Smoked Haddock Dauphinoise Recipe
Introduction
Smoked haddock dauphinoise is a comforting twist on the classic potato gratin, featuring delicate smoked fish baked in creamy thyme-infused potatoes. This dish is rich, flavorful, and perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients
- 1kg Maris Piper or King Edward potatoes, peeled and sliced as thinly as possible
- 300ml double cream
- 1 tsp thyme leaves, plus extra to serve
- 25g parmesan, finely grated
- 300g skinless smoked haddock, cut into thin pieces
- Small knob of butter, for the dish
- Watercress, to serve
Instructions
- Step 1: Place the sliced potatoes in a pan of cold, salted water and bring to the boil. Once boiling, turn off the heat and drain the potatoes well.
- Step 2: Return the potatoes to the pan and pour over the double cream. Add the thyme leaves, two-thirds of the parmesan, and the smoked haddock. Season with salt and pepper, then gently mix to combine.
- Step 3: Butter a medium-sized gratin dish and tip in the potato and haddock mixture. Scatter the remaining parmesan evenly over the top.
- Step 4: Preheat the oven to 190°C (170°C fan) or gas mark 5. Bake the dish for 30-35 minutes until golden and bubbling around the edges.
- Step 5: Allow the dauphinoise to cool for at least 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with extra thyme and freshly ground black pepper. Serve with a dressed watercress salad if desired.
Tips & Variations
- For extra depth of flavor, sprinkle a little nutmeg into the cream before mixing with the potatoes.
- If you prefer a richer dish, add a handful of grated cheddar alongside the parmesan.
- You can substitute smoked haddock with smoked salmon or cooked white fish for a different twist.
- Slice the potatoes as thinly as possible to ensure even cooking and a tender texture.
Storage
This dish can be covered and chilled for up to one day before baking. It also freezes well for up to three months; be sure to defrost fully before baking. Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consumed within two days. Reheat gently in the oven to retain the creamy texture.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dauphinoise up to a day in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. Bake it when you’re ready to serve.
What can I serve with smoked haddock dauphinoise?
A simple dressed watercress salad is traditional and adds a fresh contrast. You could also serve steamed green vegetables or a light cucumber salad alongside.
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Smoked Haddock Dauphinoise Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This smoked haddock dauphinoise is a comforting, creamy potato dish layered with delicate smoked haddock, rich double cream, thyme, and parmesan cheese. Baked until golden and bubbling, it offers a delicious twist on the classic dauphinoise, perfect for a satisfying dinner served alongside a fresh watercress salad.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1kg Maris Piper or King Edward potatoes, peeled and sliced as thinly as possible
- 300ml double cream
- 1 tsp thyme leaves, plus extra to serve
- 25g parmesan, finely grated
- 300g skinless smoked haddock, cut into thin pieces
- small knob of butter, for the dish
- watercress, to serve
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes: Place the thinly sliced potatoes into a pan of cold, salted water. Bring the water to a boil, then immediately turn off the heat. Drain the potatoes well to remove excess water.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the drained potatoes to the pan and pour over the double cream. Add the thyme leaves, two-thirds of the grated parmesan, and the smoked haddock pieces. Season with salt and pepper, then gently mix everything together to combine without breaking the potatoes or haddock.
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Butter a medium-sized gratin dish thoroughly to prevent sticking. Transfer the potato and haddock mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining parmesan evenly over the top.
- Storage Option: You can cover and chill the dish for up to a day before cooking, or freeze it for up to three months. If frozen, make sure to defrost fully before baking for even cooking.
- Bake the Dauphinoise: Preheat your oven to 190°C (170°C fan/gas mark 5). Bake the gratin uncovered for 30-35 minutes until the top is golden brown and the mixture is bubbling around the edges.
- Serve: Allow the dauphinoise to cool for at least 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with extra thyme leaves and freshly ground black pepper. Serve it straight from the dish with a side of dressed watercress salad for a fresh, peppery contrast.
Notes
- The potatoes should be sliced as thinly as possible to ensure even cooking and a tender texture.
- If you prefer a stronger cheesy flavor, increase the parmesan quantity slightly.
- You can substitute watercress with rocket or spinach for the salad if desired.
- Ensure the smoked haddock is skinless to avoid chewy bits in the dish.
- For a lighter version, use single cream instead of double cream, but the dish will be less rich.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Keywords: smoked haddock dauphinoise, creamy potato bake, fish gratin, British comfort food, baked fish potato dish

