Fisherman’s Pie: A Beloved Irish Comfort Food Classic

As a passionate home cook, I’m always searching for innovative ways to bring the bounty of the ocean to our dinner table. Here in the Cagle home, fish is a staple, and after a while, even the most cherished recipes can start to feel a bit “same old, same old.” That’s precisely why I embarked on a journey to master the art of Fisherman’s Pie. Interestingly, my husband James, a quintessential American from the South, had never even heard of this delightful dish before I introduced it to him. It just goes to show how culinary traditions vary, as this is a truly classic Irish staple!

Side on shot of a dish of fish pie, with a scoop missing. — Fisherman’s Pie

Fisherman’s Pie isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out, making it perfect for a chilly evening or a celebratory gathering. I especially love preparing this savory pie for St. Patrick’s Day, as it truly embodies the spirit of traditional Irish cooking. While the traditional recipe often includes peas and carrots, which I believe truly elevate the dish, I’ve learned to adapt for my family. With two incredibly picky eaters at home who turn their noses at even a glimpse of a vegetable, I often have to get creative! But don’t worry, I’ll share how you can easily incorporate them, or leave them out, depending on your household’s preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Classic Fisherman’s Pie

Fisherman’s Pie is more than just a dish; it’s a culinary hug. Here’s why this recipe will quickly become a cherished favorite in your kitchen:

A Taste of Ireland: This recipe is a genuine nod to traditional Irish cuisine. You’ll often find variations of it gracing the menus of authentic Irish pubs, known for its hearty and comforting appeal. It brings a piece of European culinary history right to your dining table, offering a delicious escape to the Emerald Isle.
Unmatched Comfort Food: Imagine a rich, creamy, savory seafood filling, perfectly seasoned and nestled under a cloud of golden, fluffy mashed potatoes. This dish defines comfort. It’s perfect for those evenings when you crave something deeply satisfying and warming, offering a delightful blend of textures and flavors that soothe the soul.
The Seafood Twist on a Classic: Often compared to Shepherd’s Pie (which traditionally uses lamb) or Cottage Pie (made with beef), Fisherman’s Pie takes that beloved concept and elevates it with the delicate flavors of the sea. Instead of a meat-based gravy, you’ll enjoy a luscious, creamy sauce brimming with fresh fish and shrimp, creating a truly unique and irresistible experience. It’s a wonderful alternative for seafood lovers or when you simply want to try something different from the usual meat pies.
Surprisingly Simple to Master: Despite its impressive appearance and rich flavor profile, this Fisherman’s Pie recipe is surprisingly straightforward to prepare. The steps are intuitive, making it accessible for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. You’ll be amazed at how easily you can create such an elegant and flavorful meal.
Versatility at its Best: One of the greatest advantages of Fisherman’s Pie is its adaptability. Whether you prefer a mix of various white fish, crave the sweetness of shrimp, or want to experiment with different vegetables and seasonings, this recipe provides a fantastic foundation. It’s easy to customize to suit dietary preferences, available ingredients, or simply your mood.

Essential Ingredients for Your Fisherman’s Pie

Ingredients needed to make a fishermans pie, with text overlay.

Creating an exceptional Fisherman’s Pie starts with selecting quality ingredients. While the full list with precise quantities can be found in the detailed recipe card below, here’s a glimpse into the key components that make this dish shine. Remember, the fresher your seafood, the more exquisite your pie will taste. Opt for firm, white fish fillets and plump, fresh shrimp for the best results. Don’t underestimate the power of a good seafood stock to infuse depth into your creamy sauce, and for the potato topping, choose starchy potatoes like Yukon Golds for that perfectly smooth and luxurious mash.

Step-by-Step Fisherman’s Pie Recipe Instructions

This section provides a visual and textual overview of the recipe steps. For the most detailed instructions and precise measurements, please refer to the complete recipe card located at the bottom of this post.

Potatoes cut and ready to boil in water. — **Step 1:** Begin by peeling and cutting your yellow potatoes into uniform pieces. Place them in a large pot and cover with cold, generously salted water, ensuring the water level is about 2 inches above the potatoes. The salt in the water not only seasons the potatoes from within but also helps them cook evenly. Bring to a boil and cook until they are perfectly fork-tender, typically 15-20 minutes depending on the size of your potato pieces.

Cooked potatoes placed in a mixing bowl. — **Step 2:** Once cooked, drain the potatoes thoroughly. Transfer the hot, drained potatoes to the bowl of a stand mixer. Using a wire whip attachment, beat the potatoes on medium speed until they become beautifully light and creamy. The heat from the potatoes will help them absorb liquids better in the next step, ensuring a smooth and lump-free topping.

A measuring jug with milk and butter. — **Step 3:** In a separate small saucepan or microwave-safe jug, gently heat the butter and milk together until the butter is melted and the mixture is warmed through. This prevents cooling down your potatoes and helps the fats integrate smoothly into the mash, resulting in a rich and flavorful topping.

Melted butter and milk being poured into some creamed potatoes. — **Step 4:** While the potatoes are still whipping in the mixer, slowly pour in the warmed milk and butter mixture. Continue to beat until everything is fully combined and the mashed potatoes are incredibly creamy and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and black pepper as desired. Set aside.

Diced onions cooking in a skillet. — **Step 5:** While the potatoes are cooking, begin preparing your filling. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt a quarter cup of unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Add the diced sweet onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are soft and translucent, usually about 5-7 minutes. This gentle cooking brings out their natural sweetness.

Garlic added to a skillet with onions. — **Step 6:** Add the minced garlic and a good pinch of black pepper to the softened onions. Continue to cook for another 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this can turn bitter.

Flour added to a skillet with onions and garlic. — **Step 7:** Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the onion and garlic mixture. Stir constantly for about 3 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste. This step creates a roux, which will serve as the thickening base for your rich seafood sauce.

Seafood stock being poured into a large skillet with flour and onions. — **Step 8:** Gradually pour in the seafood stock, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Continue stirring until the sauce begins to thicken and smooth out. The stock provides a fantastic depth of flavor that complements the seafood beautifully.

A small jug of cream being poured into a skillet with onions and flour etc. — **Step 9:** Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently until fully incorporated and the sauce is lusciously creamy. This adds richness and a velvety texture to your filling.

Seasonings sprinkled on top of a creamy mixture. — **Step 10:** Add your chosen seasonings, such as Old Bay and dill, to the sauce. Stir well and cook for another couple of minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Fish, shrimp and peas added to a skillet. — **Step 11:** Gently fold in the white fish fillets (cut into 1-inch pieces), shelled and deveined shrimp, and optional peas (or other vegetables). Stir just enough to combine everything with the sauce. Be careful not to overmix, as the fish will continue to cook in the oven.

Fish and vegetable mixture added to a casserole dish. — **Step 12:** Lightly spray a 9×13 inch casserole dish with cooking spray. Pour the entire seafood filling mixture evenly into the prepared dish. The filling should spread easily and form the base of your delicious pie.

Mashed potatoes being spread on top of fish mixture. — **Step 13:** Carefully spoon the creamy mashed potatoes over the seafood filling. Using the back of a spoon or a spatula, spread the potatoes evenly across the entire surface of the pie, creating a beautiful, golden topping that will bake to perfection. You can even create decorative swirls with a fork for an extra touch.

Grated cheddar cheese lightly sprinkled on top of mashed potatoes. — **Step 14:** For a delightful golden crust and added flavor, sprinkle a light layer of grated cheddar cheese over the mashed potato topping. Place the casserole dish in the center of a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for approximately 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.

Hint: Don’t be concerned if the pie filling initially seems a bit thick. As the pie bakes, the fish, shrimp, and any added vegetables will naturally release their fluids, creating the perfect, luscious consistency for your sauce.

Customize Your Fisherman’s Pie: Variations and Substitute Ideas

One of the beauties of Fisherman’s Pie is its incredible flexibility. Don’t hesitate to personalize this recipe to suit your taste or what you have on hand:

A Splash of White Wine: For an extra layer of sophistication and depth, consider adding about ¼ to ½ cup of dry white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio) to your sauce after cooking the flour, before adding the seafood stock. Allow it to simmer and reduce for a couple of minutes to burn off the alcohol and concentrate the flavor. It pairs wonderfully with seafood!
Enrich with Egg Yolks: To achieve an even thicker and richer sauce without relying solely on flour, whisk one or two egg yolks with a tablespoon of cream and stir it into the warm sauce just before adding the seafood. This technique, known as liaison, adds a luxurious velvety texture.
Dairy-Free with Coconut Milk: If you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative or a different flavor profile, substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk. It will impart a subtle sweetness and creaminess that complements seafood surprisingly well, offering a slight tropical twist.
Explore Different Seafood: While white fish and shrimp are classic, feel free to experiment with other types of seafood. Cod, haddock, salmon, or even smoked haddock (for a traditional twist) work beautifully. You could also include scallops, mussels, or small chunks of crab meat for an extra special treat. Just ensure any delicate seafood is added towards the end to prevent overcooking.
Vary Your Vegetables: Beyond peas and carrots, consider adding other vegetables like finely diced celery, leeks, spinach (wilted and squeezed dry), or corn kernels to the filling. For picky eaters, finely chop or even puree vegetables into the sauce so they blend seamlessly.
Cheesy Topping Alternatives: Instead of just cheddar, try a blend of Gruyère for a nutty flavor, Parmesan for a salty kick, or even a smoked gouda for a deeper, more complex note on top of your mashed potatoes.
Herb and Spice Experimentation: Don’t limit yourself to Old Bay and dill. Fresh parsley, chives, thyme, or a touch of nutmeg in the potato mash can add wonderful aromatic dimensions. A pinch of cayenne pepper can also introduce a subtle heat to the filling.
Sweet Potato Topping: For a slightly healthier and sweeter variation, use a mashed sweet potato topping instead of regular potatoes. It adds a beautiful color and a distinct flavor that pairs well with seafood.

Overhead shot of a casserole dish with a Fisherman's Pie ready to serve.

How To Serve and Enjoy Your Fisherman’s Pie

Once your Fisherman’s Pie emerges from the oven, golden and bubbling, resist the urge to dive in immediately! This next step is crucial for the perfect serving experience. Allow the pie to rest for about 15-20 minutes after removing it from the oven. This cooling period is essential because it allows the creamy filling to set and thicken properly, ensuring that when you scoop out a portion, it holds its shape beautifully and doesn’t run all over the plate.

This hearty and complete meal pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides. Consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad tossed with a simple vinaigrette, or some crusty bread to soak up any extra delicious sauce. For a truly authentic Irish feast, you might also enjoy it with steamed green beans or roasted asparagus.

If you’re a fan of comforting Irish recipes like this Fisherman’s Pie, you absolutely must try our Traditional Irish Stew with Mashed Potatoes recipe. It’s another soul-warming classic that’s perfect for chilly evenings and guaranteed to satisfy.

How to Store Leftovers and Meal Prep Tips

Fisherman’s Pie makes for fantastic leftovers, often tasting even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Once the pie has cooled completely to room temperature, transfer any remaining portions to an airtight container. It will keep fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave for individual servings (though the potato topping might soften) or, for best results, warm it in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through, which helps maintain the crispy topping.

This pie also freezes beautifully. To freeze, allow the cooked pie to cool completely. You can freeze it in the original baking dish (if freezer-safe) or portion it into individual freezer-safe containers. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It will stay good in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat in the oven as described above.

About The Author

Melanie Cagle

Melanie is a professional cook, food photographer, and Cajun food connoisseur. Since 2020, she has been passionately sharing rigorously tested recipes and helpful culinary tutorials right here on The Cagle Diaries. Her dedication to delicious, foolproof cooking has led her work to be featured on prominent platforms such as Fox News channels, Yahoo News, Southern Living, and many more, making her a trusted voice in the food community.

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More Irish Recipes I Think You’ll Love

If you enjoyed this hearty Fisherman’s Pie, you’ll be delighted to explore more traditional Irish fare from my kitchen. These recipes are perfect for celebrating Irish heritage or simply enjoying a comforting meal:

Traditional Irish Corned Beef Hash
Irish Stew With Mashed Potatoes
Traditional Colcannon
Fried Cabbage and Potatoes

Overhead close up shot of the corner of a fishermans pie.

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Fisherman’s Pie Recipe

Close up shot of the inside of a dish with Fisherman's Pie.

A wonderful blend of fish and shrimp in a rich seafood sauce topped with mashed potatoes and cheese. This Fisherman’s Pie is traditional Irish fare!

Prep Time: 40 mins

Cook Time: 40 mins

Total Time: 1 hr 20 mins

Servings: 8

Cuisine: Irish, Pies

Author: Melanie Cagle

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Equipment

13×9 Baking Dish
Fisherman’s Wharf Seafood Seasoning

Ingredients

Potato Topping

7 Each Yellow Potatoes
¼ Cup Unsalted Butter
¼ Cup Whole Milk
Salt and Pepper to taste
¼ Cup Cheddar Cheese

Pie Filling

¼ Cup Unsalted Butter
1 Each Sweet Onion, diced
3 Cloves Garlic, minced
¼ Cup All Purpose Flour
1 Cup Seafood Stock
¼ Cup Heavy Whipping Cream
1 teaspoon Old Bay Seasoning
½ Teaspoon Dill
1 Pound White Fish Fillets, patted dry and cut into 1″ pieces.
1 Pound Small Shrimp, shelled, deveined, tail off – patted dry

Optional Ingredients

1 Cup Peas

Instructions

Peel potatoes and place into cold, salted water.
Boil until potatoes are soft, drain and add to the bowl of your stand mixer. Beat using the wire whip until creamy.
Put butter and milk together and microwave for 1 min before adding to the potatoes.
Taste the potatoes and season with salt and pepper as preferred.
Melt ¼ cup butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Add diced sweet onions and cook until soft. Then add the garlic and black pepper and cook another 2 minutes.
Add flour and cook for a further 3 mins.
Slowly stir in the seafood stock.
Slowly stir in the heavy cream.
Add seasonings. Cook for 3 mins more.
Add the fish, shrimp and peas and stir to combine.
Remove from heat.
Turn filling into casserole dish and top with mashed potato mixture.
Sprinkle with the grated cheese.
Bake in center of oven for 40 mins at 375°F (190°C).
Remove from oven and allow to stand for 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

It may seem like the filling mixture is too thick, but the fish and shrimp as well as any veggies will release some fluids that will make this the perfect texture.

Check out the recipe for Crawfish Pie also on my site.

Nutrition

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