There’s something magical about the way a creamy sauce envelops perfectly baked cod, transforming a simple weeknight meal into a gourmet experience. Elevate your dinner with baked cod in creamy sauce, and you’ll find yourself lost in a world of rich flavors and delightful textures that dance on your palate. For more inspiration, check out this lunch options recipe.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?
- What sides pair well with baked cod?
- How can I make the sauce spicier?
- 📖 Recipe Card
Imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen as the cod cooks to flaky perfection, mingling with the savory notes of garlic and herbs. This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing guests at a dinner party. With every bite, you’ll anticipate an explosion of flavor that leaves everyone wanting more. For more inspiration, check out this more dinner ideas recipe.
[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] This baked cod in creamy sauce is not only simple to prepare, but it also delivers an impressive flavor profile that will wow your taste buds. The bright visuals from fresh herbs make it a standout dish on any table. Versatile enough for weeknight meals or special occasions, this recipe is a winner in every sense! [/info_box]
I remember the first time I made this dish; my friends practically turned into food critics, raving about how delicious it was. It quickly became a staple in our dinner rotation!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Cod Fillets: Opt for fresh or thawed fillets; they should be firm and free of strong odors for the best results.
- Heavy Cream: Choose rich heavy cream for a velvety texture that elevates the sauce’s creaminess.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds depth; avoid using pre-minced varieties for optimal flavor.
- Fresh Parsley: Use freshly chopped parsley to brighten flavors and create visual appeal on the plate.
- Lemon Juice: A splash of lemon juice balances the richness of the sauce with a zesty kick.
For the seasoning:
- Salt and Pepper: Adjust to taste; these basic seasonings are essential for enhancing all other flavors.
- Paprika: Use sweet paprika to add subtle warmth without overwhelming heat; it’s perfect for color too.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preparation Phase: Prepping Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients on the counter. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) while you chop fresh parsley and mince garlic. This ensures everything is ready when you need it.
Seasoning Your Cod Fillets: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and paprika for extra flavor. Let them sit while you prepare the sauce.
Making the Creamy Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add some olive oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant—about 30 seconds. Pour in heavy cream and stir until well combined; let it simmer gently.
Add Lemon Juice & Herbs: Remove the sauce from heat and mix in lemon juice and chopped parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed—this step brings brightness to your dish!
Bake Your Cod Fillets : Place seasoned cod fillets in a greased baking dish. Pour creamy sauce over them generously, ensuring they’re fully covered. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes or until fish flakes easily with a fork.
Enjoying this baked cod in creamy sauce will undoubtedly become one of your favorite culinary experiences!
[info_box title=”You Must Know”] Elevate Your Dinner with Baked Cod in Creamy Sauce brings flavors to life in a delightful way. The creamy sauce pairs beautifully with fresh herbs, creating a dish that’s both comforting and elegant. Plus, it’s simple enough for a weeknight yet fancy enough for guests. [/info_box]
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Prepare your ingredients while the oven heats up; this ensures everything cooks evenly and efficiently.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with different herbs or spices. A dash of lemon zest or some capers can transform the dish into something uniquely yours.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F to keep the fish moist.
[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] To achieve perfectly flaky cod, avoid overcooking it; fish should be opaque and easily flake with a fork. Consider using panko breadcrumbs for added texture on top of your sauce. Always season your fish generously; it makes a world of difference in flavor! [/info_box]
Baking this dish always reminds me of family gatherings where compliments flew like confetti. My cousin once claimed he could taste my love in every bite!
FAQ
Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?
Yes, just ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking for even results.
What sides pair well with baked cod?
Try serving it with steamed vegetables or fluffy rice for a balanced meal.
How can I make the sauce spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to kick things up a notch!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Baked Cod in Creamy Sauce
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Baked Cod in Creamy Sauce is a delightful dish that transforms your weeknight dinner into a gourmet experience. This recipe features flaky cod fillets enveloped in a rich, velvety sauce infused with garlic, fresh herbs, and a hint of lemon. Perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing guests, every bite promises an explosion of flavor that’s both comforting and elegant.
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Gather ingredients and prepare the garlic and parsley.
- Pat cod fillets dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, sauté minced garlic in olive oil for about 30 seconds.
- Add heavy cream to the saucepan, stirring until combined. Let simmer gently.
- Remove from heat; mix in lemon juice and chopped parsley. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Place seasoned cod in a greased baking dish; pour creamy sauce over the top.
- Bake uncovered for 20 minutes or until fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cod fillet (170g)
- Calories: 440
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
