Fish Chowder Sheet Pan Bake: A Comforting, Effortless Dinner Solution
Discover how to make a flavorful fish chowder sheet pan bake—rich, creamy, and filled with nourishing vegetables, all in under an hour.
Fish Chowder Sheet Pan Bake: Comfort Food, Simplified
Fish chowder has long stood as a symbol of coastal comfort cuisine—warming, nourishing, and laden with tradition. The Fish Chowder Sheet Pan Bake offers all the creamy, smoky richness of classic chowder, but with a modern, fuss-free twist: everything is roasted on a single pan for easy prep, minimal cleanup, and maximum flavor.
What Makes a Sheet Pan Fish Chowder Unique?
Traditional fish chowder usually involves simmering ingredients in a large pot to coax out complex, layered flavor. This sheet pan bake approach instead leverages the oven’s dry heat, which:
- Intensifies the natural sweetness of vegetables through caramelization.
- Allows smoky bacon to crisp alongside the potatoes and onions.
- Gently roasts flaky white fish to tender, juicy perfection.
- Keeps prep and cleanup incredibly simple, so you can enjoy comfort food any day of the week.
Key Components of the Fish Chowder Sheet Pan Bake
This dish harmonizes classic chowder flavors with easy, modern techniques. Let’s break down its pillars:
1. Mild, Flaky White Fish
Cod fillets are the star—mild, sweet, and sturdy enough to hold together during roasting. Other great options include haddock, halibut, or pollock. Cut the fillets into even pieces for consistent cooking.
2. Classic Chowder Vegetables
- Potatoes: Small yellow potatoes work beautifully for their creamy texture and earthy flavor.
- Onions: Red onions provide subtle sweetness and take on a beautiful color when roasted.
- Carrots & Parsnips (Optional): Add further complexity and natural sweetness.
- Celery (Optional): Offers aromatic freshness, especially when using celery hearts and leaves.
3. Bacon for Smokiness
Bacon pieces roast directly atop the potatoes and onions, imparting a savory depth and irresistible smoky flavor characteristic of traditional chowders.
4. Creamy, Tangy Topping
- Mayonnaise and Dijon mustard blend together to give the fish a creamy, slightly piquant coating.
- Lemon zest brightens the flavors and lightly cuts the richness.
5. Crunchy, Herbaceous Crust
Panko bread crumbs mixed with olive oil and fresh thyme create a crispy, golden topping for each fillet, offering satisfying texture contrast.
Fish Chowder Sheet Pan Bake Recipe
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Cod fillet (or other flaky white fish) | 4 pieces (6 oz each, about 1-inch thick) |
| Small yellow potatoes | 1 lb (about 16), halved lengthwise |
| Red onions | 2 small, cut into 1/2-inch wedges |
| Bacon | 4 slices, cut into 1/2-inch pieces |
| Mayonnaise | 1 tbsp |
| Dijon mustard | 1 tbsp |
| Lemon zest | 1 tsp, finely grated |
| Panko bread crumbs | 1/4 cup |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp |
| Fresh thyme leaves | 1 tbsp |
| Black pepper | 1/2 tsp, or to taste |
Variations
- Substitute parsnips, carrots, or celery for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Swap in coconut milk for creaminess if dairy-free.
- Add a splash of broth beneath the potatoes for extra moisture.
- Top finished dish with fresh herbs like dill or parsley before serving.
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Step-by-Step Directions
- Prep the Sheet Pan: Heat oven to 450°F. Pile halved potatoes and onion wedges in the center of a rimmed sheet pan. Sprinkle the bacon pieces directly over the top.
- Start Roasting: Roast the potato, onion, and bacon mixture for 10 minutes until bacon renders slightly and vegetables start to soften.
- Mix Creamy and Crunchy Toppings: In one bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon zest. In another, mix panko with olive oil and thyme leaves.
- Prepare the Fish: Season cod fillets with pepper. Brush tops with the mayonnaise-mustard mixture, then sprinkle with the herbed panko mixture to form a crust.
- Reduce Oven Temperature: Remove sheet pan, reduce oven to 425°F. Toss the potatoes and onions, spreading vegetables evenly. Arrange potatoes cut-side down for optimal crisping.
- Roast with Fish: Nestle coated cod fillets among the potatoes and onions on the sheet pan. Return to the oven and roast for 12–15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily and the potatoes are golden and tender.
- Serve: Spoon everything onto plates. The creamy coating on the fish, crunchy panko, and smoky potatoes come together like a chowder—without the pot.
Tips for the Perfect Fish Chowder Sheet Pan Bake
- Choose fish fillets at least 1 inch thick to prevent overcooking and guarantee moist texture.
- Spread potatoes cut side down after the first roast—this ensures a crispy surface.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Space out ingredients for even caramelization.
- Add vegetables as desired: Carrots, parsnips, or celery bring color and nutrition, but avoid adding water-heavy vegetables that could make the pan soggy.
- Finish with fresh herbs like chopped parsley, dill, or even sliced jalapeño for brightness and mild heat.
Health & Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Per serving (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 412 kcal |
| Total Fat | 18g (5g sat fat) |
| Cholesterol | 84mg |
| Sodium | 435mg |
| Protein | 33g |
| Carbohydrates | 28g |
| Fiber | 3g |
This meal features balanced macronutrients, healthy fats from olive oil and fish, and fiber-rich vegetables, making it ideal for a weeknight family dinner.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container up to 2 days. Fish’s texture is best enjoyed fresh but will remain flavorful if gently reheated.
- Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven for 10–12 minutes, covered loosely with foil to avoid drying. Avoid microwaving, as it may toughen the fish.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the breadcrumb crust and vegetables may become watery or mushy when thawed.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with green beans, asparagus, or a simple salad for freshness and color.
- A lemon wedge or a quick squeeze of juice over the finished fish boosts brightness.
- Fresh bread or a crusty baguette on the side is perfect for scooping up creamy, bacon-rich potatoes.
Why Make Fish Chowder as a Sheet Pan Bake?
This method captures all the essence of a classic New England chowder—creamy textures, cozy flavors, and hearty nutrition—while dropping the simmering pot and hands-on stirring. The result: a show-stopping comfort food dinner that fits into even the busiest weeknight schedule. Sheet pan bakes minimize dirty dishes and maximize free time, letting the oven do the work while you tackle the rest of your evening.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?
A: Yes, any firm, mild white fish such as haddock, halibut, or pollock works well. Be sure to adjust cooking time for fillet thickness.
Q: How do I keep the fish from drying out in the oven?
A: Use thicker fillets and nestle them among the vegetables to help insulate the fish. The creamy mayo-mustard coating also helps lock in moisture.
Q: Can I make this dish dairy-free?
A: Yes, simply omit the mayonnaise or substitute with a plant-based mayo. Use olive oil or coconut milk instead of cream if opting for a dairy-based finish.
Q: What are some good vegetable additions?
A: Chopped carrots, parsnips, or celery add flavor and texture. Avoid vegetables with high water content (like zucchini) that might water down the pan.
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: The recipe as written uses panko bread crumbs, which typically contain gluten. Substitute with gluten-free panko or crushed GF crackers for a gluten-free version.
Best Practices for Sheet Pan Baking
- Preheat the oven thoroughly for even browning and caramelization.
- Don’t crowd the pan. Space everything in a single layer to allow proper roasting instead of steaming.
- Finish with fresh herbs and a squeeze of citrus for extra vibrance before serving.
The Bottom Line: An Effortless Family Classic
The Fish Chowder Sheet Pan Bake transforms beloved chowder flavors into an weeknight-friendly meal that’s resourceful, satisfying, and just as comforting as its stovetop ancestor—perfect for cozy nights or whenever you crave a restorative dinner without extra fuss. With its blend of creamy, smoky, and herby notes, this bake will become a staple in your repertoire for years to come.
References
- https://gooddinnermom.com/oven-baked-chowder/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GZkEjqXiydw
- https://www.womansday.com/food-recipes/food-drinks/recipes/a60511/fish-chowder-sheet-pan-bake-recipe/
- https://www.prevention.com/food-nutrition/recipes/a37331974/fish-chowder-sheet-pan-bake-recipe/
- https://www.karnsfoods.com/scotts-meal-deals/print/?id=fish-chowder-sheet-pan-bake-1588
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