Baked Cod with Parmesan Cream Sauce

Lora Lopez

Posted on July 28, 2025

Welcome to a culinary delight that will elevate your dinner table! This Baked Cod with Parmesan Cream Sauce recipe is not just another seafood dish; it’s a symphony of flavors that promises to impress your family and friends. Cod, known for its mild flavor and flaky texture, pairs beautifully with a rich and creamy Parmesan sauce that adds depth and elegance to this dish. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is simple enough to whip up on a busy weeknight yet impressive enough for a special occasion. Let’s dive into the details of how to prepare this exquisite meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Baked Cod with Parmesan Cream Sauce is a true crowd-pleaser. Here are a few reasons why you’ll fall in love with this dish:

Quick and Easy: With a preparation time of just 10 minutes and a cooking time of 15-20 minutes, this recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Rich and Creamy: The combination of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese creates a luxuriously creamy sauce that clings to the cod fillets, enhancing their flavor without overpowering them.
Health Benefits: Cod is a lean source of protein and is packed with essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to promote heart health. This dish is not only tasty but also nourishing.
Versatile: This recipe pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, from steamed vegetables to garlic bread, making it a versatile option for any meal.
Impressive Presentation: The golden-brown crust and creamy sauce create an eye-catching dish that’s sure to impress guests at your dinner parties.
Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to the cream sauce or serve it with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for an extra zesty kick.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

There are countless ways to prepare fish, but this Baked Cod with Parmesan Cream Sauce stands out for its simplicity and flavor. If you’re looking to expand your seafood repertoire or simply want to enjoy a delicious meal, this recipe checks all the boxes.

Flavorful Experience: The combination of garlic, butter, and Parmesan cheese creates a depth of flavor that is hard to resist. Each bite is a creamy, savory experience that will leave you wanting more.
Minimal Cleanup: Since this dish is baked in a single dish, it minimizes cleanup time, allowing you to enjoy your meal without the hassle of washing numerous pots and pans.
Perfect for Meal Prep: The cod can be baked ahead of time and reheated, making it a great option for meal prep enthusiasts looking to enjoy healthy meals throughout the week.
Family-Friendly: This recipe is a hit with kids and adults alike. The creamy sauce makes it more palatable for those who may be hesitant about eating fish.
Seasonal Adaptability: Whether it’s summer or winter, this dish fits perfectly into any seasonal menu. Pair it with fresh seasonal vegetables or a light salad for a refreshing meal.

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils

To create this delectable Baked Cod with Parmesan Cream Sauce, you’ll need the following ingredients and utensils:

Ingredients

4 cod fillets
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Necessary Utensils

Baking dish (9×13 inches recommended)
Medium saucepan
Wooden spoon or whisk
Garlic press (optional, for mincing garlic)
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board
Oven mitts

Having these ingredients and utensils ready will ensure a smooth cooking process and help you achieve the best results.

Detailed Recipe Steps

Now that you have everything you need, let’s walk through the steps to create this Baked Cod with Parmesan Cream Sauce.

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your dish cooks evenly and reaches the desired doneness.
Prepare the Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
Add the Cream: Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low.
Incorporate Cheese: Gradually mix in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Add lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste. This is the moment your kitchen will fill with delightful aromas!
Prepare the Cod: In a baking dish, place the cod fillets in a single layer. Pour the creamy Parmesan sauce generously over the fillets, ensuring they are well coated. This will keep the fish moist and flavorful during baking.
Bake: Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. The cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the cod from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious meal!

**Pro Tip:** To ensure the cod stays moist, you can cover the baking dish with aluminum foil for the first half of the baking time, then remove it to allow the top to brown slightly.

FAQs

What sides go well with Baked Cod with Parmesan Cream Sauce?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed asparagus, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. You could also serve it with garlic bread or over a bed of rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious cream sauce.

Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?

Yes! While cod is a great choice due to its mild flavor and firm texture, you can substitute it with other white fish varieties like haddock, tilapia, or halibut. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thinner fillets may require less time.

Is it possible to make the Parmesan cream sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the Parmesan cream sauce in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stove before pouring it over the cod fillets.

Can I freeze Baked Cod with Parmesan Cream Sauce?

While it’s best to enjoy this dish fresh, you can freeze the baked cod for up to 2 months. Ensure it’s fully cooled before placing it in an airtight container. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven.

What can I substitute for heavy cream in this recipe?

If you want a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or heavy coconut milk as a substitute for heavy cream. Keep in mind that using a lower-fat option may affect the creaminess of the sauce.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this Baked Cod with Parmesan Cream Sauce is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that will elevate any dinner experience. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, it’s sure to become a regular in your meal rotation. Don’t forget to experiment with your favorite sides and enjoy this delightful dish with family and friends. If you try this recipe, please let me know how it turns out in the comments section below, share this article with your fellow food lovers, and happy cooking!

For more seafood inspiration, check out this Cod in Tomato Basil Cream Sauce