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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

olivia
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!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine French-style, Western
Servings 4 servings
Calories 420 kcal

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