Fish Couvillion Recipe Easy and Delicious Southern Style

Fish Couvillion is a classic Southern Louisiana dish that brings together the comforting flavors of fish, rich seasonings, and a luscious roux-based sauce. This hearty and flavorful casserole is a staple in Cajun and Creole households, perfect for family dinners or special gatherings.

The beauty of Fish Couvillion lies in its simplicity and versatility—fresh fish simmered with aromatic vegetables, enveloped in a creamy, buttery sauce, and then baked to golden perfection. Whether you’re a seasoned seafood lover or new to Southern cuisine, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.

In this blog post, we’ll guide you through every step of making an authentic Fish Couvillion, sharing tips and variations to suit your taste. You’ll also find handy equipment lists and nutrition facts to help you plan your meal.

So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into this delicious Southern treasure!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fish Couvillion is more than just a casserole—it’s a celebration of Southern flavors and comfort food at its best. The combination of flaky fish, savory spices, and a creamy roux creates a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying.

If you enjoy dishes with a rich history and bold taste, this recipe is made for you.

Additionally, this recipe is highly customizable. You can swap fish types, adjust the spice level, or add your favorite vegetables to make it your own.

It’s also a great way to introduce seafood to family members who might be hesitant, thanks to its approachable and well-balanced flavors.

Looking for more Southern or hearty recipes? Check out our Slow Cooker Roast Recipe With Vegetables Made Easy for another comforting meal option.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds white fish fillets (catfish, cod, or tilapia work well)
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 1 cup chopped green bell pepper
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
• 1 cup fish stock or seafood broth
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley (fresh)
• 1 cup cooked white rice (optional, for serving)

Equipment

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Medium saucepan for making the roux and sauce
• Baking dish (9×13 inch works well)
• Mixing spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Oven preheated to 350°F (175°C)

Instructions

1. Prepare the fish: Rinse the fish fillets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Cut into bite-sized chunks and set aside.
2. Sauté the vegetables: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, green bell pepper, celery, and minced garlic. Cook until the vegetables are soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Make the roux: In a medium saucepan, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 2-3 minutes to form a light brown roux, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
4. Add liquids: Slowly whisk in the milk and fish stock, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth, about 5 minutes.
5. Season the sauce: Stir in Cajun seasoning, dried thyme, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
6. Combine fish and vegetables: Add the sautéed vegetables and fish chunks to the sauce. Stir gently to coat the fish evenly without breaking it up too much.
7. Add lemon juice and parsley: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in lemon juice and fresh parsley for brightness.
8. Assemble the dish: Pour the fish and sauce mixture into a greased baking dish. If desired, spread cooked white rice evenly on the bottom or serve it on the side.
9. Bake: Place the baking dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, until the top is bubbly and slightly golden.
10. Serve: Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional parsley if desired.

Tips & Variations

For the best flavor, use fresh fish and homemade fish stock if possible. If you don’t have fish stock, chicken broth is a fine substitute.

Try using different types of fish like halibut or snapper for varied textures and flavors. If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.

For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce.

Vegetable lovers can add diced tomatoes or okra to the sautéed vegetables for a heartier Couvillion. To explore more vegetable-forward recipes, check out our Apple Barn Pigeon Forge TN Vegetable Soup Recipe Guide.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Fish Couvillion pairs beautifully with traditional Southern sides like steamed white rice, crusty French bread, or even a fresh green salad. For a true Cajun feast, serve it alongside Black Bean Rice Burger Recipe Vegan Made Easy and Delicious or some spicy fried okra.

To round out your meal, consider a light dessert such as a Berry Cobbler Recipe Vegan: Easy, Delicious, and Healthy to keep the Southern theme going.

Conclusion

Fish Couvillion is a timeless dish that showcases the heart and soul of Southern cooking. Its creamy, flavorful sauce combined with tender fish makes for a comforting yet elegant meal.

Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers consistently delicious results.

By using fresh ingredients and simple techniques, you can bring the taste of Louisiana right into your kitchen. Plus, the flexibility of this dish means you can tailor it to your preferences or dietary needs.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with spices and accompaniments to make it truly your own.

If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to explore more of our flavorful meals like our Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious for easy midweek dinners or our Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping for on-the-go options.

Happy cooking!

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