Creamy Cod and Potato Skillet

If you’re looking for a simple yet hearty dish that’s bursting with flavor, let me introduce you to Creamy Cod and Potato Skillet. Picture this: tender pieces of cod nestled alongside perfectly cooked potatoes, all enveloped in a luscious, creamy sauce that’s just rich enough to make every bite feel indulgent without weighing you down. This one-pan wonder is as comforting as it is easy, making it the perfect weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal when you want something that’s low-effort but big on flavor.

Trust me when I say this is a dish you’ll crave again and again. The creamy sauce is flavored just right with garlic, herbs, and a touch of lemon, complementing the mild fish and crispy potatoes perfectly. It’s the kind of dish you’ll find yourself making over and over—because who doesn’t love a meal that’s this satisfying?

Why You’ll Love Creamy Cod and Potato Skillet

Here’s why this dish is bound to become a family favorite:

One Pan Wonder: Everything cooks in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze. No need for multiple pots and pans—just a few simple steps and you’ve got a delicious dinner.

Flavors That Wow: The creamy sauce, paired with tender cod and crispy potatoes, creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The garlic, lemon, and herbs elevate the dish to something special.

Quick and Easy: With a prep time of just a few minutes, this recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight. The cooking process is straightforward and doesn’t require any fancy techniques.

Comforting but Light: The creamy sauce is rich but not overwhelming, and the cod is light and flaky, so you can enjoy all the comforting flavors without feeling heavy afterward.

Kid-Friendly: If you have picky eaters, this dish is a great way to sneak in some fish and vegetables without the complaints. The creamy sauce makes it so approachable!

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Ingredients in Creamy Cod and Potato Skillet

This dish uses simple ingredients you likely have in your kitchen, but the combination of them creates something extraordinary:

Cod Fillets

The star of the show! Cod is a mild, flaky white fish that cooks up perfectly in this creamy sauce.

Potatoes

Baby potatoes or russet potatoes work beautifully in this recipe. They cook up crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making them the perfect base for the creamy sauce.

Olive Oil

For sautéing the potatoes and adding a little richness to the dish.

Garlic

Fresh garlic adds that irresistible savory depth and aroma to the dish. You can’t go wrong with garlic!

Onion

A bit of onion brings a sweet, savory flavor that enhances the overall dish. It pairs perfectly with the garlic and cod.

Heavy Cream

The base of the creamy sauce. It’s rich and luscious, making this dish feel indulgent without being overly heavy.

Chicken Broth

A bit of chicken broth adds flavor and helps to thin out the sauce without making it too greasy.

Lemon Juice

A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds a burst of brightness that cuts through the richness of the cream and complements the fish.

Fresh Herbs (like Parsley or Thyme)

A handful of fresh herbs for a pop of freshness and flavor. They really make the dish come alive.

Salt and Pepper

Basic seasonings, but absolutely essential for bringing all the flavors together.

Instructions

Let’s get cooking! This recipe is simple, and before you know it, you’ll have a delicious, creamy skillet dinner on the table.

Cook the Potatoes

Start by heating a little olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your diced potatoes and cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy on the outside but tender inside. Once done, remove the potatoes from the skillet and set them aside.

Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed, and toss in the chopped onion and garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

Cook the Cod

Season the cod fillets with a bit of salt and pepper, then place them in the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the fish is just cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Once done, remove the fish from the skillet and set it aside with the potatoes.

Make the Creamy Sauce

To the same skillet, add the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet (that’s where the flavor lives!). Let the sauce simmer for a couple of minutes until it thickens slightly.

Bring It All Together

Return the potatoes and cod to the skillet, gently nestling the fish into the sauce. Squeeze in the lemon juice and sprinkle with fresh herbs. Stir everything gently to combine, then let it simmer for another 3-4 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

Serve and Enjoy!

Serve the creamy cod and potatoes hot, garnished with extra fresh herbs and a slice of lemon on the side if you like.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: Approximately 400-450 calories (varies depending on ingredients used)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve Creamy Cod and Potato Skillet

This dish is hearty and satisfying on its own, but here are a few ideas to round out the meal:

  • With Steamed Vegetables: Pair this creamy skillet with a side of lightly steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or asparagus, for added color and nutrients.
  • With a Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the skillet perfectly.
  • With Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of warm, crusty bread to sop up that delicious creamy sauce—trust me, you won’t want to leave any behind!

Additional Tips

  • Swap the Fish: If you don’t have cod, you can substitute any mild white fish, such as tilapia or halibut.
  • Make It Dairy-Free: To make this dish dairy-free, you can swap the heavy cream for coconut milk and use a dairy-free butter or oil for cooking.
  • Customize the Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, peas, or bell peppers to the skillet for extra flavor and nutrition.
  • Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use frozen cod fillets?
A1: Yes! Just be sure to thaw the cod fillets before cooking, or cook them from frozen for a little longer, but make sure they’re fully cooked through.

Q2: What other herbs can I use in this dish?
A2: You can use any herbs you like! Dill, basil, or tarragon would work beautifully in this dish.

Q3: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A3: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the potatoes and fish ahead of time. Then, when you’re ready to cook, it’ll be quick and easy to assemble.

Q4: Can I use a different type of potato?
A4: Absolutely! Yukon golds or even sweet potatoes would work well in this dish. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, depending on the type of potato you use.

Q5: How do I know when the cod is fully cooked?
A5: Cod should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. If it’s still translucent in the center, it needs a little more time to cook.

Conclusion

This Creamy Cod and Potato Skillet is a perfect mix of simplicity and comfort. It’s a quick, one-pan dinner that’s rich in flavor, yet light enough for a weeknight meal. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is easy to follow and packed with flavor. So, grab your skillet and get ready to enjoy this comforting, creamy dish!

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Creamy Cod and Potato Skillet


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  • Author: Olivia
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

This Creamy Cod and Potato Skillet is a simple yet hearty one-pan meal that combines tender cod fillets with creamy potatoes. The dish is cooked in a savory garlic and herb-infused cream sauce, making it the perfect comforting meal for any night of the week. It’s easy to make and packed with flavor, making it a family favorite.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cod fillets (about 1 lb)
  • 3 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until softened.
  2. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Layer the sliced potatoes on the bottom of the skillet and season with salt, pepper, thyme, and parsley. Pour in the chicken broth and cover the skillet. Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
  4. While the potatoes cook, season the cod fillets with salt and pepper on both sides.
  5. Once the potatoes are tender, place the cod fillets on top of the potatoes in the skillet. Pour the heavy cream over the cod and potatoes, then cover the skillet again. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
  6. If desired, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the skillet during the last 2 minutes of cooking for a cheesy finish.
  7. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

  • If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative like coconut milk.
  • This dish pairs perfectly with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple salad.
  • For extra flavor, you can add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving to brighten up the dish.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Skillet
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

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