If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug from your kitchen, look no further than this Creamy Cod and Potato Skillet Recipe. It’s a beautifully balanced meal where tender cod fillets and thinly sliced potatoes bask in a luscious, herb-infused cream sauce. Every bite melds savory, silky, and subtly cheesy flavors with the delicate texture of fish and the comforting heartiness of potatoes. This recipe is straightforward, comforting, and perfect for those evenings when you want something both impressive and effortless.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple but essential ingredients is all it takes to create a meal bursting with flavor and texture. Each item plays its part in adding depth and vibrancy to the dish, making this Creamy Cod and Potato Skillet Recipe come alive in every bite.
- 4 cod fillets (about 1 lb): Fresh or thawed cod is tender and mild, soaking up all the creamy goodness perfectly.
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced: Thin slices cook evenly, creating a soft base that absorbs flavors beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a subtle richness and helps sauté the aromatics to golden perfection.
- 1 small onion, diced: Brings natural sweetness and a delicate crunch when softened.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with a fragrant, savory kick without overpowering the cod.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Keeps the potatoes moist while layering in a savory depth.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: The star of the creamy sauce, giving the skillet its luxuriously silky texture.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds an earthy, slightly minty tone balancing the creaminess.
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley: Brightens the dish and complements the fresh garnish later on.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing every flavor component harmoniously.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional): Introduces a golden, melty finish with a sharp, nutty punch.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Provides a fresh, herbaceous lift that makes each plate pop.
How to Make Creamy Cod and Potato Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté it gently for about 3 to 4 minutes until it softens and begins to turn translucent. This step unlocks the natural sweetness of the onion, forming a savory base for the entire dish.
Step 2: Add Garlic
Next up, toss in the minced garlic. Cook it for just one minute, stirring often, to release its fragrant aroma without turning bitter. Garlic is a game-changer here, lending depth and warmth that kicks the flavor profile into high gear early on.
Step 3: Cook the Potatoes
Layer those thin potato slices evenly across the skillet’s bottom, seasoning generously with salt, pepper, dried thyme, and parsley. Pour in the chicken broth and cover the skillet. Let the potatoes simmer gently for 10 to 12 minutes until they’re fork-tender, soaking in all the infused herby broth.
Step 4: Season the Cod
While the potatoes are cooking, take a moment to season the cod fillets with salt and pepper on both sides. This simple yet crucial step ensures every bite of fish has balanced seasoning that shines through the creamy sauce.
Step 5: Add Cod & Cream
Once the potatoes have become tender, nestle the cod fillets gently on top of them in the skillet. Pour the heavy cream evenly over the entire skillet, then cover it again. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes until the cod flakes easily with a fork, allowing the creamy goodness to meld beautifully with the fish and potatoes.
Step 6: Add Cheese (Optional)
If you’re feeling indulgent, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the surface during the last couple of minutes of cooking. This melts into a golden, cheesy layer that adds a wonderful richness and a little extra punch of flavor.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finally, scatter chopped fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and herbaceous freshness. This skillet is now ready to be served piping hot, a cozy, creamy dish that’s as inviting as it is satisfying.
How to Serve Creamy Cod and Potato Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic finishing touch that adds a lively green contrast both visually and flavor-wise. For a little flair, a lemon wedge on the side brightens the creaminess with a zesty pop that everyone will love.
Side Dishes
Pair this creamy cod skillet with a crisp green salad or steamed seasonal vegetables for a balanced plate. Light, fresh sides help accentuate the rich sauce without competing with the tender fish and potatoes.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve in the skillet itself for a rustic feel or plate individually with a drizzle of extra cream sauce spooned over the top. For gatherings, sprinkle some toasted breadcrumbs to add crunch and visual appeal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cool the remaining Creamy Cod and Potato Skillet Recipe to room temperature, then store it airtight in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to two days, making it perfect for next-day meals without sacrificing flavor.
Freezing
This dish doesn’t freeze beautifully because cream-based sauces and delicate fish textures can separate or become watery. For best results, enjoy the leftovers fresh or refrigerated.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to reincorporate the sauce. Avoid high heat to keep the cod tender and prevent the cream sauce from curdling.
FAQs
Can I substitute the cod with another type of fish?
Absolutely! White flaky fish like haddock, tilapia, or pollock work wonderfully and adapt well to the creamy sauce.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
You can swap the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative, and omit the Parmesan cheese to keep it dairy-free while maintaining creaminess.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Since this recipe naturally contains no gluten ingredients, it’s gluten-free as long as your chicken broth and seasonings are labeled gluten-free.
What side dishes would go well with this skillet?
Roasted asparagus, steamed green beans, or a fresh arugula salad complement this dish beautifully and add a light, fresh contrast.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe ahead of time?
You can slice the potatoes and dice the onions a day ahead, storing them in sealed containers. Cooking everything right before serving ensures optimal texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Cod and Potato Skillet Recipe is one of those meals that feels effortlessly special and homey at the same time. It’s a perfect recipe to treat yourself or share with friends and family during a cozy dinner. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy cod and potatoes together in one delicious, creamy skillet.
Print
Creamy Cod and Potato Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Cod and Potato Skillet is a comforting and easy-to-make one-pan dish featuring tender cod fillets cooked atop a bed of thinly sliced, herb-seasoned potatoes. The dish is enriched with a creamy sauce made from chicken broth and heavy cream, accented with garlic, onions, and Parmesan cheese for an added depth of flavor. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers a harmonious blend of creamy, savory, and fresh notes in every bite.
Ingredients
Fish and Potatoes
- 4 cod fillets (about 1 lb)
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
Aromatics and Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Liquids and Cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
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, building the flavor base.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Cook Potatoes: Layer the thinly sliced potatoes evenly at the bottom of the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and parsley. Pour in the chicken broth, cover the skillet with a lid, and cook for 10-12 minutes until the potatoes are tender but still hold their shape.
- Season Cod: While the potatoes cook, pat the cod fillets dry and season both sides with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Add Cod and Cream: Once the potatoes are tender, carefully place the seasoned cod fillets on top of the potato layer. Pour the heavy cream evenly over the fish and potatoes. Return the lid and continue cooking for 8-10 minutes until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Add Parmesan: Optional step: sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the skillet during the last 2 minutes of cooking for a rich, cheesy finish that adds an extra savory note.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve hot for a creamy, delicious meal.
Notes
- Use firm, fresh cod for best results; if unavailable, other white fish fillets such as haddock or pollock can be substituted.
- Thinly slicing the potatoes ensures even cooking; use a mandoline slicer if available for uniform slices.
- Covering the skillet while cooking helps steam the potatoes and fish gently, keeping them tender and moist.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce will be less rich.
- Parmesan cheese is optional but adds a delicious umami boost; omit if keeping the dish dairy-free.
