Shrimp and Cod in Creamy Garlic Sauce is an elegant, comforting seafood dish that combines juicy shrimp and tender, flaky cod with a velvety, aromatic garlic cream sauce. The richness of the cream, the brightness of white wine, and the depth of Parmesan create a restaurant-quality flavor profile you can easily achieve at home. This one-pan recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners yet luxurious enough for special occasions.
Ingredients
For the Fish and Shrimp
1 lb (450g) cod fillets, cut into large chunks
1/2 lb (225g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Paprika, optional
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce
3 tablespoons butter
4–5 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 cup dry white wine, optional but recommended
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter sauce)
1/2 cup chicken or seafood broth
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or Herbes de Provence
Pinch of red pepper flakes, optional
2 cups fresh spinach, optional
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Seafood
Pat the cod and shrimp dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and a light sprinkle of paprika if using. Dry seafood browns better and prevents a watery sauce.
Sear the Seafood
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cod chunks and sear for 1–2 minutes per side, just until the exterior turns opaque. Avoid fully cooking them at this stage. Transfer the pieces to a plate.
Pro Tip: If your pan is small, sear in two batches to ensure proper browning.
Sauté the Aromatics
Reduce the heat to medium. In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 60 seconds until fragrant and lightly golden. Add red pepper flakes now if you want a subtle kick.
Deglaze with Wine
Pour in the white wine and stir to release the browned bits at the bottom of the pan. Let the wine simmer for 1–2 minutes until reduced by about half. This adds beautiful depth to the sauce.
Create the Sauce
Lower the heat to medium-low. Add the heavy cream and broth, then sprinkle in the Italian seasoning. Let the sauce heat gently without letting it boil rapidly.
Thicken the Sauce
Stir in the Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into the sauce. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper.
Combine and Finish Cooking
If using spinach, add it now and allow it to wilt into the sauce. Gently nestle the cod and the raw shrimp into the skillet, making sure they are partially submerged in the sauce. Cover the skillet and simmer for 4–6 minutes, or until the cod flakes easily and the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
Serve
Sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately over:
Linguine, fettuccine, or any pasta
Creamy mashed potatoes
Steamed white or jasmine rice
Cauliflower rice for a lighter option
Warm crusty bread to soak up the sauce
Success Tips
• Do not overcook the cod. It becomes tough if simmered too long.
• Use a wine you’d enjoy drinking—its flavor becomes part of the sauce.
• Keep the heat gentle to prevent the cream from curdling.
• Frozen seafood works perfectly if thoroughly thawed and dried.
Variations
• Lemon Twist: Add 1–2 teaspoons lemon zest or squeeze lemon juice before serving for extra brightness.
• Tomato Version: Stir in a handful of halved cherry tomatoes with the spinach for color and freshness.
• Mushroom Upgrade: Add sautéed mushrooms to deepen the flavor of the cream sauce.
• Spicy Variation: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne.
• Herb Swap: Try fresh dill, basil, or tarragon for a different aromatic profile.
FAQ
Can I use another type of fish?
Yes. This recipe works well with halibut, haddock, tilapia, or sea bass.
What can I substitute for wine?
Use an extra 1/4 cup broth and finish with a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes. Use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative and omit the Parmesan or use a dairy-free version.
How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on low heat to avoid overcooking the seafood.
Conclusion
Shrimp and Cod in Creamy Garlic Sauce is the perfect blend of simplicity, elegance, and comfort. The creamy, garlicky sauce enhances the delicate seafood without overpowering it, making every bite rich and satisfying. Whether you pair it with pasta, rice, or bread, this recipe transforms an ordinary evening into a restaurant-style experience at home. Enjoy every delicious, silky spoonful.