Skillet Cod Pasta: Easy One-Pan Dinner

Name: Skillet Cod Pasta: Easy One-Pan Dinner
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound skinless cod fillets, cut into 1 inch pieces; 1 pound penne pasta; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups chicken broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil; Salt to taste; Black pepper to taste; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

February 1, 2026

By:

Navy

Skillet cod pasta is the ultimate weeknight dinner solution. This recipe combines flaky, tender cod with perfectly cooked pasta, all in one convenient skillet. The creamy, flavorful sauce brings everything together for a satisfying and comforting meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes. My grandmother used to make a simple cod stew, and this skillet cod pasta is an elevated, quicker version inspired by those cozy flavors.

This skillet cod pasta is one of those recipes you’ll find yourself making again and again. It’s fuss free, adaptable, and completely delicious.

Why You Will Love This skillet cod pasta Recipe

This skillet cod pasta is a guaranteed crowd pleaser for several reasons:

Comfort Food: It’s warm, comforting, and satisfying, perfect for a chilly evening.
Quick and Easy: Ready in less than 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
One Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup thanks to the skillet format.
Flavorful: Fresh herbs, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese create a bright, delicious flavor profile.
Versatile: Easily customizable with your favorite vegetables or pasta shapes.

My friends are constantly asking for this recipe. It’s become a staple in my kitchen, and I know it will in yours too. I even have a similar recipes for Sheet Pan Cod Pasta 3 and Sheet Pan Cod Pasta 2 if you want to try those as well.

skillet cod pasta - Detail or variation — Close-up detail

Ingredients Needed for This skillet cod pasta Recipe

Cod: 1 pound, skinless cod fillets, cut into 1 inch pieces
Pasta: 1 pound penne pasta or any short pasta shape
Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
Onion: 1 medium, chopped
Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
Chicken Broth: 4 cups
Heavy Cream: 1/2 cup
Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons, freshly squeezed
Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup, grated, plus more for garnish
Fresh Parsley: 1/4 cup, chopped
Fresh Basil: 1/4 cup, chopped
Salt: To taste
Black Pepper: To taste
Red Pepper Flakes: 1/4 teaspoon (optional)

How to Make This skillet cod pasta Recipe

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
3. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
4. Add the pasta to the skillet and cook according to package directions, about 10 12 minutes, or until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Reduce heat to low. Gently stir in the cod pieces, heavy cream, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese.
6. Cook for about 5 7 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork, and the sauce has thickened slightly. Be careful not to overcook the cod!
7. Stir in fresh parsley and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese.

How to Serve This skillet cod pasta Recipe

This skillet cod pasta is delicious on its own, but here are a few serving suggestions:

Serve with a side salad for a light and refreshing meal.
Pair with crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce.
Garnish with a lemon wedge, extra Parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs.
For a more substantial meal, add roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus.
Consider offering garlic bread alongside this dish.

How to Store This skillet cod pasta Recipe

Refrigeration: Store leftover skillet cod pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: While pasta can be frozen and reheated well, freezing cod is generally not recommended, as the texture can change. If you still wish to freeze the dish it is better to omit the cod. Store in an airtight container for up to 1 month.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed. You can also reheat in the microwave. If freezing, add fresh cod after reheating the remaining ingredients.

Tips to Make This skillet cod pasta Recipe

Don’t overcook the cod: Cod cooks quickly, so be careful not to overcook it or it will become dry and rubbery.
Use fresh herbs: Fresh parsley and basil add a bright, vibrant flavor to the dish.
Adjust the sauce: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water. If it’s too thin, simmer for a few more minutes to let it reduce.
Use a good quality Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds the best flavor.
Consider adding wine to the skillet with the onion and garlic for an even deeper flavor.

Helpful Notes for This skillet cod pasta Recipe

Cod: You can substitute other white fish like haddock or tilapia for the cod.
Pasta: Feel free to use your favorite short pasta shape, such as rotini or fusilli.
Chicken Broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for chicken broth.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, you can use half and half or milk. A little corn starch can thicken the sauce if it isn’t rich enough.

Variation of This skillet cod pasta Recipe

Spicy Skillet Cod Pasta: Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier dish.
Vegetable Skillet Cod Pasta: Add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the skillet.
Creamy Tomato Skillet Cod Pasta Use canned diced tomatoes along with chicken broth.
Looking for more dishes like this? Give my Skillet Chicken Pasta recipe a try.

How do I prevent the cod from drying out in skillet cod pasta?

Cook the cod gently over medium heat and avoid overcooking it. Make sure the sauce is sufficiently coating the cod to keep it moist. A quick sear before adding the pasta and sauce is also a great option!

Can I use different types of pasta for skillet cod pasta?

Yes, you can! Short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or farfalle work well. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the pasta is cooked al dente.

What are some variations I can make to skillet cod pasta?

You can add vegetables like spinach, peas, or cherry tomatoes to add flavor and nutrients. Consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for extra zest. You could also substitute the cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version.

How long does skillet cod pasta last in the refrigerator?

Skillet cod pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it down completely before refrigerating. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out.

Conclusion

This skillet cod pasta is a quick, easy, and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. The flaky cod, flavorful sauce, and comforting pasta make it a guaranteed crowd pleaser. Give this skillet cod pasta recipe a try tonight and let me know what you think in the comments below!