Baked Fish In Cheese Sauce
A savory baked fish dish topped with a cheesy sauce and optional shrimp, blending rich flavors with a creamy texture that appeals to seafood lovers and family dinners alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the fish fillets into serving pieces.
- Arrange the fish pieces in a greased 2-quart baking dish in a single layer.
- In a saucepan, melt the margarine over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour and cook until bubbly, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add the salt, dry mustard, dill, and cayenne pepper, stirring well.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and gradually stir in the milk until smooth.
- Return the saucepan to heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce is slightly thickened, about 3-5 minutes.
- Mix in 1 cup of shredded Cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Add the cooked small shrimp if using, stirring to combine.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the fish in the baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded Cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of margarine. You can substitute the Cheddar cheese with Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different taste. If you want an extra kick, add more cayenne or a splash of hot sauce. To save time, use pre-cooked shrimp and skip the cooking step. This dish also pairs beautifully with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the baked fish with a side of rice or roasted potatoes to soak up the delicious cheese sauce. A crisp green salad or sautéed asparagus complements the dish nicely. For a seafood-themed meal, consider pairing it with *Curried Shrimp In Cream Sauce, adding a delightful variety to your table.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the fish in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid reheating in the microwave as it may make the fish rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Fish In Cheese Sauce contains roughly 706 calories, with 37g protein, 107g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (166% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (145% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2402mg per serving (104% 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 a different type of fish for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the fish fillets with any firm white fish like tilapia, cod, or haddock. Just ensure the fish is fresh and cooked until flaky. Adjust cooking times if using thicker fillets.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish up to the baking step, cover it with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Can I freeze the baked fish in cheese sauce?
Yes, you can freeze the dish after baking. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before warming in the oven.
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).