This air fryer fish pie is one of the best pies I’ve made in the air fryer! I had some leftover leeks and potatoes from a potato soup I made over the weekend, so I decided to put them to good use in a creative new way. Fish pie is a classic family favourite, and this version is not only tasty and filling but also incredibly nutritious. It’s the perfect dish for a midweek dinner that everyone will love.
I especially enjoy making pies during the autumn and winter months. There’s something about the warmth and comfort they provide that makes them so perfect for chilly evenings. However, this fish pie is light enough to be enjoyed year-round, making it a versatile recipe for any season.
The combination of tender salmon, creamy sauce, and a crispy potato topping creates a dish that is as satisfying as it is delicious. The air-fryer works its magic by achieving a beautifully crisp and golden layer of potatoes while keeping the salmon moist and succulent. As the pie cooks, the wonderful aroma of bubbling cream, hollandaise sauce, and fresh parsley fills the kitchen. Making it impossible to resist. It’s a dish of comfort and indulgence in every bite.
Salmon is not only flavourful but also packed with essential nutrients. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, it’s great for heart health, reducing inflammation, and supporting brain function. Additionally, salmon provides high-quality protein, as well as important vitamins like vitamin D and B vitamins, along with minerals such as selenium. Including salmon in your diet offers both health benefits and an extra dose of flavour, making this fish pie a wholesome and indulgent meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
PREP 10 minutes
COOK 20 minutes
KIT you will need an air fryer and oven proof dish.
Ingredients for air fryer fish pie
2 tablespoons of cream
1 tablespoon of hollandaise sauce
A handful of parsley, chopped
1 small filet of salmon, sliced
1 small potato, peeled and thinly sliced
A handful of grated cheddar cheese
Salt & pepper to season
Method
First, I began by preparing the salmon. I cut the fillet into bite-sized chunks, making sure they were all fairly even in size so they’d cook through at the same rate. Then I peeled and thinly sliced one small potato, aiming for nice even slices so they’d cook evenly and crisp up nicely on top. I also gave a handful of fresh parsley a quick rough chop. Nothing too fine, just enough to release the flavour.
Next, I placed the salmon pieces into an oven-proof dish and poured over a little cream and a few spoonfuls of hollandaise sauce. The combination adds a rich, velvety base to the pie. I stirred in the chopped parsley, then seasoned everything with a generous pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Then it was time to add the topping. I laid the sliced potatoes neatly across the top of the creamy mixture, overlapping them slightly like a rustic scalloped pattern. To finish it off, I sprinkled a generous handful of grated cheddar cheese over the top – because what’s a pie without that bubbly, golden crust?
I placed the dish into the air fryer basket, leaving the crisper plates in to help circulate the heat. I set the temperature to 160°C and cooked it for around 20 minutes. Keep in mind that all air fryers vary slightly, so be sure to check that your fish pie is cooked through before serving.
The potatoes should be tender and golden brown, and the salmon should flake apart easily with a fork. I love serving this dish with some steamed green veg or a crisp salad on the side. It’s hearty, creamy comfort food at its best. Let me know if you try it – tag us on socials!
Tips for Air Fryer Fish Pie
1. Use Pre-Cooked Filling
Fish pie filling should be fully cooked before adding it to the air fryer. This includes gently poaching your fish (such as cod, haddock, or salmon) in milk with onions, herbs, or a bay leaf, and thickening the sauce with a roux or cornflour for a creamy texture.
2. Choose Air Fryer-Safe Dishes
Use individual ramekins or a shallow, oven-safe baking dish that fits comfortably in your air fryer basket. Ceramic, glass (like Pyrex), or silicone dishes work best for even cooking.
3. Don’t Overfill
Keep fillings ¾ full to prevent bubbling over during cooking. Leave space for mashed potato topping and airflow circulation.
4. Smooth and Fork the Mash
Top the pie with smooth mashed potato, then use a fork to create rough ridges. These help the mash crisp up beautifully in the air fryer.
5. Preheat Your Air Fryer
Preheating to 180°C (356°F) for 2or 3 minutes ensures even cooking and a golden top from the start.
6. Cook Until Golden and Bubbling
Air fry for around 12 to 15 minutes at 180°C, or until the potato is crisp and golden and the filling is bubbling at the edges. If the mash browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil.
7. Add Cheese for a Tasty Crust
Sprinkle grated cheddar or parmesan on top of the mash before air frying for a rich, golden topping.
8. Let It Rest
Allow the pie to rest for 5 minutes after cooking. This helps the filling set slightly and prevents burns when serving.
9. Pair with Greens
Serve with steamed peas, broccoli, or a crisp green salad for a balanced and comforting meal.
Fish pie in the air fryer is quick, cosy, and perfect for weeknights!
Similar recipes
If you love this easy air fryer fish pie you might also like my simple air fryer chicken pie recipe.
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