Irish Cod Pie Topped With Mashed Potatoes
Description: Dive into this hearty, comforting Irish Cod Pie, a classic one-dish meal perfect for any day of the week. With its creamy, cheesy sauce enveloping tender cod fillets and topped with golden, buttery mashed potatoes, this dish brings warmth and satisfaction in every bite. Ideal for St. Patrick’s Day or any time you crave a comforting European dish, this recipe is both delicious and straightforward. For an extra touch of flavor, consider trying garlic mashed potatoes or a blend of mashed potatoes and cauliflower with roasted garlic, as a clever way to sneak in some vegetables. 🌿🧄
Ingredients:
- 2 cod fish fillets
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1/2 liter (about 2 cups) milk
- 5 ounces (140 grams) grated cheese
- 4 cups mashed potatoes (you can use garlic mashed potatoes or mashed potatoes with cauliflower for extra flavor)
- 4 tablespoons butter (for dotting)
Optional Additions:
- 2 sliced scallions (for garnish)
- 1/2 to 1 cup peeled and deveined shrimp (for added flavor)
Instructions:
-
Preheat Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (230°C). This will ensure it’s hot and ready to crisp up the mashed potatoes on top of your pie. -
Prepare the Dish:
Lightly butter an 8x8x2 inch baking dish. Place the cod fillets evenly in the bottom of the dish. For easier cleanup and to catch any sauce that might bubble over, set the dish on a cookie sheet pan. -
Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour, cooking the mixture for about 2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually pour in 1/2 liter of milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it begins to thicken. Add the grated cheese and continue stirring until the cheese has completely melted and the sauce is smooth. -
Assemble the Pie:
Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the cod fillets. Spread it out with a spoon to ensure that all the fish is covered. -
Top with Mashed Potatoes:
Spoon the mashed potatoes over the cheese sauce, spreading them evenly to cover the entire surface. Dot the top with small pieces of butter for added richness. -
Bake:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the pie is bubbly. The potatoes should develop a crispy, golden crust. -
Optional Garnishes:
For an extra touch, stir 2 sliced scallions into the cheese sauce after it’s cooked, just before pouring it over the cod fillets. This adds a fresh, zesty flavor. Alternatively, you can mix in 1/2 to 1 cup of peeled and deveined shrimp with the cod for added seafood flavor. -
Serve:
Once baked, let the pie sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set and makes it easier to portion out.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 544
- Fat: 26.2g
- Saturated Fat: 15.9g
- Cholesterol: 135.9mg
- Sodium: 910.8mg
- Carbohydrates: 37.8g
- Fiber: 2.4g
- Sugar: 2.1g
- Protein: 38.3g
Servings: This recipe yields approximately 6 servings, making it perfect for a family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends.
Enjoy this comforting Irish Cod Pie, and embrace the delicious blend of creamy cheese, tender cod, and golden mashed potatoes. It’s a dish that truly embodies the essence of comfort food. 🍽️💚
