Garlic Butter Cod Strips paired with a Creamy Sauce is a delicious seafood dish that’s quick to prepare yet elegant enough for special meals. Tender, flaky cod is lightly seasoned, pan-seared in garlic butter until golden, then served with a rich, velvety sauce that enhances every bite.
This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, healthy eating, or when you want something light but satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick & Easy
Ready in under 30 minutes.
Light Yet Satisfying
Perfect balance of protein and creamy richness.
Delicate Flavor
Cod’s mild taste pairs beautifully with garlic butter.
Restaurant-Style at Home
Simple ingredients, elegant results.
Ingredients
For the Cod Strips
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1 lb cod fillets, cut into strips
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2 tablespoons butter
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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½ teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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½ teaspoon paprika
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
For the Creamy Sauce
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2 tablespoons butter
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup heavy cream
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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½ teaspoon salt
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¼ teaspoon black pepper
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1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Cod
Pat the cod strips dry with paper towels.
Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
2. Cook the Cod
Heat butter and olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
Add cod strips and cook for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
Add garlic in the last minute and spoon the garlic butter over the fish.
Drizzle with lemon juice and sprinkle with parsley. Remove and set aside.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce
In the same pan, melt butter and sauté garlic for 1 minute.
Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, Dijon mustard (if using), and lemon juice.
Cook for 3–5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
4. Combine and Serve
Return cod strips to the pan or serve them with sauce drizzled on top.
Garnish with extra parsley.
Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Cod
Use Fresh or Fully Thawed Fish
Ensures even cooking and better texture.
Don’t Overcook
Cod cooks quickly and can become dry.
Pat Dry Before Cooking
Helps achieve a golden crust.
Use Medium Heat
Prevents burning the butter and garlic.
Flavor Variations
Spicy Garlic Cod
Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper.
Herb Butter Cod
Add thyme, dill, or rosemary.
Light Version
Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
Crispy Coating
Lightly dredge cod in flour before frying.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerator:
Store for up to 2 days.
Reheating:
Reheat gently on the stove to avoid overcooking the fish.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs perfectly with:
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Steamed rice or mashed potatoes
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Roasted vegetables
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Pasta
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Fresh green salad
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Garlic bread
Final Thoughts
Garlic Butter Cod Strips with Creamy Sauce is a simple yet elegant dish that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. The flaky fish, rich garlic butter, and smooth creamy sauce create a perfect harmony of textures and tastes.
Whether you’re cooking a quick dinner or a special meal, this recipe is a delicious way to enjoy seafood at home.