Looking for a flavorful and versatile seafood option? Look no further than cod! This mild-flavored fish is a great canvas for a wide range of sauces, from classic butter and lemon to spicy curry and creamy dill. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or rich and indulgent, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 18 delicious cod recipes with sauce.
From comforting weeknight meals to impressive dinner party options, these recipes showcase cod’s versatility and ability to pair well with a variety of flavors and textures. So go ahead, get creative, and try out some new twists on this classic fish!
Pan-Seared Cod with Lemon Butter Sauce
A classic combination of flavors and textures, this recipe yields a moist and flaky cod fillet paired with a tangy and creamy lemon butter sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse cod fillets under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add butter and cook until melted, about 1 minute.
4. Add garlic and lemon juice; stir for 30 seconds.
5. Place cod fillets in the skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side or until cooked through.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
7. Remove from oven and stir in chopped parsley.
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Cod
This recipe yields a rich and flavorful dish that combines the flaky texture of cod with the savory goodness of garlic, cream, and parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place cod fillets on the baking sheet, leaving space between each fillet.
4. Sprinkle garlic over the cod, dividing it evenly among the four fillets.
5. Pour heavy cream over the cod and garlic mixture, making sure each fillet is coated.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top of each fillet.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until fish is cooked through.
9. Garnish with dried parsley and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cod in Tomato Basil Sauce
A flavorful and aromatic seafood dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. This recipe combines the delicate flavor of cod with the sweetness of tomatoes and the freshness of basil.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon white wine (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add cherry tomatoes and cook until they release their juices, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Stir in chopped basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Place the tomato-basil mixture on top of the cod fillets.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
9. Serve hot, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Baked Cod with White Wine Sauce
Elevate your seafood game with this elegant and flavorful baked cod recipe, served with a rich white wine sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup white wine
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small saucepan, combine white wine, heavy cream, butter, garlic, and thyme. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Reduce heat to low and let sauce simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Brush cod with the sauce during the last 2 minutes of baking (12-15 minutes).
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spicy Coconut Curry Cod
This recipe combines the flaky texture of cod with the rich flavors of coconut and spice, creating a dish that’s both exotic and comforting.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 can full-fat coconut milk
– 2 tbsp curry powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp ground coriander
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp of oil over medium-high heat. Add the cod fillets and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until cooked through.
3. Remove the cod from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tbsp of oil, sliced onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in the curry powder, cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
6. Pour in the coconut milk and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
7. Return the cod fillets to the skillet and spoon some of the curry sauce over each piece.
8. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
9. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Cod with Mushroom Cream Sauce
This recipe combines tender cod fillets with a rich and creamy mushroom sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. With minimal prep time and simple cooking steps, you’ll be enjoying a flavorful and satisfying meal in no time!
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Season cod fillets with salt and pepper. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic and flour to the skillet; cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually whisk in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
6. Serve cod with mushroom cream sauce spooned over top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Blackened Cod with Cajun Remoulade
This recipe combines the bold flavors of blackening seasoning and spicy remoulade sauce to create a dish that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying this flavorful cod in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp blackening seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 cup Cajun remoulade sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season cod fillets with blackening seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
3. Heat butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add cod and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
4. Serve hot with Cajun remoulade sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Cod Piccata with Capers and Lemon
This Italian-inspired dish is a masterclass in simplicity, allowing the delicate flavor of cod to shine through. With a tangy lemon sauce and the salty kick of capers, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Season cod fillets with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add cod fillets and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Remove cod from skillet and set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and add white wine, chicken broth, lemon juice, and butter. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, scraping up any browned bits.
6. Stir in capers and cook for an additional minute.
7. Serve cod with sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Honey Mustard Glazed Cod
Elevate your seafood game with this sweet and tangy honey mustard glaze, perfectly balanced to complement the delicate flavor of cod.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine honey, Dijon mustard, and garlic. Cook over medium heat, stirring until smooth, about 2 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Place cod fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the honey mustard glaze evenly over each fillet.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until fish is cooked through, flakes easily with a fork.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cod in Creamy Dill Sauce
This classic Scandinavian-inspired dish is a delightful combination of tender cod, rich cream, and the brightness of fresh dill. Serve it with boiled potatoes or egg noodles for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges, optional
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the cod fillets under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in chopped dill and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place cod fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spoon the creamy dill sauce over each fillet.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Teriyaki Glazed Cod with Sesame Seeds
Sweet and savory teriyaki glaze pairs perfectly with flaky cod, topped with nutty sesame seeds for a delightful Asian-inspired dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– Cooking oil or cooking spray
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
3. Place cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and grated ginger.
5. Brush the glaze evenly over both sides of the cod fillets.
6. Sprinkle sesame seeds over the glazed cod.
7. Drizzle with cooking oil or spray with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cod with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
A flavorful and vibrant seafood dish that combines the tender flaky texture of cod with a sweet and smoky roasted red pepper sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the red bell peppers for 30-40 minutes or until charred.
3. Peel off the skin, remove seeds, and chop into pieces.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add cod fillets and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. In a blender or food processor, blend roasted red peppers with garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to form the sauce.
6. Serve the cod with the roasted red pepper sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cod in Beurre Blanc Sauce
Elevate your seafood game with this elegant and flavorful dish featuring tender cod paired with a rich, buttery beurre blanc sauce. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup white wine
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the cod fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Heat the butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the cod for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until cooked through. Transfer to the preheated oven and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until flaky.
4. While the cod is cooking, prepare the beurre blanc sauce: melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the white wine, heavy cream, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
5. Serve the cod with the warm beurre blanc sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Cod with Olive Tapenade
This Mediterranean-inspired dish combines the flaky goodness of cod with the savory, umami flavor of olive tapenade. A simple and flavorful recipe perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup olive tapenade
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together olive tapenade, parsley, garlic, and lemon juice.
5. Spoon the tapenade mixture evenly over each cod fillet.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Serve hot with fresh lemon wedges.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cod with Mango Salsa and Lime Drizzle
This tropical-inspired dish combines the delicate flavor of cod with the sweetness of mango and the brightness of lime, making it a perfect summer meal. With minimal prep time and simple cooking steps, this recipe is a great option for a quick and delicious dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together mango, red onion, jalapeño, and lime juice.
3. Season cod fillets with salt and pepper. Grill for 4-5 minutes per side or until cooked through.
4. Serve grilled cod with Mango Salsa spooned over the top. Drizzle with lime juice (if using) and garnish with cilantro leaves (optional).
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cod in Saffron Cream Sauce
A luxurious and flavorful dish that combines the tender flake of cod with a rich and aromatic saffron cream sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp saffron threads, soaked in 1 tsp hot water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the cod fillets with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the cod and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In a small saucepan, combine heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and saffron mixture. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Reduce the cream sauce by half, stirring occasionally. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
6. Serve the cod with the saffron cream sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto-Crusted Cod with Basil Aioli
This recipe combines the rich flavors of pesto and basil aioli to create a mouthwatering seafood dish. Pan-seared cod is coated in a vibrant green pesto crust, served with a creamy basil aioli for dipping.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
– Basil Aioli ingredients:
+ 1 ripe avocado, mashed
+ 2 cloves garlic, minced
+ 1/4 cup freshly made pesto
+ Lemon juice, to taste
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix panko breadcrumbs with pesto.
3. Season cod fillets with salt and pepper.
4. Coat cod in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Pan-sear cod for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot with Basil Aioli (mix all aioli ingredients in a bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes).
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cod with Brown Butter and Sage Sauce
This recipe combines the delicate flavor of cod with the rich, nutty taste of brown butter and the earthy sweetness of sage. The result is a simple yet impressive dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the cod fillets under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the chopped sage and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
5. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Cook, stirring constantly, until the butter turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma (about 2-3 minutes).
6. Place the cod fillets in the skillet with the brown butter sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 8-10 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Discover the versatility of cod with these 18 mouthwatering recipes, each paired with a delicious sauce to elevate your meal. From classic lemon butter and creamy parmesan to spicy coconut curry and Mediterranean olive tapenade, there’s something for every taste and occasion. Try pan-seared cod with a zesty lemon butter sauce, or opt for a rich beurre blanc. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or bold and adventurous, this collection of recipes will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen.