Description
Creamy Herb Cod with Roasted Potatoes
“Flaky cod fillets in a luscious herb-infused cream sauce with golden roasted potatoes—a comforting and elegant dish!”
Ingredients:
For the Cod:
2 cod fillets (fresh or frozen)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp butter
Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Potatoes:
300g baby potatoes (halved)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Cream Sauce:
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
2 garlic cloves (minced)
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
1 sprig fresh rosemary
1 tbsp butter
Instructions:
Roast the Potatoes:
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
Toss the halved baby potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until golden and tender.
Cook the Cod:
Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the cod fillets with salt and pepper. Sear the cod for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Prepare the Cream Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Add chicken or vegetable broth, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, thyme, and rosemary. Simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
Combine and Serve:
Return the seared cod fillets to the skillet and spoon the cream sauce over them. Add the roasted potatoes to the dish. Let everything simmer together for 2 minutes.
Garnish and Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh rosemary and thyme. Serve warm and enjoy this flavorful and hearty meal!
This creamy herb cod with roasted potatoes is a delightful dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated—perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for perfect results. First, preheat your oven and prepare the potatoes. While they roast, pat the cod fillets completely dry with paper towels; this is crucial for a good sear. As the potatoes cook, begin searing the cod in your hot skillet. Do not move the fillets for the first 3-4 minutes to allow a golden crust to form. After making the sauce and letting it simmer to your desired thickness, gently return the cod to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Finally, add the roasted potatoes directly to the skillet or plate everything together, letting the flavors combine for the final two minutes of simmering.
Serving Suggestions
This rich and creamy dish pairs beautifully with lighter, crisp sides to balance the meal. Consider serving it with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette, or steamed green beans or asparagus. For a heartier meal, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the extra herb cream sauce. A glass of crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, complements the flavors perfectly.
How-to Summary
This elegant one-pan meal comes together by roasting potatoes until golden, then pan-searing seasoned cod fillets. A simple, fragrant cream sauce is made in the same skillet with garlic, herbs, Dijon, broth, and cream. Everything is combined to simmer briefly before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of fish? Yes, other firm white fish like halibut, haddock, or sea bass work well. Adjust cooking time slightly based on thickness.
How do I know when the cod is cooked through? The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). It will be opaque all the way through.
Can I make this sauce dairy-free? You can substitute full-fat coconut milk for the heavy cream. The flavor will be different but still rich and delicious.
What if my sauce is too thin? Let it simmer for a few more minutes to reduce and thicken. You can also create a quick slurry with 1 teaspoon of cornstarch and 1 tablespoon of cold water, whisk it in, and simmer for one minute.
Can I prepare any components ahead of time? You can roast the potatoes ahead and reheat them. Prepare the sauce base (sauté garlic, add broth and herbs) in advance, then add cream and finish simmering just before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Drying the Cod: Adding wet fish to the pan prevents proper searing and can lead to steaming.
- Overcrowding the Skillet: Sear the cod fillets with space between them to ensure even browning.
- Overcooking the Cod: Cod cooks quickly and can become rubbery if left in the pan too long. It will continue to cook slightly when returned to the warm sauce.
- Boiling the Sauce: After adding the cream, maintain a gentle simmer. A rapid boil can cause the sauce to break or become greasy.
- Using Dried Herbs Interchangeably: If substituting dried herbs for fresh, use only one-third the amount, as dried herbs are more potent.
Conclusion
Creamy Herb Cod with Roasted Potatoes is a testament to how simple ingredients can create a spectacular meal. It masterfully combines the hearty comfort of golden potatoes with the delicate, flaky texture of cod, all brought together by an aromatic and luxurious cream sauce. This dish is impressively elegant for guests yet straightforward enough for a satisfying weeknight dinner. By following the steps and tips provided, you can consistently achieve a restaurant-quality result that is sure to become a cherished recipe in your home cooking repertoire.