Seared Cod Fillets with Silky Garlic Cream Sauce bring together golden-crusted cod, fragrant garlic, and a luxuriously smooth cream sauce that gently coats every bite. This dish balances light seafood freshness with warm, comforting richness. Ideal for weeknight dinners, romantic meals, or cozy evenings, it feels gourmet while remaining wonderfully simple.
With just a few high-quality ingredients and precise technique, you can create restaurant-style flavor right at home.
Servings
Servings: 3–4 portions
Time Required for Seared Cod Fillets with Silky Garlic Cream Sauce
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 15 minutes
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Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
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600 g fresh cod fillets, skinless, thick-cut
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30 ml olive oil
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30 g unsalted butter
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4 garlic cloves, finely minced
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180 ml heavy cream
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80 ml fish stock or chicken broth
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15 ml lemon juice
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1 tsp lemon zest
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10 g fresh parsley or thyme, finely chopped
Spices & Seasoning
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1 tsp sea salt
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½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
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½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
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¼ tsp chili flakes (optional heat)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Cod
First, pat the cod fillets completely dry using paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Dry fish ensures a beautifully crisp sear.
2. Heat the Pan
Next, heat olive oil in a wide skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking. Meanwhile, ensure the pan surface is evenly coated.
3. Sear the Cod
Then, gently place the cod fillets into the hot pan. Sear undisturbed for 3–4 minutes per side until a golden crust forms and the fish flakes easily. Remove and set aside, keeping warm.
4. Build the Garlic Base
Meanwhile, lower the heat to medium and add butter to the same pan. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté gently for 30 seconds until aromatic but not browned.
5. Deglaze the Pan
Next, pour in the fish stock while scraping the flavorful bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let it simmer for 1 minute to concentrate flavor.
6. Create the Cream Sauce
Then, stir in heavy cream, lemon juice, and zest. Simmer gently for 3–4 minutes until the sauce thickens into a silky texture. Adjust seasoning carefully.
7. Finish and Serve
Finally, return the cod fillets to the pan, spooning sauce over the fish. Simmer for 1 minute to warm through. Sprinkle with fresh herbs and serve immediately.
Variations of Seared Cod Fillets with Silky Garlic Cream Sauce
With Meat
Add crispy pancetta or bacon bits to the garlic stage for smoky depth.
Vegetarian Version
Replace cod with thick slices of roasted cauliflower or pan-seared tofu.
Creamier Version
Stir in 30 g grated parmesan for extra richness and body.
Spicier Version
Add cayenne pepper or fresh chili slices for heat.
Seasonal Swaps
In spring, fold in asparagus tips; in winter, add sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
Tips for Perfect Results – Seared Cod Fillets with Silky Garlic Cream Sauce
Master the Sear
Always dry the fish thoroughly and avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure crisp edges.
Enhance the Aroma
Fresh herbs added at the end preserve vibrant flavor and fragrance.
Sauce Consistency
If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of broth to loosen it gently.
Storage
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat slowly on low heat.
Avoid Overcooking
Cod cooks quickly—remove once opaque and flaky to maintain tenderness.
Final Thoughts
Seared Cod Fillets with Silky Garlic Cream Sauce showcase how simple ingredients can transform into something truly refined. The delicate sweetness of cod paired with warm garlic cream creates a dish that feels indulgent without heaviness.
