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Classic Cod Au Gratin with Creamy Potatoes

80 min 6 servings Medium
Cod au gratin is a beloved classic in many coastal Canadian homes, offering a comforting combination of creamy sauce, tender potatoes, and flakey cod. This dish is perfect for those who enjoy a blend of seafood and hearty ingredients, presented in a warming casserole that suits any family dinner or gathering. Our version retains the traditional elements that make cod au gratin so inviting, with layers of thinly sliced potatoes and rich béchamel sauce, topped with a golden crust of cheese and breadcrumbs. Ideal for seafood lovers and those looking to explore classic Canadian cuisine, this recipe is straightforward yet full of flavour.

Ingredients

Servings
6

For the béchamel sauce

For the gratin

Instructions

1

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2

Make the béchamel sauce

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Add salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.

Pro tip: Ensure the sauce is smooth by whisking continuously.

3

Prepare the baking dish

Lightly grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.

Pro tip: Use butter or non-stick spray for greasing.

4

Layer the ingredients

Layer half of the potatoes in the baking dish. Add half of the cod, then pour over half of the béchamel sauce. Repeat layers with remaining potatoes, cod, and sauce.

Pro tip: Overlap potato slices slightly for even coverage.

5

Add cheese and breadcrumbs

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs evenly on top.

Pro tip: For extra flavour, mix breadcrumbs with a little melted butter.

6

Bake the gratin

Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and potatoes are tender. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Pro tip: Check doneness by inserting a knife into the potatoes; it should slide easily.

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Tips & Tricks

  • Use fresh Atlantic cod for the best flavour.
  • Ensure potatoes are thinly sliced for even cooking.
  • Let the dish rest before serving for optimal creaminess.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this cod au gratin with a side of steamed green beans or a crisp green salad to balance the dish's richness. It pairs wonderfully with a chilled white wine, such as Chardonnay, enhancing the creamy and cheesy notes. For make-ahead convenience, prepare the dish up to the baking step and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake as directed and enjoy freshly baked. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.