Baked Fish Au Gratin
A creamy baked fish au gratin featuring tender whitefish topped with cheese, herbs, and a rich sauce, perfect for seafood lovers and family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place half of the fish fillets in a greased baking dish and cover with 4 slices of cheese.
- Sprinkle with thyme and chopped parsley.
- Saute chopped onions in butter until softened, then add to the fish in the dish.
- In a double boiler, melt butter and stir in flour to make a roux.
- Add salt and pepper to the roux and cook until the mixture thickens.
- Pour the sauce over the fish and bake at 400°F for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese to the roux. If you don't have whitefish, cod or haddock can be great substitutes. Fresh thyme can be replaced with dried herbs, but use less since dried herbs are more potent. For a crispy topping, add breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Baked Fish Au Gratin with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad, like Nanna Salad, to balance the richness of the dish. A light white wine or sparkling water complements the flavors nicely. For a heartier meal, consider pairing with rice or a baked potato.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the fish in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through, ensuring the cheese melts slightly but doesn't burn.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Fish Au Gratin contains roughly 270 calories, with 13g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (310% of the Daily Value), iron (85% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (65% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1844mg per serving (80% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen fish fillets for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen fish fillets, but make sure to thaw them completely before baking. This will ensure even cooking and prevent excess moisture from affecting the dish. Pat the fillets dry with a paper towel after thawing for best results.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for the roux. Ensure that the cheese and any other ingredients are also certified gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten.
What can I add to enhance the flavor?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the roux or mixing in some chopped garlic with the onions while sautéing. A pinch of cayenne pepper can also add a subtle heat that pairs well with the cheese and fish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).