This Pan-Seared Cod in White Tomato Basil Sauce is an elegant yet easy seafood dish that feels restaurant-quality but comes together in just 30 minutes. Tender cod fillets are perfectly seared until golden, then gently simmered in a creamy white tomato sauce infused with garlic, onion, basil, and subtle herbs. The result is rich, comforting, and beautifully balanced with fresh flavors.
This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or light entertaining, and pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.
🐟 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Quick and easy (ready in 30 minutes)
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Mild, flaky cod pairs perfectly with creamy sauce
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Elegant enough for guests, simple enough for family meals
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Customizable: make it lighter, spicy, or alcohol-free
Ingredients
For the Cod
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4 cod fillets (about 6 oz / 170 g each)
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2 tbsp olive oil
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the White Tomato Basil Sauce
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup canned diced tomatoes, well drained
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½ cup heavy cream
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¼ cup white wine (optional – substitute chicken or vegetable broth)
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½ tsp dried oregano
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¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
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½ cup fresh basil, chopped
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Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Cod
Pat the cod fillets completely dry using paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper. Dry fish ensures a perfect golden sear.
2️⃣ Pan-Sear the Cod
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the cod fillets and sear for 3–4 minutes per side, without moving them too much, until golden and cooked through.
Remove the fish from the skillet and set aside.
3️⃣ Build the Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium.
Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until soft and translucent.
Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
Pour in the white wine (or broth) and let it simmer for 1–2 minutes, scraping up any flavorful bits from the pan.
4️⃣ Creamy Tomato Magic
Add the drained tomatoes, heavy cream, oregano, and red pepper flakes.
Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Simmer gently for 4–6 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes silky.
5️⃣ Bring It All Together
Return the cod fillets to the skillet.
Spoon the sauce over the fish and let everything simmer together for 1–2 minutes so the flavors meld.
Remove from heat and stir in the fresh basil just before serving.
Serving Suggestions 🍽️
Serve hot with:
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Buttered pasta or creamy risotto
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Steamed rice or mashed potatoes
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Roasted vegetables (asparagus, zucchini, green beans)
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Crusty bread to soak up the sauce
Chef’s Tips ✨
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Add lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice at the end for brightness
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For extra richness, stir in 1–2 tablespoons grated Parmesan
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If using frozen cod, thaw fully and pat very dry
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Don’t overcook cod — it should flake easily and stay moist
Variations
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Lighter version: Replace cream with half-and-half or evaporated milk
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Spicy version: Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of chili powder
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Dairy-free: Use coconut cream or cashew cream
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Other seafood: Works beautifully with salmon, tilapia, or shrimp
⏰ Recipe Summary
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
