Baked Fish In White Sauce
Baked fish in a creamy white sauce with lemon, mustard, and cracker topping offers a flavorful, comforting dish perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fold the fish fillets in half and place them in a casserole dish.
- Sprinkle the fish with lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Melt the margarine in a pan; stir in flour and gradually add milk, cooking until the mixture is thick and bubbly.
- Add brown mustard to the sauce and pour it over the fish.
- Top the casserole with Ritz cracker crumbs.
- Bake at 350°F for 45 minutes until golden and cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use firm white fish like cod or haddock. If you want a healthier option, consider substituting margarine with olive oil or unsalted butter. To enhance flavor, add herbs like dill or parsley to the sauce. If you're short on time, pre-made white sauce can be used as a quick alternative to the homemade version.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the baked fish hot, garnished with fresh lemon wedges and a sprinkle of parsley. It pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables or a light salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside rice or a baked potato. This dish complements a glass of white wine or a light lager.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the fish in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the fish rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Fish In White Sauce contains roughly 985 calories, with 3g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 98g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 863mg per serving (38% 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, frozen fish fillets can be used, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture. This ensures that the sauce adheres well and the fish bakes evenly.
What can I substitute for Ritz cracker crumbs?
If you don't have Ritz crackers, you can use panko breadcrumbs, crushed cornflakes, or even crushed potato chips for a similar crunchy topping. Each alternative will give a slightly different texture and flavor but will work well in this recipe.
How do I know when the fish is fully cooked?
The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F. If you’re unsure, use a meat thermometer to check the temperature in the thickest part of the fillet.
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).