Rich, creamy, cheesy, and topped with a perfectly golden crust, this Ultimate Newfoundland Cheddar Cod Gratin takes one of Atlantic Canada’s most beloved comfort foods and gives it an irresistible modern twist.

Apart of our Great Canadian Recipe Series | Newfoundland & Labrador Edition

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Tender flakes of fresh Atlantic cod are folded into a velvety homemade cheese sauce made with sharp Canadian cheddar, Parmesan, roasted garlic, and fresh herbs before being topped with buttery panko breadcrumbs and baked until bubbling and golden brown.

This hearty seafood casserole is the ultimate comfort meal for chilly evenings and family dinners. Serve it with warm crusty bread, roasted vegetables, or a crisp garden salad for a meal that’s both elegant and comforting.

As part of our Great Canadian Recipe Series, this recipe celebrates Newfoundland & Labrador’s rich fishing heritage while showcasing one of Canada’s finest ingredients—fresh Atlantic cod.

Whether you’re a lifelong cod lover or trying this classic dish for the first time, this upgraded version is sure to become a family favorite.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

🧀 Rich, creamy homemade cheddar sauce

🐟 Tender flaky Atlantic cod

🧄 Roasted garlic for incredible flavor

🥖 Crispy buttery herb topping

🍁 A comforting Canadian classic

🥘 Easy weeknight family dinner

❄️ Perfect cozy comfort food

❤️ Freezer-friendly leftovers

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Great Canadian Recipe Series

Province Featured:

Newfoundland & Labrador

For generations, cod has been at the heart of Newfoundland kitchens. This recipe honors that tradition while adding layers of rich Canadian cheddar, roasted garlic, and a crunchy golden topping for an unforgettable family meal.

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How To Make Newfoundland Cheddar Cod Gratin

Step 1: Prepare the Cod

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Lightly season the cod with salt and pepper.

Place it in a lightly buttered baking dish and bake for 10–12 minutes, just until it begins to flake.

Remove from the oven and gently break the fish into large bite-sized pieces.

Set aside.

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Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.

Whisk in the flour and cook for one minute.

Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream until smooth.

Stir in:

• Roasted garlic
• Dijon mustard
• Paprika
• Onion powder

Cook until the sauce begins to thicken.

Reduce the heat and stir in the cheddar and Parmesan until melted and silky smooth.

Fold in the chopped parsley.

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Step 3: Assemble

Gently fold the flaky cod into the cheese sauce.

Transfer everything into a buttered 9×13-inch baking dish.

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Step 4: Make the Topping

Combine:

• Panko breadcrumbs
• Melted butter
• Parmesan
• Parsley
• Chives

Sprinkle evenly over the cod mixture.

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Step 5: Bake

Bake for 20–25 minutes, until bubbling around the edges and beautifully golden on top.

For an extra crispy finish, broil for 2–3 minutes.

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Canadian Cooking Adventures Tips

🐟 Choose Fresh Atlantic Cod

Fresh cod provides the best flaky texture and delicate flavor.

🧀 Use Sharp Canadian Cheddar

Aged cheddar creates a richer, bolder cheese sauce.

🧄 Roast the Garlic

Roasted garlic adds a mellow sweetness that complements the cod beautifully.

🥖 Don’t Skip the Panko

The crispy topping provides the perfect contrast to the creamy filling.

🌿 Finish with Fresh Herbs

A sprinkle of fresh parsley and chives brightens the dish and adds color.

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Serving Suggestions

Pair this comforting cod gratin with:

• Roasted asparagus
• Steamed green beans
• Garlic butter carrots
• Creamy mashed potatoes
• Buttered peas
• Fresh Caesar salad
• Homemade dinner rolls
• Crusty artisan bread

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen cod?

Yes. Thaw the cod completely and pat it dry before baking to prevent excess moisture.

Can I make it ahead?

Absolutely. Assemble the casserole up to one day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

Can I freeze it?

Yes. Freeze the fully assembled, unbaked gratin for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

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A Taste of Newfoundland Comfort

Few dishes capture the warmth of a Newfoundland kitchen quite like a bubbling pan of cod gratin fresh from the oven.

This Ultimate Newfoundland Cheddar Cod Gratin combines flaky Atlantic cod, creamy homemade cheddar sauce, roasted garlic, and a crispy herb topping into one unforgettable comfort meal. It’s the perfect balance of tradition and modern flavor—easy enough for a weeknight dinner, yet impressive enough for guests.

One bite, and you’ll understand why this cozy seafood casserole deserves a place at your family table for years to come.

Happy cooking!

Canadian Cooking Adventures
Exploring Canada’s culinary traditions—one delicious recipe at a time. 🐟🧀🍁