Shrimp and Cod in Creamy Garlic Sauce – A Luxurious, Easy Seafood Dinner
If you love elegant seafood recipes that taste like restaurant-quality meals but are easy enough for a busy weeknight, this Shrimp and Cod in Creamy Garlic Sauce will instantly become one of your favorites. This dish combines tender white cod, juicy shrimp, rich cream, butter, garlic, and herbs to create a beautifully silky sauce that coats every bite. It’s the perfect blend of freshness, protein, and indulgence—all coming together in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re looking for a comforting dinner, a special occasion meal, or a recipe to impress guests, this creamy seafood dish never disappoints. Its flavors are delicate yet bold, making it wonderful to pair with rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is rich without being heavy, creamy without using complicated ingredients, and packed with flavor thanks to the combination of garlic, butter, seafood stock, and herbs. Cod is naturally mild and flaky, making it ideal for absorbing the creamy garlic sauce. Shrimp adds sweetness and texture contrast. Together, they form a luxurious seafood meal that’s incredibly easy to prepare. The sauce thickens perfectly, coats the protein beautifully, and delivers a deep savory flavor that feels comforting and satisfying. Best of all, this recipe uses simple pantry staples you already have at home, making it practical while still feeling like a gourmet dish.
Ingredients for Shrimp and Cod in Creamy Garlic Sauce
400g cod fillets (fresh or thawed) cut into large chunks
250g shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
4–5 cloves garlic, finely minced
1 small onion, finely diced
1 cup heavy cream
1/3 cup seafood or chicken broth
1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (optional, for thickening)
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
Juice of 1/2 lemon
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Optional: red pepper flakes for heat
How the Creamy Garlic Sauce Comes Together
The magic of this dish is the sauce. Garlic is gently sautéed in butter and olive oil until fragrant. The broth loosens the fond (the browned bits) and adds savory flavor. The cream transforms everything into a silky sauce that clings to the shrimp and cod. A splash of lemon balances the richness. The result is a velvety, aromatic sauce with a subtle kick from garlic and paprika, creating a luxurious coating that elevates the mild seafood beautifully. The sauce is thick enough to feel indulgent yet light enough to let the shrimp and cod shine.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Pat the cod and shrimp dry, then season lightly with salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp and cook for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and slightly golden. Remove shrimp and set aside. In the same pan, add onion and sauté until soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the broth and scrape the bottom of the pan to release all the flavor. Reduce heat to medium-low and add the heavy cream. Stir gently. Add cod chunks and let them cook slowly in the creamy broth for 5–7 minutes until tender and flaky. Return shrimp to the pan. Add lemon juice and parsley. If you want a thicker sauce, stir in the cornstarch slurry and simmer for 1–2 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve immediately with your favorite side.
Flavor and Texture
The cod becomes buttery and flaky inside the creamy garlic sauce. The shrimp brings a sweet, slightly firm bite, balancing the softness of the fish. The sauce is rich but brightened by lemon and herbs. Paprika provides warmth, garlic adds depth, and the cream ties everything into a luxurious, perfectly seasoned meal. Every forkful is tender, silky, and full of flavor. It’s the kind of dish everyone remembers long after the meal is over.
Expert Tips for the Best Results
Dry the seafood well so it browns nicely and doesn’t steam. Avoid overcooking cod; it cooks quickly and stays juiciest when handled gently. Add shrimp back at the end to avoid rubbery texture. Use good-quality cream for the silkiest sauce. For extra flavor, add a splash of white wine before adding the broth. Cook on medium-low heat after adding cream to prevent curdling.
Delicious Variations
Make it spicy: Add chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne. Tomato version: Add a tablespoon of tomato paste for a light pink sauce. Herb version: Add dill, thyme, or basil for different flavor profiles. Veggie version: Add spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes. Cajun version: Season shrimp and cod with Cajun spice mix before cooking for a bold twist.
What to Serve With Shrimp and Cod in Creamy Garlic Sauce
Steamed rice absorbs the creamy sauce beautifully. Mashed potatoes provide a buttery, comforting base. Pasta pairs perfectly with the sauce, creating a seafood Alfredo-style dish. Crusty bread is perfect for dipping and soaking every drop. Steamed vegetables add balance. Roasted potatoes create a hearty, filling meal.
How to Store and Reheat
Refrigerate leftovers for up to 2 days. Reheat gently over low heat to avoid overcooking the seafood. Add a splash of milk or broth if the sauce becomes too thick. Freezing is not recommended because cream-based sauces and seafood can change texture when frozen.
Who This Recipe Is Perfect For
Seafood lovers looking for a quick gourmet meal. Families wanting a healthy, protein-rich dinner. Anyone who enjoys creamy, garlic-forward flavors. Busy cooks needing a 20-minute recipe. People who love comfort food but want something lighter than pasta or casseroles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen seafood? Yes, just thaw and pat dry. Can I replace cod? Yes, use halibut, tilapia, or salmon. Can I make it dairy-free? Use coconut cream for a different but delicious version. Do I need the cornstarch? Only if you want a thicker sauce. Can I add vegetables? Absolutely—spinach, broccoli, mushrooms, and peas work beautifully.
Final Thoughts
Shrimp and Cod in Creamy Garlic Sauce is one of the easiest yet most luxurious seafood dishes you can make at home. With simple ingredients and minimal steps, it delivers a beautifully rich, flavorful sauce and perfectly cooked seafood every time. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this dish brings elegance to the table without stress. It’s comforting, satisfying, and full of irresistible garlic aroma that fills the kitchen and makes everyone excited to eat. Once you try it, this recipe will become a regular part of your dinner rotation thanks to its simplicity, versatility, and unforgettable flavor.
