Creamy Cod and Potato Skillet Recipe
If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, let me introduce you to the Creamy Cod and Potato Skillet Recipe. This dish combines tender, flaky cod with velvety potatoes simmered in a luscious cream sauce that’s seasoned just right with garlic, Dijon mustard, and a touch of thyme. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and a perfect way to turn simple ingredients into an elegant, satisfying dinner you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role, keeping things simple yet delivering a symphony of flavors and textures. From the rich creaminess to the fresh zing of mustard and the earthiness of thyme, these essentials come together effortlessly.
- Cod fillets (1 1/2 pounds): Fresh or thawed, cut into chunks to ensure even cooking and tender flakes.
- Yukon gold potatoes (4 medium): Thinly sliced for quick simmering and creamy texture without mashing.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Adds a subtle fruity base and helps soften onions perfectly.
- Small onion (1, finely chopped): Infuses sweetness and depth that builds the flavor foundation.
- Garlic cloves (2, minced): Gives the dish its aromatic punch, balanced by the cream.
- Chicken or vegetable broth (1/2 cup): Brings moisture with gentle savory notes while cooking potatoes.
- Heavy cream (3/4 cup): Provides irresistible richness essential for that creamy sauce effect.
- Dijon mustard (1 teaspoon): Brightens and lifts the cream sauce with a subtle tang.
- Dried thyme (1/2 teaspoon): Adds an earthy, herbal note that complements the fish beautifully.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Crucial for seasoning every layer of the dish perfectly.
- Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup, grated): Melts on top for a nutty, savory finish.
- Fresh parsley (for garnish): Brings fresh green color and a mild herbal brightness to the plate.
How to Make Creamy Cod and Potato Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook it slowly until it’s soft and translucent, about four minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds just until fragrant—this layering builds a fragrant base you’ll notice with every bite.
Step 2: Cook the Potatoes
Add the thinly sliced Yukon gold potatoes to the skillet, tossing them gently with salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Pour in the broth, cover with a lid, and let everything simmer so the potatoes become tender but still hold their shape. This usually takes about 10 to 12 minutes, and you’ll want to peek occasionally to make sure they’re cooking evenly.
Step 3: Add the Cream and Cod
While the potatoes cook, mix the heavy cream with Dijon mustard in a small bowl until smooth. Pour this luscious mixture over the potatoes in the skillet. Nestle the cod chunks gently into the creamy potato mixture to give them room to cook without breaking apart. Cover and simmer over low heat for 7 to 10 minutes, just until the fish flakes easily and absorbs the sauce’s flavors.
Step 4: Finish with Cheese and Parsley
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan evenly over the skillet. Allow it a minute or two to melt slightly, creating a subtle crust of savory flavor on top. Just before serving, scatter freshly chopped parsley to add a bright, fresh note that perfectly balances the creamy richness.
How to Serve Creamy Cod and Potato Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness that cuts through the richness beautifully. If you want a bit more texture and flavor, a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a squeeze of lemon over the top enhances the brightness even more.
Side Dishes
This skillet is hearty enough on its own, but if you’re looking to round out the meal, serve it alongside a crisp green salad or some steamed green beans for crunch and color. A piece of crusty bread is also fantastic here, perfect for soaking up every last bit of that creamy, dreamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual portions in shallow bowls for a rustic, casual feel or plate it elegantly with a little drizzle of herb-infused oil around the edge. For a family-style dinner, present the skillet straight from the stove so everyone can help themselves—there’s something so inviting about that!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to two days. The potatoes will absorb even more flavor overnight, making for a delicious next-day meal.
Freezing
While the creamy texture is best fresh, you can freeze leftovers for up to one month. Use a freezer-safe container and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve the cream’s smooth richness as much as possible.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of broth or cream to loosen it up and keep that silky mouthfeel you love about the Creamy Cod and Potato Skillet Recipe.
FAQs
Can I use another type of fish instead of cod?
Absolutely! Firm white fish like haddock, pollock, or halibut work wonderfully in this recipe, offering similar texture and flavor that pairs well with the creamy sauce and potatoes.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
If you prefer a lighter option, half-and-half can be used, which still gives creamy richness but with less fat. For a dairy-free version, coconut milk or cashew cream can offer a delicious alternative with a subtle twist.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat-based ingredients, making it a safe and tasty meal option for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I add vegetables to the skillet?
Yes! Adding spinach, peas, or even thinly sliced bell peppers at the simmering stage adds color, nutrients, and extra layers of flavor that make the dish even more vibrant.
What wine pairs well with Creamy Cod and Potato Skillet Recipe?
A crisp, unoaked white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a dry Riesling complements the creamy, delicate flavors of cod and potato without overpowering the dish.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend the Creamy Cod and Potato Skillet Recipe enough—it’s the kind of meal that feels both indulgent and wholesome at the same time. Whether you’re cooking for your family or a special guest, it’s straightforward yet impressive, comforting yet fresh. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes your go-to recipe for a cozy night in!
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Creamy Cod and Potato Skillet Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Creamy Cod and Potato Skillet is a comforting and flavorful one-pan dinner, featuring tender chunks of cod simmered with thinly sliced Yukon gold potatoes in a luscious cream and Dijon mustard sauce. Enhanced with savory onions, garlic, and a hint of thyme, finished with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, this dish offers a perfect balance of creamy, savory flavors that come together quickly on the stovetop for an easy and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Fish and Vegetables
- 1 1/2 pounds cod fillets, cut into chunks
- 4 medium Yukon gold potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Pan Sauce and Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook Potatoes: Add the thinly sliced Yukon gold potatoes to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Stir well to coat the potatoes with the seasoning and onion mixture. Pour in the broth, cover the skillet with a lid, and let the potatoes simmer for 10 to 12 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Add Cream Mixture and Cod: In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and Dijon mustard until combined. Pour this creamy mixture into the skillet over the potatoes. Gently nestle the cod chunks into the skillet, making sure they are partially submerged in the sauce. Cover the skillet again and cook for 7 to 10 minutes, until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Finish with Cheese and Garnish: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the skillet. Allow the cheese to melt slightly into the sauce. Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy the dish warm, ideally with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream to reduce richness.
- Add fresh spinach or peas during the final cooking step for added color and nutrients.
- Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
- Ensure potatoes are sliced uniformly thin so they cook evenly and tenderize within the simmering time.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: European-Inspired
