Air Fryer Cod Pasta: The Easiest Dinner in 30 Minutes

January 2, 2026

By:

air fryer cod pasta is a dish that brings back fond memories of quick weeknight dinners my grandmother used to whip up. She always had a knack for making the most of simple ingredients, and this recipe is a testament to that. Using the air fryer, we can elevate simple cod and pasta to a delicious and satisfying meal. Making air fryer cod pasta is easier than you can imagine!

I love how this recipe perfectly combines my love for no fuss cooking with my desire to create food that comforts and nourishes. You can have incredible flavors on the table in well under an hour. Follow us on Pinterest for more easy and delicious recipes!

Why You Will Love This air fryer cod pasta Recipe

This air fryer cod pasta recipe is pure comfort food, made exceptionally fast thanks to the air fryer. Forget slaving over a hot stove for hours; this meal comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights. The flaky, perfectly cooked cod paired with your favorite pasta and a flavorful sauce is a guaranteed crowd pleaser. It's a hearty, flavorful, and satisfying meal that the entire family will enjoy. Plus, clean up is a breeze! I find so much joy in creating recipes like this that are nourishing and easy.

Ingredients Needed for This air fryer cod pasta Recipe

Cod: 1 pound cod fillets, skinless
Pasta: 1 pound of your favorite pasta (penne, rotini, or spaghetti work well)
Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, divided
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
Cherry Tomatoes: 1 pint, halved
Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon
Fresh Basil: 1/4 cup, chopped
Red Pepper Flakes: 1/4 teaspoon (optional)
Salt & Pepper: To taste
Grated Parmesan Cheese: For serving (optional)

How to Make This air fryer cod pasta Recipe

Cook pasta according to package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
While the pasta is cooking, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
Drizzle the cod fillets with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
Place the cod fillets in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. If your air fryer is small, you may need to cook the cod in batches. Cook for 8 10 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the cod.
While the cod is cooking, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 5 7 minutes, or until they begin to soften and release their juices.
Stir in the lemon juice, red pepper flakes (if using), and cooked pasta. Toss to combine. If the pasta seems dry, add a little of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
Gently flake the cooked cod into the pasta.
Stir in the fresh basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese (if desired).

If you love this recipe, be sure to check out my Air Fryer Chicken Pasta.

How to Serve This air fryer cod pasta Recipe

This air fryer cod pasta is delicious served as a complete meal on its own. You can enhance the flavor by sprinkling fresh parsley on top. For extra greens, add a side of steamed broccoli or a simple salad. Consider serving with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce, or even an Air Fryer Cod Salad as a starter.

How to Store This air fryer cod pasta Recipe

Store leftover air fryer cod pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out. Freezing is not recommended as the pasta may become mushy upon thawing.

Tips to Make This air fryer cod pasta Recipe

For a richer flavor, use sun dried tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes. You can also try adding a splash of white wine to the skillet while cooking the tomato sauce.
If you don't have fresh basil on hand, dried basil can be substituted. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried basil.
To add more protein to the dish, stir in cooked shrimp or chicken along with the cod.
Don't crowd the air fryer basket when cooking the cod. Overcrowding will cause the cod to steam instead of brown and crisp up. Be very keen on following instructions for your air fryer.

Helpful Notes for This air fryer cod pasta Recipe

Cod is a mild flavored white fish that cooks quickly in the air fryer. If you can't find cod, you can substitute other white fish such as haddock or tilapia. Be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. I highly recommend using fresh cod fillets for the best flavor and texture. Fresh herbs really enhance the delicious aroma.

Variation of This air fryer cod pasta Recipe

For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce. You could also try adding different vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach, to the pasta. For a creamy version, stir in a dollop of ricotta cheese or a splash of heavy cream at the end of cooking. You can even try using different types of pasta. If you feel like air fryer tacos, then check this Air Fryer Chicken Tacos.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to cook cod in the air fryer?

Typically, cod fillets cook in the air fryer for about 8-12 minutes, depending on the thickness and the air fryer model. It’s crucial to check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.

What temperature is best for air frying cod?

The ideal temperature for air frying cod is usually between 380°F (190°C) and 400°F (200°C). This range allows the cod to cook through evenly while developing a slightly crispy exterior.

Can I use frozen cod for air fryer pasta?

Yes, you can use frozen cod for air fryer pasta, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking. If you’re short on time, you can air fry it frozen, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and potentially the temperature.

What kind of pasta goes well with air fryer cod?

Various pasta shapes work well with air fryer cod, including linguine, spaghetti, penne, and rotini. Choose a pasta that complements your sauce and allows the cod to nestle nicely among the strands or shapes.

Conclusion

Give this air fryer cod pasta recipe a try. It's a quick, easy, and delicious meal that's perfect for busy weeknights. With flaky, perfectly cooked cod and a flavorful tomato sauce, it's sure to become a family favorite. Share your own experiences and variations in the comments below – I'd love to hear how you make this air fryer cod pasta your own!