There are few things more delightful than the aroma of baked cod wafting through your home, especially when it’s draped in a creamy sauce that dances on your taste buds. Imagine the tender flakes of fish melting in your mouth as you savor every luscious bite. Elevate your dinner with baked cod in creamy sauce, and you’ll find yourself daydreaming about this dish long after the plates are cleared. For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.
This recipe is not just about feeding your belly; it’s about creating memorable moments at the dinner table. Picture this: a cozy evening, laughter echoing off the walls, and this stunning dish stealing the show. Trust me; your family or friends will be raving about it long after dessert. So grab your apron and let’s dive into this culinary adventure!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Baked cod in creamy sauce is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze
- The rich flavors create a comforting experience that feels gourmet without the fuss
- With its elegant presentation, it’s sure to impress any guest at your table
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair beautifully with rice, vegetables, or even crusty bread
I remember serving this baked cod dish during a family gathering and watching my uncle’s eyes widen with joy as he took his first bite. He declared it “the best fish” he’s ever had!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Cod Fillets: Fresh or frozen fillets work well; look for firm fish without strong odors.
- Heavy Cream: A must for that luscious sauce; don’t skimp on quality here!
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic packs flavor; finely mince for maximum impact.
- Butter: Adds richness to the sauce; I prefer unsalted butter for better control over seasoning.
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds color and freshness; feel free to use other herbs like dill or basil.
- Lemon Juice: A splash brightens up the dish and balances the creaminess perfectly.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings; adjust to taste based on personal preference.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). The perfect temperature is key for even cooking.
Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. This step saves you from post-dinner scrubbing!
Season the Cod: Place cod fillets in the baking dish and sprinkle liberally with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy! This enhances their natural flavors.
Create Your Creamy Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add heavy cream and stir until combined.
Add Lemon Juice and Parsley: Mix in lemon juice and chopped parsley into the sauce for added brightness. Keep stirring until everything is smooth.
Bake Until Perfectly Flaky: Pour the creamy sauce over the cod fillets evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes until fish flakes easily with a fork and tops are golden brown.
Enjoy exploring this delightful recipe that brings joy to any dinner table!
You Must Know
- Elevate Your Dinner with Baked Cod in Creamy Sauce is not just a recipe; it’s a culinary adventure
- The delightful aroma fills your kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere while the cod bakes to perfection, ensuring every bite is as delicious as it sounds
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven and preparing the creamy sauce while the cod marinates. This sequence ensures even cooking and maximizes flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out herbs or add a splash of lemon juice for extra zing. Personal touches elevate the dish and reflect your taste!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven to maintain creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When preparing fish, always ensure it’s fresh for best results
- A squeeze of citrus brightens flavors, and pairing with seasonal veggies can elevate any meal
- Remember, overcooking is a common mistake that leads to dry fish!
It was one of those magical evenings when dinner turned into a feast at my place, and friends couldn’t stop raving about the cod. Their delighted faces reminded me why I love cooking.
FAQ
Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?
Yes, but thaw it completely to ensure even cooking throughout.
What sides pair well with baked cod?
Roasted vegetables or a light salad complement baked cod beautifully.
How do I know when the cod is done?
The fish should flake easily with a fork and be opaque throughout.
Baked Cod in Creamy Sauce
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Baked cod in creamy sauce is a culinary delight that transforms a simple meal into an unforgettable dining experience. This dish features tender cod fillets baked to perfection and enveloped in a rich, velvety sauce made with heavy cream, garlic, and fresh herbs. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it pairs beautifully with rice, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread. Let the enticing aroma fill your kitchen as you create this flavorful masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Season cod fillets with salt and pepper and arrange them in the baking dish.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- Stir in heavy cream and mix until well combined.
- Add lemon juice and chopped parsley to the sauce; stir until smooth.
- Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the cod fillets.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cod fillet (170g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider using dill or basil instead of parsley. If you prefer a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes to the sauce. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently.