Cheesy Weeknight Fish Stick Casserole
This Cheesy Weeknight Fish Stick Casserole is the ultimate family-friendly meal. Crispy golden fish sticks sit on a creamy cheesy base that bakes into bubbly perfection. It’s a nostalgic comfort dish that’s also easy, budget-friendly, and customizable. Great for busy nights when you need something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen!
Total Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
Total Time: 40–45 minutes
Ingredients
20 frozen fish sticks (uncooked)
3 cups cooked pasta (like rotini or penne)
1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup (or cream of celery/chicken)
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup milk
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese (optional, for extra melt)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
Make the cheesy base:
In a large bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and 1 cup of cheddar cheese.
Add pasta:
Stir in the cooked pasta until evenly coated. Spread this mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Top with cheese and fish sticks:
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the pasta. Place frozen fish sticks in rows on top of the cheese.
Bake:
Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes or until the fish sticks are golden and crispy and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
Garnish and serve:
Let it cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle with parsley and serve warm!
Tips & Variations
Tips
Use frozen fish sticks directly: No need to thaw—just place them on top frozen for perfect crispiness.
Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole (except for the fish sticks) earlier in the day and refrigerate. Add the fish sticks right before baking.
Extra crispy topping: For added crunch, sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers over the cheese before baking.
Prevent sogginess: Bake uncovered so the fish sticks crisp up rather than steam.
Variations
Add veggies: Stir in frozen peas, corn, or steamed broccoli into the pasta mixture.
Switch the protein: Use popcorn shrimp, chicken nuggets, or even salmon bites for a twist.
Change the base: Replace cream of mushroom soup with a homemade béchamel or another cream soup for a different flavor.
Spicy kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture.
Q&A
Q: Can I use homemade fish sticks?
A: Absolutely! Homemade breaded fish pieces can be used—just pre-bake or pan-fry them slightly to ensure they crisp up.
Q: What pasta works best?
A: Short pasta like penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni holds the sauce well. Avoid long noodles.
Q: Can I make it gluten-free?
A: Yes! Use gluten-free pasta, cream soup, and fish sticks to make it fully gluten-free.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to keep the fish sticks crispy.
Nutrition Info (Per Serving – Estimated for 6 servings)
Varies based on brands and amounts used
Calories: 420
Protein: 20g
Fat: 22g
Carbs: 36g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 780mg
Conclusion
The Cheesy Weeknight Fish Stick Casserole is proof that comfort food can be quick, easy, and loved by all ages. With melty cheese, creamy pasta, and golden fish sticks on top, this dish delivers flavor and crunch in every bite. It’s ideal for busy evenings, and leftovers reheat beautifully. Customize it your way and make it a go-to in your weekly dinner rotation!