One Pot Cod Casserole: Easiest Weeknight Dinner EVER

January 29, 2026

By:

One pot cod casserole is the ultimate comfort food, especially on a chilly evening. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, reminiscent of my grandmother’s kitchen, filled with the aroma of simmering seafood and creamy potatoes. I remember watching her effortlessly toss ingredients into a single pot, creating a meal that was both satisfying and incredibly simple. I have recreated that recipe, and now I get to share my delicious one pot cod casserole with you.

Why You Will Love This one pot cod casserole Recipe

This one pot cod casserole is a weeknight dinner champion. It’s quick, easy, and requires minimal cleanup. The creamy sauce envelops tender flakes of cod and hearty vegetables, creating a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. It’s the perfect dish to warm you from the inside out and bring the family together around the table. And honestly, who doesn’t love a meal that’s both delicious and doesn’t leave you with a mountain of dishes?

This recipe is particularly special because it’s so adaptable. You can easily swap out vegetables based on what you have on hand, making it a great way to use up leftover produce. It’s also a fantastic way to introduce seafood to even the pickiest eaters. The mild flavor of the cod, combined with the creamy sauce, is sure to win them over!

Ingredients Needed for This one pot cod casserole Recipe

1.5 lbs Cod fillets, cut into 1 inch pieces
1 tbsp Olive oil
1 medium Onion, chopped
2 cloves Garlic, minced
1 lb Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 cup Carrots, peeled and sliced
1 cup Celery, chopped
4 cups Chicken broth
1 cup Heavy cream
1/2 cup Frozen peas
1/4 cup Fresh parsley, chopped
2 tbsp Lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese for topping.

How to Make This one pot cod casserole Recipe

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

2. Add the cubed potatoes, sliced carrots, and chopped celery to the pot. Stir to combine with the onion and garlic.

3. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring that the vegetables are mostly covered. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

4. Gently stir in the heavy cream and frozen peas. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the cream to thicken slightly. Check out our related One Pot Turkey Casserole recipe!

5. Carefully add the cod pieces to the pot. Make sure they are submerged in the sauce. Cover the pot and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Be careful not to overcook the cod, as it can become dry.

6. Stir in the fresh parsley and lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

7. If desired, sprinkle the one pot cod casserole with shredded Parmesan cheese before serving. This adds a nice salty, cheesy flavor. Enjoy!

How to Serve This one pot cod casserole Recipe

This one pot cod casserole is a complete meal in itself, but a simple side salad or crusty bread can make it even more satisfying. Consider serving it with a green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the casserole. Warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious creamy sauce. A glass of crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, pairs beautifully with the flavors of cod and vegetables. For another take on this dish, try Grilled Cod Casserole 2.

How to Store This one pot cod casserole Recipe

Allow the one pot cod casserole to cool completely before storing. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole for up to 2 months. Be aware that the texture of the potatoes may change slightly after freezing.

To reheat refrigerated casserole, simply microwave in 1-2 minute intervals until heated through.

Tips to Make This one pot cod casserole Recipe

For a thicker sauce, you can add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with two tablespoons of cold water to the pot during the last few minutes of cooking.
If you don’t have Yukon Gold potatoes, you can use Russet potatoes, but they may take a little longer to cook.
Feel free to add other vegetables, such as broccoli florets, green beans, or mushrooms.
For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pot along with the garlic.
Don’t overcook the cod! It’s best to err on the side of undercooking it slightly, as it will continue to cook in the hot sauce.

Helpful Notes for This one pot cod casserole Recipe

The success of this one pot cod casserole relies on using good quality cod fillets. Look for cod that is firm, white, and has a fresh, clean scent. If you are using frozen cod, make sure it is completely thawed before adding it to the pot. Chicken broth is a great base for this recipe, but vegetable broth also works well if you prefer a vegetarian option. Fresh parsley adds a bright, herbaceous note to the dish. If you don’t have fresh parsley, you can use dried parsley, but use about half the amount. Give our One Pot Turkey Casserole 2 a try as well!

Variation of This one pot cod casserole Recipe

Seafood Medley: Add shrimp or scallops along with the cod for a more diverse seafood flavor.
Spicy Version: Incorporate chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy twist.
Mediterranean Style: Use diced tomatoes, olives, and a sprinkle of feta cheese for a Mediterranean flavor.

What kind of cod is best for one pot cod casserole?

You can use any type of cod for this recipe, but thicker fillets like Pacific cod or Atlantic cod are excellent choices, as they hold their shape well during cooking. Fresh or frozen cod works perfectly too; just make sure to thaw frozen cod completely before use.

Can I add vegetables to my one pot cod casserole?

Absolutely! Adding vegetables not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the nutritional content of the casserole. Consider including peas, carrots, or green beans for added texture and taste. You can also use fresh or frozen vegetables, depending on your preference.

How do I prevent the cod from overcooking in the casserole?

To prevent overcooking, add the cod towards the end of the cooking process, when the vegetables are almost tender. Gently nestle the cod fillets into the sauce, cover the pot, and let it simmer until the fish is cooked through, usually about 5-7 minutes. The cod should be opaque and flake easily with a fork.

What can I serve with one pot cod casserole?

One pot cod casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs well with a side of crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce. A simple green salad also complements the richness of the casserole, providing a refreshing balance to the meal. You might also serve it alongside steamed asparagus.

Conclusion

So, are you ready to dive into this comforting one pot cod casserole? It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that brings together the flavors of the sea and the heartiness of vegetables. Gather your ingredients, follow the easy steps, and prepare to enjoy a delicious meal that warms both your body and soul. Don’t hesitate to leave a comment below if you have any questions or variations to share. Happy cooking!