Creamy Fish on Potato Gratin Recipe – A Comforting One-Pan Meal

looking for a comforting, restaurant-quality meal that’s surprisingly simple to make, this Creamy Fish on Potato Gratin is calling your name! 🍽️ Imagine tender, flaky fish nestled in a bed of buttery, garlicky potatoes with a golden, crunchy parmesan topping. Oh, and did I mention the rich, creamy sauce infused with white wine and leeks? Trust me, this one’s a game-changer!

This dish brings all the cozy vibes of a classic French-style gratin but with the added bonus of perfectly cooked fish. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just want to elevate your weeknight dinner, this recipe is a must-try.


Why You’ll Love Creamy Fish on Potato Gratin

  • Flavors That Wow – Buttery leeks, garlicky potatoes, tender fish, and a crunchy golden topping? Yes, please!
  • Surprisingly Simple – No fancy techniques required, just layer, bake, and enjoy.
  • Perfect for Entertaining – It looks elegant and tastes incredible, but it’s easy enough for a casual family dinner.
  • One-Pan Wonder – Less cleanup, more flavor!

🍷 Love rich, comforting dishes like this? You might also enjoy learning about the differences between Marsala and Piccata—two classic sauces that take poultry and seafood to the next level! 👉👉What’s the Difference Between Marsala and Piccata?….


Ingredients Creamy Fish on Potato Gratin

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this Creamy Fish on Potato Gratin—the ultimate comfort food with a gourmet touch! The full ingredient list with measurements is in the recipe card below.

A flat-lay image of fresh ingredients for Creamy Fish on Potato Gratin, including potatoes, leeks, fish fillets, parmesan, breadcrumbs, butter, heavy cream, white wine, and vegetable stock, all arranged on a wooden kitchen counter.
The secret to rich and comforting flavors? Fresh, high-quality ingredients! Here’s everything you need for the perfect Creamy Fish on Potato Gratin.

For the Potato Gratin:

  • Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and depth to the dish.
  • Leeks (or Onions) – Sautéed for a mild, sweet onion flavor.
  • Garlic – Because everything is better with garlic!
  • Starchy Potatoes – The base of the gratin, becoming soft and creamy as they bake.
  • Salt & Black Pepper – Enhances the natural flavors.
  • Dry White Wine – Adds a subtle tangy depth (or use vegetable broth as a substitute).
  • Vegetable Stock/Broth – Helps tenderize the potatoes and build flavor.
  • Heavy Cream – The key to that luxuriously creamy sauce.

For the Crunchy Topping:

  • Panko Breadcrumbs – For that crispy, golden finish.
  • Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Helps the breadcrumbs get beautifully golden.
  • Parmesan Cheese – Adds an irresistible umami, salty crunch.

For the Fish:

  • White Fish Fillets – Mild, flaky, and perfect for soaking up all those flavors.
  • Salt & Pepper – Keeps it simple and flavorful.

🍣 If you love seafood, why not explore another delicious way to enjoy fish? Check out this guide on Salmon Nigiri, a classic sushi favorite packed with fresh flavors! 👉👉All About Salmon Nigiri – A Complete Guide….


How to Make Creamy Fish on Potato Gratin

Prep & Preheat

A home cook slicing potatoes into thin rounds on a wooden cutting board, with a bowl of water nearby for soaking. In the background, an oven preheats for cooking the dish.
Before the magic happens, prep is key! 🥔✨ Slicing the potatoes thinly ensures a creamy, evenly cooked gratin. Don’t forget to preheat the oven!
  • Preheat your oven to 180°C/350°F (160°C fan) and position a rack in the middle.

Prep the Potatoes

  • Cut the potatoes into quarters, then slice them thinly (about 4mm / 1/6″).
  • Place them in a bowl of water to prevent browning and remove excess starch.
  • Drain before using.

Make the Crunchy Topping

Hands mixing panko breadcrumbs, parmesan, and olive oil in a bowl to create a crispy, golden topping for the gratin. A wooden spoon stirs the mixture.
The secret to that perfect crispy topping? A mix of panko, parmesan, and olive oil—golden, crunchy, and absolutely irresistible!
  • Mix panko breadcrumbs and olive oil in a bowl.
  • Stir in the parmesan and set aside.

Season the Fish

  • Pat the fish fillets dry and sprinkle both sides with salt and pepper.

Sauté the Leeks & Garlic

Leeks and minced garlic sizzling in melted butter in a skillet, with steam rising as they soften and become fragrant.
Sautéing leeks and garlic in butter creates a rich, aromatic base for the dish. This step fills your kitchen with the most incredible smell!
  • In a large oven-proof skillet (30cm/12″), melt butter over high heat until foamy.
  • Add leeks (or onions) and garlic and cook for 3 minutes until softened.

Cook the Potatoes

  • Add the potatoes, salt, and pepper to the skillet.
  • Cook for 6 minutes, stirring regularly—the potatoes should be halfway cooked.

Reduce the Wine & Stock

  • Pour in white wine, simmer rapidly until mostly evaporated (about 1 minute).
  • Add the vegetable stock, then simmer for 1½ minutes until reduced by half.

Assemble & Bake

  • Turn off the heat and place the fish fillets on top of the potatoes.
  • Pour the heavy cream all over, ensuring full coverage.
  • Sprinkle the panko topping evenly over the dish.
  • Bake for 30 minutes—don’t worry, the fish will stay juicy!

Broil for the Perfect Golden Crust

A creamy fish and potato gratin under the broiler, with a golden brown, crispy parmesan topping bubbling slightly.
The final step to perfection—broiling for a golden, crispy crust! Just a few minutes under high heat, and this dish is ready to impress.
  • Switch to broil (grill) on high and move the skillet to the top oven shelf.
  • Grill for 4 minutes until the topping is beautifully golden and crispy.

Rest & Serve!

  • Let the dish rest for (5 ) minutes before serving.
  • Enjoy each bite with creamy potatoes, crispy topping, and tender fish all together!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Fish on Potato Gratin

  • Use the Right Potatoes – Starchy potatoes work best (like Russets or Yukon Golds) for that perfect creamy texture.
  • Don’t Skip the Broil! – This step ensures the topping gets golden and crispy.
  • Want More Crunch? – Add an extra sprinkle of parmesan before broiling.
  • Make It Dairy-Free – Swap heavy cream for coconut cream or cashew cream.

How to Serve Creamy Fish on Potato Gratin

This dish is comfort food at its finest, and here’s how to serve it:

  • With a Side Salad – A fresh green salad balances the richness.
  • With Roasted Veggies – Asparagus, green beans, or Brussels sprouts are great options.

🥦 Looking for the perfect side to serve with this gratin? This Vegetable Tray Guide will help you create a colorful and delicious veggie platter to complement your meal! 👉👉Vegetable Tray Guide…..

  • With a Glass of White Wine – Since we’re using white wine in the sauce, pair it with the same variety!Creamy Fish on Potato Gratin.

🍋 Want to try another elegant seafood dish? Check out this Classic Piccata Guide—a simple yet bold recipe featuring a lemony, buttery sauce that pairs beautifully with fish or chicken! 👉👉👉Piccata Classic Guide……


Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to -3- days.

Freezing Creamy Fish on Potato Gratin

  • Freeze in a sealed, freezer-safe dish for up to 2 months.

🦀 Want to impress your guests with another luxurious seafood dish? Try this unique Crab Brûlée Recipe—a rich, creamy seafood delight with a perfectly caramelized top!👉👉Crab Brûlée Recipe…..

  • Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating Creamy Fish on Potato Gratin

  • Reheat in the oven at 180°C/350°F for 15 minutes, or until warmed through.

FAQs Creamy Fish on Potato Gratin

Can I use a different type of fish?

Yes! Any mild, white fish like cod, haddock, or halibut will work beautifully.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble everything except the topping, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add the topping just before baking.Creamy Fish on Potato Gratin.

What can I use instead of white wine?

You can replace it with more vegetable stock or a splash of lemon juice for acidity.

🍷 If you love creamy, tangy sauces, you’ll also enjoy Piccata Sauce—a classic, buttery, lemon-based sauce that’s perfect for fish and chicken dishes!👉👉What Is Piccata Sauce Made Of?….

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed almonds for the topping.


This Creamy Fish on Potato Gratin is creamy, crispy, and bursting with flavor—the ultimate one-pan meal for any occasion! Try it once, and I guarantee it’ll become a new favorite. Let me know if you make it!

Print
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A plated serving of Creamy Fish on Potato Gratin with a golden, crispy topping. The layers of potatoes and tender fish are visible, served on a rustic wooden table with a glass of white wine in the background.

Creamy Fish on Potato Gratin Recipe – A Comforting One-Pan Meal

  • Author: olivia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Dinner, Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: French-style, Western
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Creamy Fish on Potato Gratin is the perfect blend of tender, flaky fish layered over garlicky, buttery potatoes, all baked in a rich, creamy sauce and topped with a golden, crispy parmesan crust. A comforting, one-pan meal that’s both elegant and easy to make!


Ingredients

For the Potato Gratin:

  • Unsalted butter – Adds richness and depth.
  • Leeks (or onions) – Mild sweetness to complement the creaminess.
  • Garlic – Enhances the flavor with a fragrant touch.
  • Starchy potatoes – The base of the gratin, becoming soft and creamy as they bake.
  • Salt & black pepper – Essential seasonings.
  • Dry white wine – Adds a subtle depth of flavor (or substitute with more vegetable broth).
  • Vegetable stock – Helps tenderize the potatoes and build flavor.
  • Heavy cream – The key to that luxuriously creamy sauce.

For the Crunchy Topping:

  • Panko breadcrumbs – Creates a light, crispy texture.
  • Extra virgin olive oil – Helps toast the breadcrumbs to golden perfection.
  • Parmesan cheese – Adds an umami, salty crunch.

For the Fish:

  • White fish fillets – Mild, flaky, and perfect for soaking up the rich flavors.
  • Salt & pepper – Simple seasonings to enhance the fish.

Instructions

1️⃣ Preheat & Prep:

  • Preheat oven to 180°C/350°F (160°C fan).
  • Slice potatoes thinly and soak them in water to prevent browning.

2️⃣ Make the Crunchy Topping:

  • Mix panko breadcrumbs, parmesan, and olive oil in a bowl. Set aside.

3️⃣ Sauté the Aromatics:

  • Melt butter in an ovenproof skillet.
  • Add leeks (or onions) and garlic, sautéing for 3 minutes.

4️⃣ Cook the Potatoes:

  • Add potatoes, salt, and pepper, cooking for 6 minutes while stirring.

5️⃣ Reduce the Wine & Stock:

  • Pour in white wine, simmer until mostly evaporated.
  • Add vegetable stock, simmer for 1½ minutes.

6️⃣ Assemble & Bake:

  • Turn off heat and place fish fillets on top of the potatoes.
  • Pour heavy cream all over.
  • Sprinkle panko topping evenly.
  • Bake for 30 minutes until bubbling.

7️⃣ Broil for the Perfect Golden Crust:

  • Switch oven to broil/grill on high for 4 minutes until topping is golden.

8️⃣ Rest & Serve:

  • Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Best Potatoes: Use starchy potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold) for a creamy texture.
  • Want More Crunch? Sprinkle extra parmesan before broiling.
  • Make It Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 420 kcal per serving
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 480mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg

Keywords: creamy fish gratin, fish and potato bake, one-pan fish dish, baked fish with cream, French-style gratin, comfort food recipe, seafood casserole