Cod’s gentle flavor makes it the perfect canvas for lush sauces and silky textures. Whether you crave classic comfort or a dash of global flair, one of the recipes below is bound to hit the spot. Each idea features cooked cod paired with a creamy element—think dairy, coconut milk, or puréed veggies—that turns an everyday fillet into something memorable.
Contents
- 1. Creamy Garlic Butter Cod
- 2. Cod in Lemon Dill Cream Sauce
- 3. Coconut Cream Cod Curry
- 4. Creamy Tuscan Cod with Spinach & Sun-Dried Tomatoes
- 5. Cod à la King
- 6. Creamy Cod & Corn Chowder
- 7. Smoked Paprika Creamed Cod
- 8. Creamy Miso Cod Hot Pot
- 9. Cod with Parmesan Cream Crust
- 10. Creamy Cod and Leek Pie
- 11. Cod Stroganoff
- 12. Creamy Cod with Artichokes & Capers
- 13. Cod in White Wine Cream Sauce
- 14. Creamy Cod & Pea Risotto
- 15. Cod with Roasted Garlic Cauliflower Cream
- 16. Creamy Cajun Cod over Grits
- 17. Cod in Mustard Tarragon Cream
- 18. Creamy Cod & Mushroom Vol-au-Vent
- 19. Creamy Thai Green Cod
- 20. Cod Alfredo Pasta
- 21. Creamy Cod & Sweet Potato Bake
- 22. Curried Cod in Cashew Cream
- 23. Cod with Herb Goat Cheese Sauce
- 24. Creamy Cod & Spinach Stuffed Peppers
- 25. Cod Newburg
- 26. Creamy Pesto Cod Packets
- 27. Cod in Bacon-Shallot Cream
- 28. Creamy Cod & Broccoli Casserole
- 29. Cod with Saffron Cream
- 30. Rustic Creamy Cod Tomato Stew
- 31. Cod Carbonara
- 32. Creamy Fennel & Cod Gratin
- 33. Cod in Blue Cheese Cream
- 34. Creamy Cod & Pumpkin Soup
- 35. Cod Pot Pie with Chive Cream
- 36. Creamy Chipotle Cod Tacos
- 37. Cod with Almond Cream Sauce
- 38. Creamy Mediterranean Cod Skillet
- 39. Cod & Zucchini in Lemon Yogurt Cream
- 40. Creamy Cod Enchiladas
- 41. Cod with Basil Coconut Cream
- 42. Creamy Cornish Cod & Cider Sauce
- 43. Cod Marsala Cream
- 44. Creamy Cod & Asparagus Pasta Bake
- 45. Cod in Horseradish Dill Cream
- 46. Creamy Ginger Cod Congee
- 47. Cod with Truffle Parmesan Cream
- 48. Creamy Cod & Spinach Lasagna
- 49. Cod Korma with Yogurt Cream
- 50. Creamy Lemon Pepper Cod Nuggets
1. Creamy Garlic Butter Cod
Sauté cod in plenty of melted butter, then whisk in garlic, heavy cream, and a squeeze of lemon. The sauce thickens in minutes, coating each piece without overpowering the fish. Serve with crusty bread to catch every last drop.
2. Cod in Lemon Dill Cream Sauce
A quick pan sauce of cream, lemon juice, and chopped dill brightens flaky cod beautifully. Simmer until slightly reduced, then slide the fish back in to finish cooking. Mashed potatoes make an ideal side.
3. Coconut Cream Cod Curry
Start with aromatics—ginger, garlic, and curry paste—then pour in coconut milk for velvety richness. Cod cubes poach gently in the sauce, staying tender while soaking up the spices. A sprinkle of lime juice wakes everything up.
4. Creamy Tuscan Cod with Spinach & Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Inspired by Tuscan chicken, this version swaps in cod for a lighter twist. The sauce features garlic, cream, Parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes, plus handfuls of baby spinach for color. It’s wonderful over buttered noodles.
5. Cod à la King
This playful riff on chicken à la king smothers cod morsels in a sherry-kissed cream sauce loaded with mushrooms, peppers, and peas. Spoon the mixture into pastry shells or over toast points. Weeknight supper suddenly feels retro-chic.
6. Creamy Cod & Corn Chowder
Smoky bacon, sweet corn, and tender cod create a chowder worthy of a seaside café. Use half-and-half for creaminess without heaviness. Leftovers reheat nicely for lunch the next day.
7. Smoked Paprika Creamed Cod
Smoked paprika turns a standard cream sauce into something deep and soulful. Spoon it over pan-seared cod and let the flavors mingle for a few minutes. Roasted potatoes round out the meal.
8. Creamy Miso Cod Hot Pot
White miso whisked into light cream creates an umami-rich broth. Add vegetables, then gently poach cod until opaque. Serve straight from the pot for a cozy, shareable dinner.
9. Cod with Parmesan Cream Crust
Mix grated Parmesan, mayo, and a splash of cream, then spread over the fish before broiling. The topping turns bubbly and crisp while the cod stays moist underneath. A green salad on the side keeps things fresh.
10. Creamy Cod and Leek Pie
Soft leeks and cod mingle in a velvety white sauce, tucked under buttery pastry. Bake until the top is golden and filling gently bubbles. It’s classic British comfort, simplified for home kitchens.
11. Cod Stroganoff
A lighter nod to beef stroganoff, this version swaps in cod and uses seafood stock to deepen flavor. Sour cream lends tang while keeping the sauce smooth. Serve over noodles or rice.
12. Creamy Cod with Artichokes & Capers
Briny capers and tender artichoke hearts cut through the richness of cream, giving cod Mediterranean flair. Finish with a dusting of lemon zest. Crusty bread is mandatory for mopping up.
13. Cod in White Wine Cream Sauce
Deglaze sautéed shallots with a splash of dry white wine, then stir in cream and thyme. Cod fillets gently poach in the mixture until just flaky. Pair with rice pilaf or steamed asparagus.
14. Creamy Cod & Pea Risotto
Stir hot broth into arborio rice until silky, then fold in poached cod and sweet peas. A bit of mascarpone enriches the final texture. The dish is both comforting and elegant.
15. Cod with Roasted Garlic Cauliflower Cream
Puréed roasted cauliflower blended with cream creates a lighter alternative to mashed potatoes. Spoon the velvety base under pan-seared cod for a vegetable-forward twist. A sprinkle of chives adds color.
16. Creamy Cajun Cod over Grits
Blackened seasoning meets cream for a sauce that’s spicy yet smooth. Spoon it over tender cod and serve atop buttery grits. It’s a coastal take on shrimp and grits.
17. Cod in Mustard Tarragon Cream
Dijon mustard and fresh tarragon give the cream sauce a French bistro vibe. Cod cooks quickly in the pan, absorbing the herbaceous flavors. Serve with simply roasted veggies.
18. Creamy Cod & Mushroom Vol-au-Vent
Fill flaky pastry shells with cod, sautéed mushrooms, and cream thickened with a splash of sherry. Bake briefly to heat through. These make show-stopping starters or a light entrée alongside salad.
19. Creamy Thai Green Cod
Green curry paste, coconut milk, and fish sauce form the base of this vibrant dish. Cod simmers until it flakes easily into the sauce. Serve with jasmine rice to soak up the fragrant liquid.
20. Cod Alfredo Pasta
Swap grilled chicken for flaky cod in your favorite Alfredo recipe. The fish keeps things light while still delivering satisfying richness. Finish with plenty of freshly ground pepper.
21. Creamy Cod & Sweet Potato Bake
Alternate thin sweet potato slices with cod fillets, then bathe the dish in seasoned cream. Bake until the top caramelizes and the potatoes are tender. It’s savory, sweet, and wonderfully simple.
22. Curried Cod in Cashew Cream
Soak cashews and blend with water for a dairy-free cream substitute. Simmer cod in a mild curry sauce, then stir in the silky nut mixture. The result is luxuriously smooth without milk or butter.
23. Cod with Herb Goat Cheese Sauce
Whisk soft goat cheese into warm cream until melted, then add chopped parsley and chives. Spoon over baked cod for a tangy, velvety finish. Roasted cherry tomatoes make a bright side.
24. Creamy Cod & Spinach Stuffed Peppers
Fill sweet pepper halves with a mixture of cooked cod, wilted spinach, cream cheese, and herbs. Bake until the peppers soften and the filling browns slightly. They work as a main course or hearty appetizer.
25. Cod Newburg
Traditionally made with lobster, Newburg sauce shines just as brightly with cod. A touch of sherry and paprika perfumes the cream. Spoon it over buttered toast or rice.
26. Creamy Pesto Cod Packets
Mix basil pesto with a splash of cream, then spread over cod and seal in parchment. The packet steams in its own juices, infusing the fish with herbaceous flavor. Serve straight out of the wrap for easy cleanup.
27. Cod in Bacon-Shallot Cream
Crisp bacon, sautéed shallots, and cream combine for a sauce that’s smoky yet refined. Nestle cod fillets into the pan and let them poach gently. A sprinkle of thyme finishes the dish.
28. Creamy Cod & Broccoli Casserole
This throwback favorite pairs cod with blanched broccoli and a light cheese sauce. A crunchy breadcrumb topping adds texture. It’s kid-friendly, freezer-friendly, and endlessly comforting.
29. Cod with Saffron Cream
Steep a pinch of saffron threads in warm cream to unlock their color and aroma. Pour over baked cod right before serving. The subtle floral notes elevate an otherwise simple meal.
30. Rustic Creamy Cod Tomato Stew
A tomato-rich broth gets mellowed out with a splash of cream just before serving. Cod steams gently in the pot, absorbing garlic and oregano. Serve with warm bread for dunking.
31. Cod Carbonara
Swap pancetta for small cod pieces sautéed in olive oil, then toss hot pasta with eggs, Parmesan, and a splash of cream. The residual heat forms a glossy sauce. It’s surf meets Roman comfort.
32. Creamy Fennel & Cod Gratin
Thin fennel slices soften under cod fillets, both bathed in cream and Gruyère. Bake until golden and fragrant. The anise notes of fennel pair beautifully with delicate fish.
33. Cod in Blue Cheese Cream
Crumbled blue cheese melts into cream for a bold, tangy sauce. Keep portions moderate so the fish isn’t overwhelmed. A sweet element—like roasted pears or apples—balances the bite.
34. Creamy Cod & Pumpkin Soup
Blend roasted pumpkin with stock and a dash of cream for velvety texture. Add bite-sized cod toward the end so it stays tender. The soup is autumn in a bowl.
35. Cod Pot Pie with Chive Cream
A chive-studded cream sauce coats cod, carrots, and peas beneath puff pastry. Bake until the crust shatters under the fork. Individual ramekins make it feel special.
36. Creamy Chipotle Cod Tacos
Blend canned chipotles with sour cream for a smoky sauce. Toss with flaky cod and pile into warm tortillas with crunchy slaw. Dinner’s ready in under 20 minutes.
37. Cod with Almond Cream Sauce
Ground almonds blend into cream for subtle nutty sweetness. Spoon over gently baked cod and finish with toasted almond slices for crunch. Serve alongside green beans or haricots verts.
38. Creamy Mediterranean Cod Skillet
Tomatoes, olives, and oregano evoke the Med, while a splash of cream smooths the acidity. Cod cooks directly in the sauce, soaking up briny flavors. A crumble of feta adds tang.
39. Cod & Zucchini in Lemon Yogurt Cream
Greek yogurt thinned with cream and lemon juice creates a bright, velvety coating. Sauté zucchini ribbons, then add cod and the sauce for a speedy skillet meal. Fresh dill ties it together.
40. Creamy Cod Enchiladas
Fill tortillas with spiced cod, roll them up, and blanket in a mild green chile cream sauce. Bake until bubbly, then shower with cilantro. They freeze well for make-ahead meals.
41. Cod with Basil Coconut Cream
Simmer coconut milk with garlic and fresh basil until fragrant, then slide in cod chunks. The herb infuses the sauce while the fish cooks. Serve over rice noodles for a light supper.
42. Creamy Cornish Cod & Cider Sauce
Dry hard cider reduces with cream to form a gently sweet sauce reminiscent of Cornwall’s coastal pubs. Cod fillets absorb the apple notes beautifully. A garnish of crisp apple strips adds contrast.
43. Cod Marsala Cream
Earthy mushrooms sautéed in butter meet sweet Marsala wine and cream for a lush topping. Cod remains front and center thanks to its mildness. Pair with buttered egg noodles.
44. Creamy Cod & Asparagus Pasta Bake
Toss al dente pasta with cod flakes, blanched asparagus, and a light cheese sauce. Bake until golden and bubbling. It’s springtime comfort food.
45. Cod in Horseradish Dill Cream
A spoonful of prepared horseradish gives cream sauce a gentle kick. Dill adds freshness, making the combination lively rather than heavy. Boiled baby potatoes complement the flavors.
46. Creamy Ginger Cod Congee
Slow-simmer rice until it breaks down into porridge, then stir in ginger and a splash of evaporated milk for silkiness. Add cod during the final minutes so it stays tender. It’s soothing, nourishing, and perfect for chilly nights.
47. Cod with Truffle Parmesan Cream
Parmesan adds depth while a few drops of truffle oil lend luxurious aroma. Keep the oil light so it doesn’t dominate the fish. Serve with mashed cauliflower for an upscale feel.
48. Creamy Cod & Spinach Lasagna
Alternate lasagna noodles with a béchamel-based cod and spinach mixture. Bake until the top turns golden and edges bubble. The result is lighter than meat lasagna yet still hearty.
49. Cod Korma with Yogurt Cream
Blend yogurt and a splash of cream into a fragrant cardamom-spiced sauce. Cod pieces simmer just long enough to flake. Serve with warm naan for dunking.
50. Creamy Lemon Pepper Cod Nuggets
Coat cod chunks in seasoned flour, pan-fry until golden, then toss in a light lemon pepper cream. They work as an appetizer or quick main dish. Kids and adults alike love the zesty crunch.
Nathaniel Lee is an avid cook, drawing on his decades of home cooking and fine dining experience. He is a contributing chef at Mashed, and his recipes and contributions have been featured in Tasting Table, Edible Arrangements, Insanely Good Recipes, and The Daily Meal.