Sheet Pan Cod Stew: The Easiest Weeknight Dinner

January 7, 2026

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Sheet pan cod stew is a game changer, I’m telling you! This isn’t your grandmother’s heavy, simmering stew that takes hours to prepare. Instead, we’re embracing the ease and flavor explosion of a sheet pan, bringing together flaky cod, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic herbs for a quick and satisfying meal. The simple beauty of this sheet pan cod stew lies in its minimal cleanup and maximum deliciousness, perfect for busy weeknights.

Growing up, stews were a Sunday tradition, but let’s be honest, sometimes you just don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. That’s where the inspiration for this sheet pan cod stew came from – a desire for the comforting flavors of stew without the all day commitment. So, buckle up, because we’re about to dive into a recipe that will transform your weeknight dinners!

Why You Will Love This sheet pan cod stew Recipe

This recipe is truly a weeknight champion. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. The cod is incredibly tender, flaky, and flavorful after roasting surrounded by the tomatoes and herbs.

What makes this recipe special? It’s the simple ingredients working together to create a complex flavor profile. Plus, the sheet pan method means minimal cleanup.

Follow us on Pinterest to discover more delicious and easy recipes! I always share new ideas and time saving cooking tips there!
sheet pan cod stew - Detail or variation
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And, if you love this recipe, you should really try my Sheet Pan Turkey Stew or Sheet Pan Chicken Stew, both are incredibly delicious options for a fast healthy meal.

Ingredients Needed for This sheet pan cod stew Recipe

  • 1.5 pounds cod fillets, skin removed
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 red onion, sliced
  • 2 bell peppers (any color), chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, but recommended)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 tablespoon fresh oregano leaves
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Lemon wedges for serving
  • Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

How to Make This sheet pan cod stew Recipe

  1. 1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a large sheet pan with olive oil or line with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  1. 2. In a large bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, chopped bell peppers, and minced garlic. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat. Season with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add the thyme and oregano and toss again.
  1. 3. Spread the vegetable mixture evenly across the prepared sheet pan.
  1. 4. Place the cod fillets on top of the vegetables, spacing them evenly. Season the cod with salt and pepper.
  1. 5. If using, pour the white wine over the vegetables and cod. This adds a lovely depth of flavor and helps keep the cod moist.
  1. 6. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork and the vegetables are tender. Cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the cod fillets.
  1. 7. Remove the sheet pan from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
  1. 8. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges.

How to Serve This sheet pan cod stew Recipe

Serve this delightful sheet pan cod stew fresh from the oven. A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the flavors beautifully.

I like to enjoy this stew alongside crusty bread for soaking up all those delicious juices. It also pairs well with a simple green salad for a light and balanced meal.

Consider serving this stew over quinoa or couscous for a heartier option.

How to Store This sheet pan cod stew Recipe

Allow any leftovers to cool completely before storing.

Refrigerate the sheet pan cod stew in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezing isn’t recommended, as the texture of the cod and vegetables may change.

Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

Tips to Make This sheet pan cod stew Recipe

  • Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to substitute other vegetables like zucchini, potatoes, or carrots. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper. Shrimp can be added for a great recipe.
  • Success Tip: Ensure your sheet pan is large enough so vegetables are not overcrowded. Overcrowding will cause steaming instead of roasting. The vegetables will be soft and not flavorful.
  • Pro Tip: Pat the cod fillets dry before placing them on the sheet pan to help them brown slightly.
  • Best results: For best flavor use fresh herbs, dried can be substituted at a 1:3 ratio.

Helpful Notes for This sheet pan cod stew Recipe

Make sure to use good quality cod. Fresh cod is preferable, but frozen cod (thawed completely) will work too.

Feel free adjust seasonings based on your families preference. For a more zesty flavor, add lemon zest before putting the pan in the oven.

Variation of This sheet pan cod stew Recipe

For a Mediterranean twist, add Kalamata olives and feta cheese crumbles before serving. Try adding sundried tomatoes for a more intense flavor!

If you’re looking for a richer flavor, stir in a dollop of pesto or a swirl of cream at the end.

What makes sheet pan cod stew so easy?

Sheet pan cod stew simplifies traditional stew preparation by using a single sheet pan for cooking. This reduces cleanup and requires minimal active cooking time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Can I substitute other vegetables in the sheet pan cod stew?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preference and what you have on hand. Potatoes, carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini all work well in sheet pan cod stew.

How long does it take to cook sheet pan cod stew?

Sheet pan cod stew typically cooks in about 20-25 minutes at 400°F (200°C). The exact cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the cod fillets and the size of the vegetables.

What kind of cod is best for sheet pan cod stew?

Pacific cod or Atlantic cod are both great choices for sheet pan cod stew. Look for firm, white fillets that are about 1 inch thick for optimal cooking.

Conclusion

Give this sheet pan cod stew a try, and I promise you’ll discover how easy and flavorful a weeknight dinner can be. It’s a wholesome meal that’s sure to become a family favorite, just like my Sheet Pan Cod Stew. Let me know if you have questions or comments on this simple recipe below!

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Sheet Pan Cod Stew: The Easiest Weeknight Dinner


  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

A quick and easy sheet pan cod stew recipe, packed with flaky cod, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic herbs. Perfect for a healthy and delicious weeknight meal!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds cod fillets, skin removed
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 red onion, sliced
  • 2 bell peppers (any color), chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, but recommended)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 tablespoon fresh oregano leaves
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Lemon wedges for serving
  • Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a large sheet pan.
  2. In a bowl, combine tomatoes, onion, bell peppers, and garlic. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add thyme and oregano, toss.
  3. Spread vegetables on the sheet pan.
  4. Place cod fillets on top, season with salt and pepper.
  5. Pour white wine over vegetables and cod (optional).
  6. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until cod is cooked and flakes easily and vegetables are tender.
  7. Remove from oven and let rest a few minutes.
  8. Garnish with parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 7g
  • Sodium: 250mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: cod, sheet pan, stew, easy recipe, healthy, fish

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