Name: Easy Fish Pie Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 30 g Butter; 30 g Plain flour; 600 ml Milk (Whole or semi-skimmed); 2 tsp Dijon mustard; 15 g Fresh parsley (Finely chopped); 200 g Cod (Cubed); 200 g Smoked haddock (Cubed); 200 g Skinless salmon (Cubed); 150 g Frozen peas; Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper; 1 kg Potatoes (See notes); 3 tbsp Butter; 100 g Cheddar cheese (Grated)

Print Recipe·4 from 14 reviews

If you are looking for a comforting, hearty, and absolutely delicious dish to make any night feel special, this Easy Fish Pie Recipe is your new best friend. Packed with tender chunks of cod, smoked haddock, and salmon, all nestled in a creamy, mustard-infused sauce with a fluffy mashed potato topping, this fish pie is both simple to prepare and impressive on the plate. It strikes the perfect balance between rich flavors and homey vibes, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser every time you serve it.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white rectangular dish filled with three layers of ingredients: the bottom layer has chunks of white fish, pink salmon pieces, and yellow bell pepper pieces, scattered evenly; the middle layer is a generous spread of bright green frozen peas, covering the fish and vegetables; on the right side, creamy white sauce with green herbs is being poured from a black pan over the peas and fish. The dish is set on a white marbled surface, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Preparing this Easy Fish Pie Recipe is a breeze because it relies on a handful of straightforward, essential ingredients that each contribute deliciously to the final dish’s flavor and texture. From creamy butter that enriches the sauce and mash to the fresh parsley that adds a pop of color and freshness, every element counts.

30 g Butter: Provides richness for the sauce and mash.
30 g Plain flour: Thickens the sauce perfectly.
600 ml Milk (Whole or semi-skimmed): Creates a silky base for the sauce.
2 tsp Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle tang that livens up the flavors.
15 g Fresh parsley (Finely chopped): Brings freshness and a hint of earthiness.
200 g Cod (Cubed): Delivers mild, flaky fish texture.
200 g Smoked haddock (Cubed): Adds a savory, smoky depth.
200 g Skinless salmon (Cubed): Offers rich flavor and vibrant color.
150 g Frozen peas: Infuse sweetness and color contrasts.
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance taste.
1 kg Potatoes: Form the fluffy, golden mash topping (see notes for best type).
3 tbsp Butter: For creamy mashed potatoes.
100 g Cheddar cheese (Grated): Gives a crunchy, golden crust when baked.

How to Make Easy Fish Pie Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the potatoes

Start by peeling and chopping your potatoes into even chunks to ensure they cook quickly and uniformly. Pop them into a large pan, cover with cold water, and bring to the boil. Let them soften for about 15 to 20 minutes, as tender potatoes are the foundation of that beautifully fluffy mash topping.

Step 2: Make the mashed potato topping

Once your potatoes are perfectly soft, drain them thoroughly and mash them immediately with 3 tablespoons of butter. Don’t forget to season generously with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper — this is what brings the mash alive. Set this creamy mash aside for when the pie is assembled.

Step 3: Whip up the sauce

In a large pan, melt 30 grams of butter over medium heat and whisk in the plain flour to form a smooth roux paste. Next, gradually pour in the milk while continuously whisking to avoid lumps. Cook this mixture gently for 4 to 5 minutes until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon perfectly. At this stage, stir in the Dijon mustard and freshly chopped parsley, seasoning with salt and pepper. This creates that signature tangy, herb-infused cream sauce that holds the pie together.

Step 4: Add the fish and peas

Place the cubed cod, smoked haddock, and salmon into a baking dish, then sprinkle in the frozen peas for bursts of sweetness. Pour over the luscious sauce evenly, ensuring every morsel of fish is lovingly coated to lock in moisture and flavor during baking.

Step 5: Top with mashed potato and cheese

Now it’s time for the crowning glory — spread the fluffy mashed potato mixture over the fish and sauce using a fork to create a rustic textured surface. Finally, scatter the grated cheddar cheese all over the top. This layer will melt and crisp beautifully in the oven, making your Easy Fish Pie Recipe look irresistible.

Step 6: Bake to perfection

Pop your pie into a preheated oven at 180℃ fan (or 200℃ conventional/gas mark 6) and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the mash turns golden and the cheese is bubbling and crisp around the edges. This signals that your pie is ready to come out and be devoured.

How to Serve Easy Fish Pie Recipe

This image shows a white rectangular baking dish filled with a layered casserole. The top layer is golden brown baked mashed potatoes with a slightly crispy edge and some green chopped herbs sprinkled on top. One corner of the dish is scooped out, revealing the inside layers which include creamy white sauce, bright green peas, white potato chunks, and pink salmon pieces. The dish sits on a white marbled texture with salt and pepper shakers nearby, a blue cloth on the right, and a partially visible white plate with more casserole at the bottom. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding a final touch to your Easy Fish Pie Recipe can elevate it from comforting to celebratory. Fresh parsley sprinkled on top adds vibrancy and a fresh herbaceous note that contrasts perfectly with the rich flavors. A wedge of lemon on the side provides an optional zing of citrus that brightens every bite.

Side Dishes

While this fish pie stands proudly on its own, pairing it with some crisp green vegetables like steamed broccoli or green beans adds crunch and a fresh balance. For a more indulgent spread, buttery carrots or a light, peppery watercress salad serve as excellent complements, creating a harmonious and satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to wow your guests, try serving this Easy Fish Pie Recipe in individual ramekins for personal portions that look charming and elegant. Alternatively, swirl the mashed potatoes decoratively with a fork or piping bag before adding the cheese topping for a professional touch. These small gestures make your comforting fish pie feel extra special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled completely, cover any leftover fish pie tightly with cling film or a lid and store it in the fridge. It will keep well for up to 2 days, making it perfect for easy weekday lunches or dinners.

Freezing

This Easy Fish Pie Recipe freezes brilliantly. To freeze, assemble the whole pie, but hold off on adding the cheese topping. Wrap it well in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, bake from frozen, adding the cheese halfway through baking for that perfect golden finish.

Reheating

To reheat, place the pie in a preheated oven at 180℃ and cover loosely with foil to prevent the mash drying out. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes if you like to refresh that golden cheese crust.

FAQs

Can I use other types of fish for this Easy Fish Pie Recipe?

Absolutely! While cod, smoked haddock, and salmon are classic choices, you can substitute with haddock, pollock, or even a firm white fish fillet as long as the flesh is fresh and not too delicate.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can use dairy-free margarine instead of butter and substitute regular milk with almond, oat, or soy milk. Just be cautious with cheese topping; vegan cheese alternatives work well if you want to keep the meltiness and flavor.

What type of potatoes work best for the mash?

Floury potatoes like Maris Piper or King Edward are best because they become light and fluffy when mashed, providing the perfect texture contrast to the creamy fish filling.

Can I prepare this pie ahead of time before baking?

Definitely! Assembling the entire pie in advance and keeping it in the fridge overnight makes weeknight cooking so much easier. Just bake it fresh when ready, adding the cheese topping right before going into the oven for best results.

How can I make this dish more kid-friendly?

Omit the Dijon mustard for a milder flavor, and feel free to swap peas with sweetcorn or softened carrots. Using a little extra cheese topping always helps win over little taste buds!

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about serving up an Easy Fish Pie Recipe that combines simple ingredients with soul-satisfying flavors. Whether it’s your go-to comfort food or a dish for sharing, it’s endlessly versatile and utterly delicious. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and make this cozy classic a new favorite at your table!