There’s something deeply comforting and elegant about flaky white fish bathed in a velvety roasted red pepper sauce.
This Cod with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce is the kind of meal I turn to when I want something restaurant-worthy, but fast and fuss-free.
The flavors are bold and cozy all at once. The sweetness of the red peppers, the smoky paprika, and that creamy finish—it’s everything I crave on a busy weeknight or even for guests.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One skillet, all flavor – Quick to make and easy to clean up.
Creamy, cozy, and light – A perfect balance of richness and brightness.
Naturally gluten-free – With a dairy-free option, too!
Ready in 30 minutes – Weeknight-friendly without compromising taste.
Impressive presentation – Looks as good as it tastes.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Cod fillets – Mild and flaky, they absorb the sauce beautifully.
Olive oil – For sautéing both the fish and the sauce base.
Roasted red peppers – Sweet, smoky flavor and stunning color.
Onion and garlic – The aromatic foundation of the sauce.
Heavy cream or coconut cream – Your choice for richness or dairy-free.
Chicken or veggie broth – Thins and balances the sauce.
Smoked paprika & oregano – Add depth and warmth.
Fresh parsley – A bright finish for serving.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Pat cod very dry – This ensures even searing and prevents sticking.
Use jarred roasted red peppers – Saves time without sacrificing flavor.
Don’t overcook the fish – It should just flake with a fork.
Blend until silky – A smooth sauce elevates the dish.
Simmer the sauce gently – Don’t boil or the cream might separate.
How to Make Cod with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
Step 1: Season the Cod
Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels.
Sprinkle both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika if using.
Step 2: Sear the Cod
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the cod and cook for 3–4 minutes per side until opaque and flaky.
Transfer to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
In the same skillet, heat more olive oil.
Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant, about 2–3 minutes.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Add roasted red peppers, smoked paprika, and oregano.
Sauté for another 2 minutes to bring the flavors together.
Step 5: Blend to Smooth
Transfer the mixture to a blender (or use an immersion blender directly in the pan) and blend until smooth. Return the sauce to the skillet.
Step 6: Simmer with Cream
Stir in the cream and broth.
Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
Step 7: Add the Cod Back In
Nestle the cooked cod fillets into the sauce, spooning some over the top.
Simmer for 2–3 minutes so the flavors meld.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve hot with your favorite sides.
What to Serve It With
Steamed jasmine or wild rice
Creamy mashed potatoes or polenta
Roasted asparagus, broccoli, or green beans
Buttered pasta or couscous
Crusty bread to soak up the sauce
Variations / Substitutions
Dairy-free – Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
Different fish – Try halibut, tilapia, or sea bass.
Spicy version – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Herb swap – Use fresh basil or thyme instead of parsley.
Make it vegetarian – Use tofu or chickpeas instead of cod.
Storage & Leftovers
Fridge – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently – Use a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking.
Freeze? – Not recommended due to cream separation, but cod can be frozen separately.
Meal prep tip – Make the sauce ahead and store separately from the fish.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cod?
Yes, just thaw it fully and pat dry before cooking.
Is this dish spicy?
Not at all! It’s savory and smoky, but you can add spice if you’d like.
Do I have to blend the sauce?
For best texture, yes—but a chunky version still works and is delicious.
Can I use fresh red peppers?
You can roast them yourself or use jarred for ease.
What if I don’t have smoked paprika?
Regular paprika works, but you’ll miss some of the smoky flavor.
Can I double the sauce?
Absolutely—it’s great over pasta, rice, or even eggs the next day.
Can I use cream cheese instead of heavy cream?
You can melt in a couple tablespoons for a thicker, richer sauce.
Final Thoughts
This Cod with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce is proof that healthy meals don’t have to be boring or bland.
The fish is tender, the sauce is silky and vibrant, and it comes together in one skillet.
I come back to this recipe often when I want to feel like I’m dining out—without ever leaving the kitchen.
Cod with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
Ingredients
Method
- Pat cod fillets dry and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sear cod for 3–4 minutes per side until flaky. Remove and set aside.
- Add 1 tbsp olive oil to the same skillet. Sauté onion and garlic for 2–3 minutes.
- Add roasted red peppers, smoked paprika, and oregano.
- Cook another 2 minutes.
- Blend the mixture until smooth and return to the pan.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://theboatshedcafe.com/cod-with-roasted-red-pepper-sauce/
Notes
- Jarred roasted red peppers work great, but homemade adds extra flavor.
- Use coconut cream for a dairy-free twist with a slightly sweet undertone.
- Be gentle when flipping the cod—it’s delicate once cooked.
My name is Isabella, and this space was born from years of stirring sauces at sunset, baking cookies while the kids played on the porch, and finding comfort in a homemade meal after long, busy days. Here you’ll find delicious, reliable recipes made with simple ingredients, plus easy step-by-step photos and videos to help you cook confidently at home.