Name: Pan-Seared Cod with Garlic Cream Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cod fillets (6 ounces each); Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon paprika; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Lemon wedges (for serving)

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Introduction

This pan-seared cod with garlic cream sauce is a simple yet impressive dish that combines tender, flaky fish with a rich, flavorful sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s sure to satisfy seafood lovers with its creamy, garlicky goodness.

Three pieces of golden-brown seared fish with visible grill marks are stacked slightly overlapping in the center of a deep white bowl. The fish has a flaky texture with small green herb sprinkles on top. The base is filled with a creamy light yellow sauce with small pieces of browned garlic and sprigs of fresh green herbs visible around the edges. The bowl rests on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 cod fillets (6 ounces each)
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Step 2: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
Step 3: Carefully add the seasoned cod fillets to the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Step 5: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring it to a gentle simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
Step 6: Reduce heat to low and slowly add the heavy cream, stirring constantly until combined.
Step 7: Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Season with additional salt and pepper if desired.
Step 8: Return the seared cod fillets to the skillet and spoon the garlic cream sauce over the fish. Allow it to heat through for another 2 minutes.
Step 9: Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh touch.
Step 10: Transfer the cod and sauce to a serving platter. Serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh cod fillets for the best texture and flavor; if frozen, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
For a lighter sauce, substitute half of the heavy cream with milk or use a lower-fat cream option.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic for a subtle spicy kick.
Try garnishing with fresh dill or chives if parsley isn’t available.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent the cream sauce from breaking. Avoid microwaving if possible to maintain the best texture.

How to Serve

Two thick pieces of seared white fish with a golden-brown crispy top layer sprinkled with finely chopped green herbs sit on a creamy light yellow sauce mixed with small green leafy bits and red specks. The fish fillets have a soft, moist texture visible on the sides with subtle cuts. They rest closely on a smooth, white plate that contrasts with the vibrant colors of the dish. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use another type of fish instead of cod?

Yes, firm white fish like halibut, haddock, or tilapia work well with this recipe and will yield similar results.

How can I tell when the cod is fully cooked?

The cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque all the way through. Cooking time can vary slightly depending on thickness, so keep an eye on it.