If you’re searching for a comforting meal that brings together delicate flaky fish and tender, creamy potatoes in one pan, this Creamy Cod and Potato Skillet Recipe is about to become your new favorite. It’s a beautiful harmony of flavors and textures, where the mildness of cod meets the rich creaminess of a gently simmered skillet sauce, all infused with fragrant herbs and a hint of garlic. Whether you’re cooking for weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish offers simplicity and elegance with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the straightforward list fool you—each ingredient plays an essential role in transforming simple staples into a soul-satisfying dish. From the tender cod fillets to the silky potatoes, the wholesome broth, and creamy touch of heavy cream, every element brings texture, flavor, and that irresistible warmth to the skillet.
- Cod fillets (4, about 1 lb): Choose fresh, firm fillets for the best flaky texture, which soaks up the creamy sauce wonderfully.
- Potatoes (3 medium, peeled and thinly sliced): Thin slices ensure quick cooking and a perfect tender bite beneath the fish.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): A splash of quality olive oil helps soften onions and garlic, building the flavor base.
- Small onion (1, diced): Adds a subtle sweetness that mellows and rounds out the sauce beautifully.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Gives a fragrant boost without overpowering the delicate fish.
- Chicken broth (1/2 cup): Moistens the potatoes as they cook and provides savory depth.
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Enriches the skillet to luxurious creaminess that defines this recipe.
- Dried thyme (1 teaspoon): Imparts an earthy herbal note that brightens the dish.
- Dried parsley (1 teaspoon): Adds freshness and a touch of green in flavor and aroma.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings to balance and enhance every ingredient.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup, optional): Sprinkle at the end for a nutty, golden crust that’s pure indulgence.
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish): A fresh pop of color and flavor to finish the dish beautifully.
How to Make Creamy Cod and Potato Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Start by warming the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat; this gentle sizzle wakes up the flavors. Add the diced onion and let it soften for about 3 to 4 minutes until translucent and sweetly fragrant. Then, toss in the minced garlic, cooking for just another minute so it becomes aromatic without turning bitter. These first steps create the aromatic foundation your dish deserves.
Step 2: Cook the Potatoes with Herbs
Next, arrange the thinly sliced potatoes evenly on the bottom of the skillet—this layering ensures each piece cooks perfectly and absorbs the surrounding flavors. Season generously with salt, pepper, dried thyme, and parsley before pouring in the chicken broth. Cover the skillet to trap steam and cook the potatoes gently for about 10 to 12 minutes until they’re tender but not mushy, soaking up all those seasoned aromas.
Step 3: Prepare the Cod Fillets
While your potatoes soften, take a moment to season the cod fillets with salt and pepper on both sides. This simple seasoning invites the delicate fish’s natural flavors to shine through once it hits the skillet.
Step 4: Layer the Cod and Add Cream
Once the potatoes are tender, nestle the seasoned cod fillets right on top of them in the skillet. Pour the heavy cream gently over the fish and potatoes, allowing it to mingle with the cooking juices and create that famed creamy texture. Cover again, and let everything cook together for about 8 to 10 minutes, until the cod is just cooked through—opaque and flaking easily with a fork.
Step 5: Add a Cheesy Finish (Optional)
If you’re in the mood for a little extra indulgence, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the skillet during the last two minutes of cooking. It melts into a golden, savory crust that’s nothing short of addictive. Don’t forget to garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley to brighten the flavors and add a lovely burst of green.
How to Serve Creamy Cod and Potato Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley is the classic finishing touch here, providing a fresh, herbal lift that balances the richness of cream and cheese. A light sprinkle of lemon zest or a quick squeeze of lemon juice can also add a zesty brightness if you’re feeling adventurous!
Side Dishes
This creamy cod and potato skillet needs little accompaniment, but a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli can add a refreshing crunch and vibrant color contrast. A crusty bread alongside is perfect for soaking up every last drop of sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings, serve this dish family-style straight from the skillet for an inviting rustic charm. Alternatively, portion the fish and potatoes onto individual plates and drizzle with any pan sauce left behind. Adding microgreens or edible flowers on top can transform the plate into an elegant visual masterpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers of this Creamy Cod and Potato Skillet Recipe keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The flavors deepen overnight, making for an even more comforting next-day meal.
Freezing
While fresh is always best for texture, you can freeze portions of the cooked dish if needed. Wrap tightly in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently to maintain the tender fish and creamy sauce.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a covered skillet over low heat or in a microwave set to medium power. Add a splash of cream or broth if the sauce has thickened too much, stirring gently to warm through without overcooking the fish.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of fish in this recipe?
Absolutely! While cod is ideal for its mild flavor and flaky texture, you can substitute with haddock, pollock, or even salmon for a richer taste. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can swap the heavy cream for coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative, and omit the Parmesan cheese to keep it dairy-free while still maintaining that luscious creaminess.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
You can prep the potatoes and sauté the onions and garlic ahead of time, but it’s best to cook the fish just before serving to enjoy the freshest texture and flavor.
What if I don’t have chicken broth?
Vegetable broth or even water with a pinch of salt can work in a pinch, though broth adds that extra savory depth that makes this dish so special.
How do I know when the cod is fully cooked?
The cod is done when it turns opaque and flakes easily when gently tested with a fork, typically after 8 to 10 minutes of gentle cooking in the skillet.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have this Creamy Cod and Potato Skillet Recipe in your cooking arsenal, you’re all set to make a meal that feels like a warm embrace on a plate. It’s simple, elegant, and utterly delicious—a perfect dish to share with friends, family, or just enjoy as a special treat for yourself. Don’t hesitate, dive into this creamy, comforting skillet tonight and create some happy mealtime memories!
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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 over a bed of thinly sliced potatoes in a rich, creamy sauce infused with garlic, herbs, and a touch of Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a quick yet elegant dinner that combines delicate seafood with hearty potatoes, all cooked together in a skillet for easy cleanup.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 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
- 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, setting the base flavor for the dish.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Cook Potatoes: Arrange the thinly sliced potatoes in an even layer at the bottom of the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, dried thyme, and dried parsley. Pour in the chicken broth, then cover the skillet and simmer for 10-12 minutes until the potatoes are tender through but still hold their shape.
- Season Cod: While the potatoes are cooking, pat the cod fillets dry and season both sides with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavor.
- Cook Cod with Cream: Once the potatoes are tender, gently place the seasoned cod fillets atop the potatoes in the skillet. Pour the heavy cream evenly over the fish and potatoes. Cover the skillet again and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the cod flakes easily with a fork and is cooked through.
- Add Parmesan (Optional): In the last 2 minutes of cooking, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the cod and potatoes if using. This will melt to form a delicious cheesy finish.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat, garnish with fresh chopped parsley, and serve the creamy cod and potatoes hot for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter or dairy-free version, though it will alter the creaminess slightly.
- Using fresh herbs instead of dried thyme and parsley will add a brighter flavor.
- Ensure potatoes are sliced thinly for even cooking and tenderness.
- Covering the skillet during cooking traps steam and helps cook the potatoes and fish gently and evenly.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated carefully to avoid drying out the fish.
- For a pescatarian adaptation, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
