Imagine a dish so creamy, so perfectly seasoned, that it transforms ordinary fish fillets into a culinary masterpiece that will have your family begging for seconds. This Creamy Fish Fillet Casserole is not just a meal—it's a flavor explosion that combines the delicate texture of tender fish with a rich, tangy sauce and a crispy, golden breadcrumb topping. Whether you're a seafood lover or trying to impress dinner guests, this recipe is your ticket to becoming a kitchen superstar in just 35 minutes!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 4 fish fillets (e.g., cod or tilapia)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp dill
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a better texture during baking.
- Season the fish fillets evenly with salt, pepper, and dried dill on both sides, ensuring full flavor distribution.
- In a medium bowl, mix sour cream with lemon juice, creating a smooth and tangy base sauce for the casserole.
- Arrange the seasoned fish fillets in a single layer in the prepared baking dish, ensuring they are not overlapping.
- Pour the sour cream mixture evenly over the fish fillets, completely covering them to keep the fish moist during baking.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese generously over the top of the fish and sauce, creating a rich and golden topping.
- Distribute breadcrumbs evenly across the surface to provide a crispy, crunchy texture when baked.
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set and flavors to meld.
- Garnish with fresh dill or parsley if desired, and serve hot with a side of steamed vegetables or rice.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Fish: Select firm white fish like cod or tilapia for the best results. Always pat the fillets dry to ensure a perfect bake.
- Temperature Matters: Make sure your oven is fully preheated to 375°F for even cooking and that golden-brown finish.
- Don't Overcook: Fish cooks quickly. Watch for the moment when it becomes opaque and flakes easily—this prevents dry, tough fish.
- Customize Your Topping: Experiment with different cheese blends or add some panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
- Make It Ahead: You can prepare this casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
- Serve Immediately: The casserole is best enjoyed hot, right out of the oven when the cheese is melted and the breadcrumbs are crispy.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 176kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 30mg
