Creamy Gluten-Free Fish Pie Recipe

Becky avatarPublished by | Last updated 30th January, 2025
⏲️Prep Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
🙏Rating:

There is something supremely comforting about this gluten-free fish pie recipe. It is easy to make and so delicious.

I am gilled (get it?) to share my favourite gluten-free fish pie recipe. It’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for any season. Whether you’re cosying up on a chilly evening or enjoying a light summer dinner, this pie hits the spot.

I love it at any time of the year as it pairs well with a salad and white wine for the summer and chunky garlic bread and red wine for the winter. Perfect. Let’s dive in!

gluten-free fish pie

What you’ll love about this recipe

It’s completely gluten-free. so you can enjoy it without worry. This delectable dish is perfect for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. Every mouthful is safe and delicious, allowing you to savour the rich flavours without any dietary concerns. The carefully selected ingredients ensure a worry-free meal that doesn’t compromise on taste or texture.

The gluten-free fish pie sauce creamy cheese sauce is absolutely scrumptious. Crafted with a perfect blend of gluten-free flour, fresh milk, and high-quality cheese, this sauce is a true culinary masterpiece.

Its velvety smooth consistency and rich, comforting flavor will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. Each spoonful is a delightful journey of creamy, cheesy goodness that elevates the entire dish.

You can use any type of fish you fancy. From succulent salmon to delicate cod, from flaky haddock to tender white fish, this recipe is wonderfully versatile. Mix and match your favourite seafood to create a personalized pie that suits your palate.

The flexible recipe allows you to experiment with different fish combinations, ensuring a unique and exciting meal every time you prepare it.

It’s easy to make, even for beginners. With simple step-by-step instructions and minimal technical cooking skills required, this gluten-free fish pie is accessible to everyone. Even those with limited culinary experience can confidently create a restaurant-quality dish in their own kitchen.

The straightforward preparation process ensures success and builds cooking confidence with each attempt.

The crispy potato topping is simply irresistible. Golden brown, perfectly seasoned, and wonderfully crunchy, the potato layer transforms this pie into a truly spectacular dish. Each bite offers a delightful contrast between the creamy filling and the crisp, buttery top. The carefully prepared potato topping adds a magnificent texture that elevates the entire eating experience, making it a true comfort food masterpiece.

gluten free fish pie

Ingredients

Fish: You’ll need about 100g of fish fillets. I used smoked haddock but feel free to use your favourite fish.

Vegetable: One medium onion, finely chopped, and 75g of frozen peas add lovely flavour and texture.

Potatoes: Four large potatoes will create the perfect topping for your pie.

Cheese sauce: You’ll need 100g of grated cheddar cheese, 250ml of milk, and a teaspoon of cornflour to make the creamy sauce.

Seasoning: A teaspoon of Italian herbs, plus salt and black pepper to taste, will bring all the flavours together.

gluten free fish pie

Instructions

Start by peeling and quartering your potatoes. Pop them in a pot to boil for about 20 minutes. Once they’re done drain and mash them up and set to one side to cool.

While the potatoes are cooking, prepare your fish. Lay the fillets in an oven-proof dish. Fry your chopped onion on low heat for about five minutes in some olive oil then add it to the fish along with the frozen peas.

Now for the cheese sauce! Make a paste with the cornflour and a bit of milk in a pan. Add the rest of the milk, stirring well. Heat it slowly over medium heat, stirring all the time. When it’s warm, add the cheese bit by bit, stirring until it’s all melted and the sauce is thick.

Pour your lovely cheese sauce over the fish. Season with salt and pepper. If you are a fan you could add a tsp of dijon mustard. Then, top it all with your mashed potatoes. Sprinkle with a tbsp of herbs and a bit more cheese if you’re feeling indulgent.

Put your oven-proof dish onto a baking tray and pop it in the oven at 200°C (gas mark 6) for about 45 minutes. When it’s golden and bubbling, it’s ready to serve!

What to serve with Gluten-Free Fish Pie

This fish pie is quite filling on its own, but I love to serve it with some green vegetables on the side. Steamed broccoli or green beans work a treat.

If you’re serving it in the summer, a crisp salad with some fresh parsley makes a lovely light accompaniment. In the winter, why not add some chunky gluten-free garlic bread for extra comfort?

And don’t forget the drinks! A chilled white wine goes beautifully with this pie in the summer, while a glass of red feels just right on a cold evening. Cheers!

gluten free fish pie

Are you ready to try my gluten-free fish pie recipe? Then let’s get started:

gluten-free fish pie

Creamy Gluten-Free Fish Pie Recipe

Avatar for BeckyBecky Terrell
There is something supremely comforting about this gluten-free fish pie recipe. It is easy to make and so delicious. Succulent fish, creamy cheese sauce and good old mashed potatoes. I love it at any time of the year as it pairs well with a salad and white wine for the summer and chunky garlic bread and red wine for the winter. Perfect. 
5 from 1 vote
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine English
Servings 2 people
Calories 706 kcal

Equipment

Ingredients
 
 

  • 100 g Fillets of fresh fish (I used 2 smoked haddock)
  • 1 Medium onion finely chopped
  • 4 Large potatoes
  • 75 g Frozen peas, defrosted (3 ounces)

For the cheese sauce

  • 100 g Cheddar cheese, grated (3.5 oz)
  • 250 ml Milk (half a pint)
  • 1 Teaspoon of cornflour
  • 1 Teaspoon Italian herbs
  • Pinch Salt & Pepper

Instructions
 

  • Peel and quarter the potatoes and preheat the oven to 200c (gas 6).
  • Boil the potatoes for around twenty minutes, then mash them and allow them to cool.
  • Lay the fish fillets in an oven-proof dish.
  • Finely chop and fry the onion for about five minutes.
  • Add the onions to the fish.
  • Add the frozen peas to the fish.
  • Grate the cheese.

How to make the cheese sauce

  • Make a paste from the corn flour and a little milk in a pan. Then add the rest of the milk stirring well.
  • Heat the milk and cornflour mixture slowly stirring constantly.
  • When you see the milk heating up add the cheese in handfuls and keep stirring until all the cheese has melted and the sauce becomes thick.
  • Add the cheese sauce to the fish add salt and pepper ( you can also add a tsp of dijion mustard if you like it.)
  • Top with the mashed potatoes, sprinkle with herbs, and a little more cheese if you wish.
  • Cook in an oven at 200c (gas 6) for around forty five minutes.
  • Serve with green vegetables.

Nutrition

Calories: 706kcalCarbohydrates: 93gProtein: 36gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 87mgSodium: 433mgPotassium: 2410mgFiber: 13gSugar: 14gVitamin A: 1035IUVitamin C: 104mgCalcium: 601mgIron: 4mg
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gluten free fish pie finished

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Gluten-Free fish Pie tips

Here are some tips to help you make the most out of this recipe:

Fresh Herbs and Spices

Use fresh herbs and spices to enhance the flavour of the fish pie. This adds depth without introducing gluten. Common gluten-free options include parsley, dill, chives, garlic, and paprika.

Gluten-Free Sauces

If you prefer a lighter sauce or want a break from dairy you can use a tin of tomatoes and herbs instead of the cheese sauce.

Check the Fish

Ensure the fish you’re using is fresh and hasn’t been processed with any gluten-containing additives. If using canned fish, check the label to confirm it’s gluten-free.

Ingredient Selection

  • Use a mix of fish like salmon, haddock, and cod for a varied flavour
  • Choose gluten-free flour alternatives for thickening, such as cornflour
  • Opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs if you want a crispy topping

Preparation Techniques

  • Poach fish in milk first to create a flavorful base for the sauce.
  • Use herbs like parsley, bay leaf, or Italian herbs to enhance flavour.
  • Consider adding eggs and prawns for extra texture and protein.

Sauce and Topping

  • To make a creamy fish pie cheese sauce use cornflour as a gluten-free thickener and some cheddar cheese.
  • Use mashed potatoes as a traditional topping, seasoned with herbs.
  • For added nutrition, mix in vegetables like peas, spinach, or artichokes.

Dietary Adaptations

  • Easily make the pie dairy-free by using alternative milk and margarine.
  • Experiment with different potato varieties like russet or Yukon gold.

Cooking Tips

  • Bake your gf fish pie at 180-200°C for approximately 40-45 minutes
  • Let the pie rest for 5 minutes after cooking to set the filling
  • Serve with green vegetables or a crisp salad for a complete meal

Pro tip: For extra flavour, sprinkle additional cheese or herbs on top before baking.

Avoid Cross-Contamination

If you’re preparing the fish pie’s main ingredients in a kitchen that is not entirely gluten-free, take precautions to avoid cross-contamination. Use separate utensils, cutting boards, and cooking surfaces to prevent gluten from coming into contact with the ingredients.

gluten free fish pie on table

If you are looking for the perfect drink to pair with this fish-based recipe, then you should try it with some Champagne.

If you have some potatoes left over, then why not try my gluten-free leek and potato soup recipe? If you are a fan of fish and you are looking for a healthy and delicious fish-based recipe, then you must check out my gluten-free chilli trout traybake.

gluten free fish pie

Frequently asked questions

Does fish pie contain gluten?

This fish pie recipe is designed to be gluten-free. The main ingredients—fresh fish, potatoes, peas, and a cheese sauce made with cornflour—do not contain gluten. However, it’s essential to ensure that all ingredients are free from gluten-containing additives.

When preparing your fish pie, check the labels on any processed items, like the fish or cheese, to confirm they are gluten-free. Additionally, take care to avoid cross-contamination if you’re cooking in a kitchen that also handles gluten-containing foods.

By following these guidelines, you can enjoy a delicious fish pie without any gluten worries!

What is a substitute for double cream in fish pie?

If you’re looking for a substitute for double cream in your fish pie, there are some fantastic options that will keep your dish creamy and delicious! Here are a few ideas to consider:

  • Milk and Butter: A simple mix of 75ml of full-fat milk and 25g of butter can create a lovely creamy texture. This combo works well in cooking, giving your pie that rich flavour we all love.
  • Single Cream and Butter: You can replace 100ml of double cream with 90ml of single cream and 10g of melted butter. This will add a bit more richness, though it won’t be quite as thick as double cream.
  • Greek Yoghurt and Milk: For a slightly tangy twist, mix 50ml of Greek yoghurt with 50ml of full-fat milk. This option is great for adding creaminess without too much fat.
  • Coconut Cream: If you’re feeling adventurous and want a dairy-free alternative, try using 100ml of coconut cream. It will give your pie a lovely texture but do keep in mind it may add a hint of coconut flavour.
  • Evaporated Milk: Another easy substitute is using 100ml of evaporated milk. It’s thicker than regular milk and adds a nice creaminess to your dish.

These substitutes can help you whip up a delightful fish pie without compromising on taste or texture. Enjoy experimenting with these options!

gluten free fish pie cooking in pan

What Types of Fish Can I Use?

You can use a variety of fish in a gluten-free fish pie, such as: Salmon, Haddock, Cod, Whitefish, Smoked fish, and Prawns (optional).

How Do I Thicken the Sauce Without Gluten?

Cornflour, gluten-free plain flour and nutritional yeast.

How Long Does a Gluten-Free Fish Pie Take to Prepare?

Typically, preparation takes about 30-45 minutes, with cooking time around 40-45 minutes at 180-200°C.

Can I Freeze Gluten-Free Fish Pie?

Absolutely! Most gluten-free fish pie recipes freeze well, making them perfect for meal prep.

gluten free fish pie


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Becky Terrell ✍️

Becky avatarHi, I am Becky. I am a passionate recipe maker and having been a coeliac (celiac) for 30+ years I focus on gluten-free recipes. My blog is my online cookbook of gluten-free tasty recipes. You can follow me on X: @beckygwg
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Comments

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  • Avatar for Matilda Vanisé
    Matilda Vanisé replied on January 19, 2025:

    5 stars
    I loved this recipe, abosutely delish!


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