If you’re craving a dish that has it all—comfort, flavor, and a touch of elegance—this Creamy Cod and Potato Skillet Recipe is exactly what you need on your dinner table tonight. The tender flakes of cod combined with buttery, herb-infused potatoes create a dreamy marriage of textures and tastes, all brought together with a luscious cream sauce that feels like a warm hug. It’s simple enough for a weeknight, yet special enough to impress family or friends. This recipe is a fabulous way to enjoy fresh fish and hearty potatoes in one delightful skillet, making cleanup just as easy as cooking.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for the Creamy Cod and Potato Skillet Recipe is a breeze because each one plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, creaminess, and satisfying texture. From the fragrant herbs to the tender cod and the starchy potatoes, everything works in harmony to create a wholesome, tasty meal.
- 4 cod fillets (about 1 lb): Choose fresh or thawed cod for mild, flaky fish that soaks up the flavors beautifully.
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced: Thin slices ensure quick and even cooking, creating a tender bed for the fish.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a fruity richness and helps soften the onions perfectly.
- 1 small onion, diced: Offers sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings aromatic warmth that enhances the entire dish.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds moisture and savory notes without overpowering the delicate seafood flavor.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Infuses the skillet with luscious creaminess and a rich mouthfeel.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Introduces subtle herbal earthiness.
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley: Brightens the dish with fresh, mild herbal accents.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional): Adds a golden, cheesy crust if you want a little extra indulgence.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Provides a fresh, vibrant finish to the skillet’s creamy richness.
How to Make Creamy Cod and Potato Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and cook gently for 3 to 4 minutes until they soften and just begin to turn translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and let it cook for about one more minute until it smells heavenly but hasn’t browned yet—this builds the perfect flavor foundation for your dish.
Step 2: Prepare and Cook the Potatoes
Next, layer your thinly sliced potatoes evenly over the softened onions and garlic in the skillet. Sprinkle salt, pepper, thyme, and parsley across the potatoes to infuse them with savory, herby goodness. Pour in the chicken broth to add moisture that will steam the potatoes tender. Cover the skillet tightly and let this simmer for 10 to 12 minutes until the potatoes are soft and cooked through—this creates the cozy, flavorful base your cod will rest on.
Step 3: Season the Cod
While the potatoes soften, pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with a little salt and pepper. This simple step ensures your fish is perfectly seasoned to complement the creamy potatoes.
Step 4: Add Cod and Cream, Then Finish Cooking
Once the potatoes are tender, gently place the seasoned cod fillets right on top of the potatoes in the skillet. Pour the heavy cream over the fish and potatoes to envelop everything in a rich, silky sauce. Cover again and let it cook for around 8 to 10 minutes, or until the cod flakes easily with a fork—this signals it’s cooked to moist perfection.
Step 5: Add Parmesan (Optional) and Garnish
If you’re in the mood for a cheesy twist, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the skillet in the last 2 minutes of cooking and cover again. The cheese will melt and create an irresistible golden crust that adds even more texture to your Creamy Cod and Potato Skillet Recipe. Finally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving to add a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness.
How to Serve Creamy Cod and Potato Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only brightens the appearance but also adds a subtle, fresh herbaceous note that balances the richness of the cream. For an extra touch, a twist of lemon zest over the top can bring a lively citrus accent that cuts through the creaminess beautifully.
Side Dishes
This skillet is quite a satisfying one-dish meal, but you can pair it with a crisp green salad or steamed seasonal veggies like asparagus or green beans to add some fresh crunch and color contrast. A crusty slice of bread works wonders to sop up the luscious sauce—and who doesn’t love that?
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming presentation, serve straight from the skillet at the table, encouraging everyone to dive into the creamy mix. Alternatively, plate individual portions with a drizzle of extra cream or a light drizzle of good olive oil for a restaurant-style finish that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The dish tastes great cold or gently reheated, as the flavors meld even further overnight.
Freezing
This recipe is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze leftovers if needed. Place portions in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 1 month. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results, as frozen cream sauces can sometimes separate if reheated too quickly.
Reheating
Reheat the skillet portion gently on the stovetop over low heat to avoid curdling the cream. Stir occasionally to warm evenly, or microwave covered in short bursts, stirring between intervals to keep everything creamy and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use other types of fish in this Creamy Cod and Potato Skillet Recipe?
Absolutely! White fish such as haddock, tilapia, or halibut work just as well, giving you a similar mild flavor and flaky texture that pairs perfectly with the creamy potatoes.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cooking cream, and skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative to keep the dish creamy and delicious while accommodating dairy restrictions.
What kind of potatoes work best for this recipe?
Starchy or all-purpose potatoes like Yukon Gold or Russet are ideal because they cook evenly and become tender without falling apart, creating that perfect creamy base for your cod.
Is it possible to add vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Spinach or thinly sliced zucchini can be layered with the potatoes or added near the end of cooking to introduce some extra greens and brighten the flavor profile.
How do I know when the cod is perfectly cooked?
When the cod flakes easily with a fork and turns opaque white all the way through, it’s done. Overcooking can dry it out, so watch closely during the final cooking stage.
Final Thoughts
Trying the Creamy Cod and Potato Skillet Recipe truly feels like a moment of culinary joy every time. It’s one of those meals you’ll want to make again and again—not just because it’s simple and quick, but because it consistently delivers on comfort and taste. So grab your skillet, gather those humble ingredients, and treat yourself to this cozy, creamy delight that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
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Creamy Cod and Potato Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Creamy Cod and Potato Skillet is a comforting and flavorful one-pan meal featuring tender cod fillets cooked atop a bed of soft, seasoned potatoes in a luscious cream sauce. Quick to prepare and easy to cook, it combines simple ingredients like cod, potatoes, garlic, and herbs for a wholesome dinner perfect for any night of the week.
Ingredients
Fish and Potatoes
- 4 cod fillets (about 1 lb)
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Seasonings
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings and Garnish
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Sauté Onions: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent, enhancing its natural sweetness.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant, making sure not to burn it.
- Cook Potatoes: Layer the thinly sliced potatoes evenly on the bottom of the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, dried thyme, and dried parsley. Pour the chicken broth over the potatoes, cover the skillet with a lid, and cook on medium heat for 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Prepare Cod: While the potatoes are cooking, season both sides of the cod fillets with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavor.
- Cook Cod and Cream: Once the potatoes are tender, gently place the cod fillets on top of the potatoes in the skillet. Pour the heavy cream evenly over the cod and potatoes. Cover again and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the cod is opaque, flakes easily with a fork, and is cooked through.
- Add Parmesan (Optional): If desired, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the skillet during the last 2 minutes of cooking. This will allow the cheese to melt and create a flavorful cheesy crust.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve the dish hot for a creamy, satisfying meal.
Notes
- Use fresh cod fillets for the best texture and flavor, but frozen cod can be used if thawed properly.
- Thinly slicing potatoes ensures they cook quickly and evenly in the skillet.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the amount of chicken broth slightly or simmer uncovered for a few minutes after adding the cream.
- The Parmesan cheese is optional but adds a nice savory depth; you can substitute with mozzarella or omit dairy for a lighter version.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and gently reheated on the stovetop.
