How long can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

Is there a substitute for salted cod?

A mild white fish like haddock can be used, though the flavor will differ.

Can this dish be frozen?

While the casserole can be frozen, the texture of potatoes might change. For best results, consume fresh.

Can I use less cheese?

Yes, adjust cheese to your preference or use a lower-fat cheese for a lighter option.

Creamy Portuguese Bacalhau Casserole with Cheesy Potato Top

Name: Creamy Portuguese Bacalhau Casserole with Cheesy Potato Top
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Main Course
Ingredients: 2 lbs salted cod; 2 onions; 3 cloves garlic; 1/2 cup olive oil; 1 cup heavy cream; Salt and black pepper; 3 lbs potatoes; 1 cup milk; 1/2 cup butter; 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; Salt; Fresh parsley; Lemon wedges

A delightful fusion of creamy codfish and cheesy potatoes

This Creamy Portuguese Bacalhau Casserole combines flaky salted cod with rich, cheesy mashed potatoes, baked to golden perfection. A comforting dish perfect for family gatherings.

1 h 45 min
6
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Bacalhau (Cod)

2 lbs salted cod

soaked overnight

2 onions

thinly sliced

3 cloves garlic

minced

1/2 cup olive oil

1 cup heavy cream

Salt and black pepper

to taste

For the Cheesy Potato Top

3 lbs potatoes

peeled and cubed

1 cup milk

1/2 cup butter

1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Salt

to taste

For the Garnish

Fresh parsley

chopped

Lemon wedges

Preparation

Desalting the Bacalhau

Soak Cod

Soak salted cod in cold water for 24 hours, changing the water 2-3 times.

Drain and Dry

After soaking, drain and pat dry.

Flake Cod

Flake the cod into large pieces, removing any bones.

Ensure the cod is desalted thoroughly to avoid an overly salty casserole.

Preparing the Cheesy Potato Top

Boil Potatoes

Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender.

Mash Potatoes

Drain and mash the potatoes with milk, butter, and salt.

Add Cheese

Stir in 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese.

Save a cup of the potato boiling water to help adjust the texture of the mash.

Cooking Process

Sauté the Cod

Heat olive oil in a skillet, add onions and garlic, cook until translucent. Add the flaked cod and sauté for 5 minutes.

Build the Casserole

Layer the cod mixture in a baking dish, pour over heavy cream, then top with cheesy mashed potatoes.

Bake

Sprinkle remaining mozzarella cheese over potatoes and bake at 350°F until golden brown and bubbly, about 35 minutes.

Plating & Serving