Casserole with potatoes and salmon

A casserole with potatoes and salmon is a delightful and nutritious dish that combines tender, flaky salmon with creamy potatoes. It’s a perfect way to enjoy a comforting meal that's also packed with omega-3s. Here’s a simple recipe to make this delicious casserole:

Potato and Salmon Casserole

Ingredients:

  • 4-5 medium potatoes, peeled and sliced thinly
  • 1 lb (450g) salmon fillets, skinless and boneless, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your choice, like Gruyère or mozzarella)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup heavy cream or milk
  • 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
  • 1 teaspoon dried dill or thyme (or a mix of both)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
  • 2 tablespoons butter (optional, for topping)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat Oven:

    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Prepare Potatoes:

    • Peel and slice the potatoes thinly (about 1/8 inch thick). You can use a mandolin slicer for even slices.
  3. Cook Aromatics:

    • Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat.
    • Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
    • Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
  4. Prepare Sauce:

    • In a bowl, mix the heavy cream or milk with the sour cream or Greek yogurt until smooth.
    • Stir in the cooked onion and garlic mixture. Season with salt, pepper, and dried dill or thyme.
  5. Assemble Casserole:

    • In a large baking dish, arrange a layer of potato slices on the bottom.
    • Spread a portion of the salmon pieces over the potatoes.
    • Pour a portion of the sauce mixture over the salmon and potatoes.
    • Sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese over the sauce.
    • Add another layer of potato slices, followed by the remaining salmon and sauce.
    • Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly over the top.
  6. Add Topping (Optional):

    • For a crispy topping, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese.
  7. Bake:

    • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
    • After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  8. Serve:

    • Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips and Variations:

  • Vegetable Additions: Add vegetables like spinach, peas, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
  • Cheese Choices: You can use a mix of cheeses or substitute with a dairy-free cheese if preferred.
  • Healthier Option: Use low-fat milk or a dairy-free alternative and reduce the amount of cheese for a lighter version.
  • Herb Variations: Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can be added for additional flavor. You can also experiment with other herbs like tarragon or basil.

This potato and salmon casserole is a comforting and nutritious dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. Enjoy!