Creamy Salmon & Cheesy Potato Casserole
Indulge in this hearty and satisfying Creamy Salmon & Cheesy Potato Casserole, perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner. The combination of tender salmon fillets and luscious potatoes layered in a creamy cheese and mustard sauce creates a dish that's both comforting and flavorful. Fresh garlic and a hint of chili add just the right amount of zing, while the addition of parsley brings a touch of brightness. Bake until bubbly and golden brown for a meal that's sure to impress. Give it a try and enjoy the delicious harmony of flavors!
N/A
Servings
400
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
Salmon fillets
2 (cubed)
Large potatoes
5 (peeled and sliced)
Garlic cloves
2 (finely chopped or minced)
Red chili
1 (finely chopped)
Strong cheddar cheese
to taste (finely grated)
Strong mustard
2 (tablespoons)
Milk
to consistency (as needed for the sauce)
Cornflour
to thicken (as needed for the sauce)
Salt
to taste (as needed)
Black pepper
to taste (as needed)
Fresh parsley
to garnish (finely chopped)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).
2
Start by peeling and rinsing the large potatoes. Slice them into thin rounds, about 0.5 cm thick.
3
Place the sliced potatoes in a saucepan and cover with lightly salted boiling water. Parboil for approximately 10 minutes or until just tender; do not fully cook.
4
Meanwhile, rinse the salmon fillets and cut them into bite-sized cubes.
5
Once the potatoes are parboiled, drain them and layer half of the potato slices in a large oven-proof dish, slightly overlapping them.
6
Sprinkle the cubed salmon evenly over the potato layer, followed by a pinch of salt and black pepper. Layer the remaining potato slices on top, overlapping them again.
7
In a saucepan, heat milk on medium until it reaches a gentle boil.
8
While the milk is heating, grate the strong cheddar cheese and prepare the cornflour by mixing it with a small amount of milk to create a smooth paste.
9
Once the milk is boiling, gradually stir in the cornflour paste, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Continue this process until the sauce thickens.
10
Lower the heat and add the minced garlic, chopped red chili, mustard, grated cheddar cheese, and fresh parsley to the thickened sauce. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.
11
Simmer the sauce for another 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors meld. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
12
Pour the creamy sauce over the layered potatoes and salmon, ensuring even coverage. Top with an additional layer of grated parmesan cheese.
13
Bake in the preheated oven for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and crispy. If desired, use the grill function briefly at the end to achieve a perfectly crisp top.
14
Once cooked, remove from the oven, garnish with extra parsley, and allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition Information
23
Fat
27
Carbs
33
Protein
3.3
Fiber
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Salmon & Cheesy Potato Casserole?
It is a hearty dish featuring tender salmon fillets and sliced potatoes layered in a rich sauce made from milk, strong cheddar cheese, mustard, garlic, and chili.
What kind of potatoes should I use for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 5 large potatoes. Generally, starchy or all-purpose potatoes like Maris Piper or Russets work best for casseroles.
Do I need to peel the potatoes?
Yes, for the best texture, the instructions recommend peeling and rinsing the potatoes before slicing.
How thick should I slice the potatoes?
The potatoes should be sliced into thin rounds approximately 0.5 cm thick.
Why do the potatoes need to be parboiled?
Parboiling for about 10 minutes ensures the potatoes become fully tender during the baking process without having to overcook the salmon.
Can I use frozen salmon fillets?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but ensure they are completely thawed and patted dry before cubing them.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F) for the best results.
How long does the casserole take to bake?
The dish typically takes between 1.5 to 2 hours to bake until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden.
How do I make the creamy cheese sauce?
Heat milk to a boil, stir in a cornflour paste to thicken, then add garlic, chili, mustard, cheddar cheese, and parsley until smooth.
What role does cornflour play in this recipe?
Cornflour acts as a thickening agent to turn the milk into a luscious, creamy sauce that coats the salmon and potatoes.
Is this dish very spicy?
The dish has a mild zing from one red chili and strong mustard, but it is generally considered more flavorful than hot.
Can I substitute the red chili?
If you prefer no heat, you can omit the chili or replace it with a finely chopped red bell pepper for color.
What kind of mustard is best?
The recipe suggests a 'strong mustard,' so English mustard or a sharp Dijon would be excellent choices.
How many calories are in a serving?
There are approximately 400 calories per serving of this casserole.
What is the protein content of this dish?
Each serving provides about 33 grams of protein, primarily from the salmon and cheese.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The recipe uses cornflour for thickening, which is naturally gluten-free. Ensure your mustard and other processed ingredients are certified gluten-free if needed.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
While strong cheddar and parmesan are recommended for their sharp flavor, you could substitute with Gruyère or Fontina for a different profile.
How do I prevent the sauce from being lumpy?
Mix the cornflour with a small amount of cold milk first to create a smooth paste before adding it to the boiling milk while whisking continuously.
How do I layer the ingredients?
Layer half the potatoes, then all the salmon cubes, followed by seasoning, and finally the remaining potatoes on top.
How do I get a crispy top on the casserole?
Top the dish with parmesan cheese before baking. If it's not crispy enough at the end, use the oven's grill function for a few minutes.
What is the fat content per serving?
This dish contains approximately 23 grams of fat per serving.
Can I use dried parsley instead of fresh?
Fresh parsley provides a brighter flavor, but you can use 1/3 the amount of dried parsley if fresh is unavailable.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
Can I freeze this casserole?
While you can freeze it, the texture of the potatoes and the cream-based sauce may change slightly upon thawing.
How do I know when the potatoes are done?
The potatoes are done when they can be easily pierced with a fork or knife through the layers of the casserole.
Why should the dish rest before serving?
Resting for a few minutes allows the sauce to thicken slightly and set, making it easier to serve clean portions.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This is a complete meal on its own, but a light green salad or steamed green beans would complement the richness of the dish.
Can I add more vegetables to the layers?
Yes, baby spinach or thin slices of leek would make excellent additions to the salmon layer.
Is this dish suitable for a family dinner?
Absolutely, its hearty nature and comforting flavors make it a crowd-pleaser for both adults and children.
What should I do if the top browns too quickly?
If the top is golden but the potatoes aren't tender yet, cover the dish loosely with foil and continue baking.