Emergency Fish Pie: A Quick and Comforting British Classic, re-imagined

When the cupboard is nearly bare and you need to whip up something warm and hearty, an emergency fish pie with fish fingers can be a lifesaver. 

This recipe uses simple ingredients that you likely have on hand, making it an ideal solution for those nights when you need a quick, comforting meal. 

Follow this guide to create a delicious fish pie that’ll satisfy the whole family.

Ingredients:

10-12 fish fingers

1 kg potatoes, peeled and diced

50g butter

100ml milk

1 medium onion, finely chopped

200ml double cream

200g frozen peas

100g grated cheddar cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Fish Fingers:

Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan). Place the fish fingers on a baking tray and cook them for about 10-12 minutes, or until they’re golden and crispy. Once cooked, set them aside to cool slightly before cutting them into bite-sized pieces.

2. Make the Mashed Potatoes:

While the fish fingers are cooking, place the diced potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt and bring to the boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Drain well and return them to the pot. Add the butter and milk, then mash until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. (You can cheat at this stage by using frozen mashed potatoes or using mashed potato powder, the latter being my go-to sollution!)

3. Prepare the Filling:

In a large frying pan, melt a small knob of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the double cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the frozen peas and cook for another 2-3 minutes until they’re heated through.

4. Assemble the Pie:

Add the cut fish fingers to the frying pan, gently stirring to coat them with the creamy mixture. Pour the mixture into a baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Spoon the mashed potatoes over the top, using a fork to create a textured surface. This helps to create a crispy top when baked.

5. Bake the Pie:

Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese evenly over the mashed potatoes. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling around the edges.

6. Serve:

Remove the pie from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if you like, then serve it up hot and enjoy!

Tips:

Customise Your Pie: Add sweetcorn or other vegetables you have on hand for extra flavour and nutrition.

Make it Extra Creamy: If you prefer a creamier pie, increase the amount of double cream or add a splash of milk to the filling.

Cheese Lover’s Delight: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or a sharp cheddar for a unique twist.

This emergency fish pie is perfect for those evenings when time is short, but you still crave a hearty, homemade meal. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a dish that’s sure to become a family favourite. Enjoy!

How to Make an Economical but Tasty Fish Pie

Fish pie is a classic British dish that combines comforting mashed potatoes with delicious fish in a creamy sauce. 

It’s a great way to serve a hearty meal that doesn't break the bank. 

Here’s how to make an economical but tasty fish pie that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients

For the filling:

500g mixed white fish and smoked haddock (look for frozen or offcuts to save money)

300ml milk

1 onion, finely chopped

2 carrots, diced

1 celery stick, diced

2 tablespoons plain flour

50g butter

100g peas (frozen is fine)

1 tablespoon parsley, chopped

Salt and pepper to taste

For the mash:

1kg potatoes, peeled and chopped

50g butter

100ml milk

Salt and pepper to taste

Method

Prepare the Potatoes: Start by boiling the potatoes in a large pot of salted water until they are tender, about 15-20 minutes.

Cook the Fish: While the potatoes are cooking, place the fish in a large saucepan and cover with the milk. Gently bring to a simmer and cook for about 5-7 minutes until the fish is just cooked through. Remove the fish with a slotted spoon and set aside. Reserve the milk.

Make the Sauce: In another saucepan, melt the butter over a medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery, and cook until softened, about 10 minutes. Stir in the flour and cook for another minute. Gradually add the reserved milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper.

Combine Fish and Sauce: Flake the cooked fish into bite-sized pieces and add to the sauce along with the peas and parsley. Stir gently to combine.

Mash the Potatoes: Drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter and milk, then mash until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

Assemble the Pie: Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan)/Gas Mark 6. Spoon the fish mixture into an ovenproof dish. Top with the mashed potatoes, spreading them out evenly. Use a fork to create a pattern on the surface of the mash.

Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden and crispy.

Serve: Let the fish pie cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple green salad.

Tips for Economical Cooking

Buy Frozen Fish: Frozen fish is often cheaper than fresh and just as nutritious. Look for mixed fish packs or fish pie mixes that are budget-friendly.

Use Offcuts: Fishmongers often sell offcuts of fish at a reduced price. These pieces are perfect for a fish pie where the fish is flaked and mixed into a sauce.

Bulk Out with Vegetables: Adding plenty of vegetables like carrots, peas, and celery not only makes the dish healthier but also stretches the fish further, making the meal more economical.

Batch Cook: Fish pie freezes well, so consider making a larger batch and freezing portions for future meals. This saves time and money in the long run.

Fish pie is a versatile and comforting dish that can be made economically without compromising on taste. By following these tips and the recipe, you’ll be able to serve up a delicious meal that will satisfy the whole family. Enjoy!