Crispy Potato and Salmon Layered Bake

Name: Crispy Potato and Salmon Layered Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced; 2 salmon fillets, skinless; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice); 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper, to taste; Butter for greasing the baking dish

Highlighted under: Comfort Cravings Kitchen

I absolutely love making this Crispy Potato and Salmon Layered Bake for its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The layers of thinly sliced potatoes become beautifully crispy while the salmon stays tender and moist. It’s a comforting dish that brings together the richness of the fish with the heartiness of the potatoes. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or when I want to impress guests. The best part is that it can easily be prepared ahead of time, making it a stress-free option for any occasion.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2026-02-07T21:29:27.881Z

When I first tried this layered bake, I was amazed at how the simplicity of the ingredients combined to create such a hearty dish. I decided to use a mixture of fresh herbs when layering the salmon, which added an aromatic freshness that truly elevated the flavors. The secret to a crispy texture lies in soaking the sliced potatoes in cold water before baking; this helps remove excess starch, ensuring each slice crisps up beautifully.

Over time, I discovered that adding a sprinkle of cheese on top during the last few minutes of baking creates a golden crust that complements the flaky salmon perfectly. This layered bake not only tastes fantastic, but it also presents beautifully when served, making it my go-to recipe for gatherings.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Crispy, golden potato layers that contrast with tender fish
Fresh herbs enhance the overall flavor, making each bite delightful
A comforting dish that’s perfect for gatherings and family meals

Preparing Potatoes Perfectly

The key to achieving those crispy potato layers lies in how you prepare them. After slicing, soaking the potatoes in cold water removes excess starch, which helps avoid a gummy texture. This process should take about 10 minutes. Make sure to drain thoroughly and pat them dry with a paper towel. Any moisture left on the potatoes can lead to steaming rather than roasting, preventing that desired crunch.

Consider using a mandoline slicer for uniform slices, which ensures even cooking. Ideally, your slices should be about 1/8 inch thick. Uneven pieces may lead to some parts being undercooked while others overcook. If you want to experiment with flavors, you can add a layer of sautéed onions or leeks for added sweetness beneath the potatoes.

Layering for Maximum Flavor

When layering, it's essential to spread the ingredients evenly to ensure each bite is balanced with both potato and salmon. Start by tightly packing the first layer of potatoes so that they form a solid base. The salmon should be laid down flat, with a sprinkle of garlic and fresh herbs on top to infuse the fish with flavor as it bakes. Don't forget to season each layer; it's key to building a flavor foundation for the whole dish.

The placement of cheese is also crucial. For a gooey texture that melds seamlessly with the other ingredients, choose a cheese that melts well, like cheddar or gruyère. Try grating it fresh, as pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect meltability. Adding the cheese on top creates a golden crust that contrasts beautifully with the soft layers underneath.

Ingredients

Ingredients for the Bake

4 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
2 salmon fillets, skinless
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste
Butter for greasing the baking dish

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Prepare the Potatoes

Soak the sliced potatoes in cold water for about 10 minutes, then drain and pat dry.

Layer the Ingredients

Grease a baking dish with butter. Begin layering half of the potato slices on the bottom, then add the salmon fillets. Sprinkle with garlic, dill, parsley, salt, and pepper. Top with the remaining potato slices.

Add Cream and Cheese

Pour the cream evenly over the layered potatoes and salmon. Sprinkle the cheese on top.

Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.

Serve

Let the bake rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Crispy Potato and Salmon Layered Bake!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding some lemon zest or a splash of white wine to the cream.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Crispy Potato and Salmon Layered Bake can be prepared in advance to save time. Assemble the dish up to a day ahead, covering it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerating until you're ready to bake. If you've added fresh herbs, consider reducing their quantity slightly, as they can lose flavor during storage. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to ensure even cooking.

If you want to freeze this dish, assemble it but do not bake it. Wrap the dish tightly in aluminum foil or freezer-safe plastic wrap and store it for up to three months. When it's time to cook, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then follow the baking instructions, adding a few extra minutes if necessary to ensure it’s heated through.

Serving Suggestions

For a well-rounded meal, consider serving this dish with a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette. The acidity of the dressing will cut through the richness of the salmon and cream, enhancing the flavors. You could also offer a side of steamed green beans or asparagus, which adds a vibrant color and complements the dish’s heartiness.

If you're looking for variations, feel free to swap out salmon for another fish, such as trout; just ensure the fillets are of a similar thickness and cooking time. For a vegetarian twist, substitute layers of fish with a mix of sautéed mushrooms and spinach, creating a delectable and satisfying alternative that retains the recipe's comforting essence.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure it is fully thawed before using.

→ What type of potatoes are best for this bake?

Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work well due to their starch content, ensuring crispiness.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Absolutely, you can assemble the layers a day ahead and bake it when you're ready to serve.

→ What other ingredients can I add?

Feel free to include vegetables such as spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.