Shrimp and Cod in Creamy Garlic Sauce

Step 2: Sear the shrimp

Heat 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shrimp in a single layer.
Cook for 1–2 minutes per side until they turn pink and just opaque. Remove and set aside. (They’ll finish cooking later in the sauce.)

Step 3: Cook the cod

In the same pan, gently place the cod pieces. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until lightly golden and flaky but not dry. Remove and set aside with the shrimp.

Step 4: Build the creamy garlic sauce

Reduce the heat to medium. Add another tablespoon of butter to the pan. Toss in the minced garlic and diced shallot, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.

Pour in the chicken or seafood broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release all those delicious browned bits. Let it simmer for about 2 minutes.

Next, stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and lemon zest. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently.

Step 5: Add cheese and thicken the sauce

Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and the sauce becomes silky and slightly thickened — this usually takes 3–5 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice.

Step 6: Combine everything

Return the shrimp and cod to the skillet. Spoon the sauce over the seafood, and let it simmer together for another 2–3 minutes, just until the fish absorbs the flavors and everything is heated through.

If you’re using spinach, stir it in now — it’ll wilt beautifully in the hot sauce.

Step 7: Garnish and serve

Sprinkle fresh parsley or dill on top for a burst of color and freshness.

Serve immediately with:

• Creamy mashed potatoes 🥔
• Steamed rice 🍚
• Buttered noodles 🍝
• Or a warm crusty baguette 🥖 to soak up every drop of that garlic sauce!

🌿 Tips for Perfect Results

• Don’t overcook the shrimp — they’ll turn rubbery quickly.
• Use fresh garlic for the best flavor; jarred garlic won’t deliver the same aromatic kick.
• If the sauce is too thick, thin it with a splash of broth or cream.
• For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk and skip the Parmesan.

🍽️ Final Thoughts

This Shrimp and Cod in Creamy Garlic Sauce is a comforting and luxurious dish that combines the delicate sweetness of seafood with the richness of cream and the irresistible aroma of garlic. It’s one of those recipes that makes an ordinary evening feel like a special occasion — perfect for seafood lovers or anyone looking to impress at the dinner table.

Would you like me to include a lighter version of this recipe (for fewer calories but same flavor)?