assemble the pie up to a day in advance. Store it in the fridge, and when you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven—might need a few extra minutes!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover fish pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use the microwave, but be careful not to overcook it.
Can I Use Fresh Peas Instead of Frozen?
Yes, fresh peas can be used if you have them on hand! Just blanch them briefly in boiling water for a minute before adding them to the sauce, as they cook faster than frozen peas.
