Imagine a dish so luxurious and creamy that it transforms an ordinary fish into a restaurant-worthy masterpiece. Walleye Mornay is not just a recipe; it's a culinary adventure that combines the delicate, flaky texture of fresh walleye with a rich, velvety cheese sauce that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Whether you're a seafood enthusiast or looking to impress dinner guests, this classic American dish promises to elevate your home cooking to gourmet heights.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 walleye fillets or steaks
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1 cup grated cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 4 walleye fillets or steaks, 2 cups of milk, 1/4 cup of butter, 1/4 cup of flour, 1 cup of grated cheese, salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the walleye.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the 1/4 cup of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the 1/4 cup of flour, whisking continuously to create a roux. Cook for about 2 minutes until it turns a light golden color.
- Gradually add the 2 cups of milk to the roux, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens and begins to bubble, about 5-7 minutes.
- Once the sauce has thickened, remove it from heat and stir in the 1 cup of grated cheese until melted and smooth. Then, add the 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, mixing well. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
- In a greased baking dish, place the walleye fillets or steaks in a single layer. Season them lightly with salt and pepper.
- Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the walleye, ensuring that each piece is well covered.
- Bake the walleye in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Once done, remove the baking dish from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the Walleye Mornay hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, alongside your choice of sides such as steamed vegetables or rice.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Walleye: The key to an exceptional Mornay is starting with high-quality, fresh walleye fillets. Look for firm, white flesh with no strong fishy odor.
- Master the Roux: Take your time when making the roux. Constant whisking prevents lumps and ensures a smooth, silky sauce.
- Cheese Selection Matters: Use a good melting cheese like Gruyère, Emmental, or sharp cheddar for maximum flavor.
- Don't Overcook the Fish: Walleye cooks quickly. Watch carefully to prevent drying out - it should flake easily but remain moist.
- Let It Rest: Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes after baking. This helps the sauce set and makes serving easier.
- Garnish Creatively: Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can add a pop of color and fresh flavor to your finished dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 355kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 17g
Cholesterol: mg
