Creamed Fish
Creamed Fish combines tender halibut with a rich, creamy sauce infused with herbs and nutmeg, topped with Parmesan cheese and bread crumbs—perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Scald the milk.
- Put onion, parsley, and thyme in a cheesecloth and cook slowly in the milk for one hour or more.
- Remove the seasoning from the milk.
- Melt the butter in a saucepan.
- Add the flour and cook for a few minutes until browned.
- Gradually add the warm milk to the butter and flour mixture, stirring constantly, with a pinch of salt, nutmeg, and the egg yolk.
- Cook the halibut with salt and lemon juice until done.
- Flake the cooked halibut.
- Layer some sauce in the bottom of a baking dish, then add a layer of flaked fish.
- Season lightly with salt and pepper, then add more sauce and fish, repeating layers as desired.
- Sprinkle the top with buttered bread crumbs and cover with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. If you don’t have halibut, any firm white fish like cod or tilapia can work well. Fresh herbs can enhance the dish; try dill as a substitute for thyme. If you want a crunchier topping, mix the buttered breadcrumbs with some crushed crackers or panko. This dish is similar to other seafood recipes, so feel free to experiment with spices.
Serving Suggestions
Creamed fish is best served hot, ideally accompanied by a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad. It pairs beautifully with Pasta And Shrimp Salad for a complete meal. Consider serving it with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce, and a glass of white wine can complement the dish nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover creamed fish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place it in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the fish tough. For best results, enjoy it fresh.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creamed Fish contains roughly 698 calories, with 49g protein, 75g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (211% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (159% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1034mg per serving (45% 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 halibut for this recipe?
Yes, frozen halibut can be used. Thaw it completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and to avoid excess moisture in the dish. Adjust the cooking time slightly as frozen fish may take a bit longer to cook through.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make creamed fish gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for thickening. Ensure that any broth or other ingredients are labeled gluten-free, as cross-contamination can occur.
What can I do if my sauce is too thick?
If the sauce becomes too thick, gradually whisk in a little more warm milk until you reach the desired consistency. This will help balance the flavors and maintain a creamy texture without compromising the dish.
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).