Cheesy Fish Bake
A comforting baked fish dish with creamy cheese, peas, and rice, ideal for family dinners or quick weeknight meals packed with flavor and wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Thaw the fish and cut fillets into 1-inch pieces.
- In a 1 1/2-quart casserole, stir together the process cheese spread and milk.
- Stir in the peas, rice, dill weed, and fish.
- Cover and bake in a 375°F oven for 40 to 45 minutes or until heated through.
- Stir once or twice during baking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a tablespoon of sour cream to the cheese spread mixture. If you want a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. You can substitute the fish with any mild white fish like tilapia or flounder. To save time, use instant rice instead of quick cooking rice, but adjust the liquid accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cheesy Fish Bake with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Gourmet Potato Salad or Soft Bread Sticks to complement the creamy fish. For a light dessert, consider serving Cherry Frozen Salad after this hearty dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil, warming in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Fish Bake contains roughly 397 calories, with 12g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (151% of the Daily Value), iron (70% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (66% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 cheese spread?
Yes, you can substitute the pasteurized process cheese spread with a different cheese spread or even a homemade cheese sauce. Just ensure it's creamy to maintain the texture of the dish.
Is there a way to make this dish healthier?
Absolutely! You can use brown rice instead of quick cooking rice for added fiber. Additionally, consider using less cheese spread or a reduced-fat version to lighten the dish without sacrificing flavor.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it heats through completely.
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).