There’s something special about Creamy Garlic Butter Cod and Shrimp Skillet: 30-Minute Dinner the way its aroma fills the kitchen and makes everyone wander in for a taste. It is the kind of dish that looks like you spent hours on it, but secretly it comes together in the time it takes to set the table. Clara would tell you to breathe, trust the process, and enjoy how simple ingredients become something memorable.

If you like easy one-skillet dinners that feel indulgent without the fuss, you might also enjoy a creamy pasta riff I often make on busy nights, which is a great companion to this seafood skillet: creamy garlic butter pasta with ground beef. That same homey, comforting vibe runs through both recipes.

Why You’ll Love Making This Creamy Garlic Butter Cod and Shrimp Skillet

This meal is a small collection of kitchen wins: quick to prepare, forgiving in technique, and big on flavor. The butter sizzles, garlic perfumes the room, and the sauce comes together while you wash a few dishes instead of a sink full. It is the kind of recipe you can make on a weekday and feel like a hero.

It works for lots of cooks. If you are short on time, the 30-minute clock is realistic. If you are learning to cook seafood, this recipe will build your confidence with clear searing and gentle simmering steps. If you are feeding family or friends, it looks and tastes more special than the effort suggests.

From a practical point of view, the combination of cod and shrimp is balanced. Cod holds its shape and gives a mild, flaky base. Shrimp adds quick-cooking sweetness and texture. The cream and Parmesan make a sauce that clings to each bite, and lemon brightens it all at the end.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Cod and Shrimp Skillet

“Cooking isn’t about perfection. It’s about enjoying every delicious step.”

Before you dive into the numbered steps, take a moment to gather your ingredients, measure your liquids, and have a plate ready for the seafood once it is seared. This little prep keeps you calm and keeps the skillet hot when it counts.

1. Pat the seafood dry and season with salt and pepper.
   • Use paper towel or a clean kitchen towel to remove as much surface moisture as you can. This helps achieve a golden sear on both the cod and the shrimp.
   • Season evenly and lightly at this stage. You can always adjust later.
2. Heat 1 tbsp oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
   • A heavy-bottomed skillet, such as stainless steel or cast iron, gives the best sear. Let the pan get hot before adding the seafood.
   • The oil raises the smoke point of the butter so it does not burn while you sear.
3. Sear cod for 2-3 minutes per side until golden; remove.
   • Lay the cod away from you so any splatter goes the other way. Do not move the fillet too soon. Let it form a golden crust before flipping.
   • If your cod pieces are thick, count on the longer end of the time range. The exterior should be golden and the interior opaque and just firm.
4. Sear shrimp for 1 minute per side until pink; remove.
   • Shrimp cook very fast. One minute per side over medium-high heat gives a sweet, slightly crisp surface and a tender interior.
   • Remove shrimp as soon as they are pink and opaque. Overcooking makes them rubbery.
5. Reduce heat to medium and melt remaining 2 tbsp butter in the skillet.
   • After the seafood is out, the browned bits left in the pan are flavor gold. Lower the heat so the butter does not brown too much; we want to coax those bits into the sauce.
6. Sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
   • Garlic cooks quickly and will go from fragrant to bitter if it burns. Stir constantly and watch for the scent to bloom.
7. Deglaze with chicken broth, scraping up browned bits.
   • Pour the chicken broth in while stirring with a wooden spoon to lift all the flavorful bits from the pan. This is where much of the dish’s deep flavor comes from.
8. Stir in cream, Parmesan, mustard, paprika, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.
   • Add the cream and Parmesan slowly while stirring so the cheese melts smoothly into the sauce.
   • Dijon mustard is optional but gives a gentle tang that brightens the cream. Taste and adjust seasoning.
9. Let sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
   • Simmer gently. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon. If it seems too thin, cook one or two minutes more, stirring occasionally.
   • Be patient here. The sauce will thicken slightly as it cools too.
10. Return seafood to the pan and spoon sauce over the top.

• Nestle the cod and shrimp gently into the sauce so every piece gets a little blanket of cream. Spoon the sauce over the cod to keep it moist.

11. Simmer gently for 3-5 minutes to warm through.

• You are not cooking raw seafood at this point; you are bringing everything together. Keep the heat low so the cod stays tender and the shrimp stay perfect.
• Use the shorter time if your cod was fully cooked during sear, or longer if it was thick.

12. Stir in lemon juice and garnish with parsley.

• A splash of fresh lemon brightens the whole skillet. Chop parsley and sprinkle it on at the end for color and freshness.
• Taste for salt and pepper one last time and adjust as needed.

Each of these steps is designed to keep things clear and steady. If the sauce thickens more than you like, add a tablespoon or two of chicken broth to loosen it. If you accidentally overcook a shrimp, remove it immediately to stop carryover cooking.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Creamy Garlic Butter Cod and Shrimp Skillet

500 g (1 lb) Cod Fillets, chunked use firm, skinless pieces for easy plating.
10–12 Medium Shrimp, peeled & deveined fresh or thawed frozen shrimp work well.
1 tbsp Olive Oil helps the butter from burning while searing.
3 tbsp Butter, divided use real butter for rich flavor.
4 cloves Garlic, minced fresh garlic gives the best aroma.
1 cup Heavy Cream creates the silky, luxurious sauce.
½ cup Chicken Broth (or seafood broth) deglazes the pan and adds depth.
½ cup Parmesan Cheese, grated freshly grated melts more evenly.
1 tsp Dijon Mustard (optional) a little tang helps balance the cream.
½ tsp Paprika for mild warmth and color.
½ tsp Italian Seasoning a blend of herbs that complements seafood.
¼ tsp Red Pepper Flakes (optional) a hint of heat if you like it.
2 tbsp Fresh Parsley, chopped fresh herbs make all the difference.
½ Lemon, juiced brightens the finished dish.
Salt & Black Pepper to taste season as you go, and taste at the end.

If you want to keep things simpler, you can replace the chicken broth with a low-sodium vegetable broth, or for deeper seafood flavor use a light seafood stock. The Parmesan contributes saltiness, so add salt gradually.

Directions: Cooking with Confidence

1. Pat seafood dry and season with salt and pepper.
2. Heat 1 tbsp oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Sear cod for 2-3 minutes per side until golden; remove.
4. Sear shrimp for 1 minute per side until pink; remove.
5. Reduce heat to medium and melt remaining 2 tbsp butter in the skillet.
6. Sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
7. Deglaze with chicken broth, scraping up browned bits.
8. Stir in cream, parmesan, mustard, paprika, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.
9. Let sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
10. Return seafood to the pan and spoon sauce over the top.
11. Simmer gently for 3-5 minutes to warm through.
12. Stir in lemon juice and garnish with parsley.

Notes on timing and doneness:

• The cod should be opaque and flake with a fork. If it resists flaking, give it a minute or two more in the sauce, covered loosely.
• Shrimp are done when they curl and turn pink. Avoid a tight curl which signals overcooking.
• If you like a thicker sauce, remove the seafood and let the sauce reduce a little more, then return the seafood just to warm.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Butter Cod and Shrimp Skillet

This skillet is lovely over simple sides that soak up the sauce. Spoon the creamy sauce over each serving and add a little extra parsley for color.

• Over rice. Fluffy white rice or a light pilaf soaks the sauce and keeps the meal comforting.
• With crusty bread. A torn piece of baguette is perfect for sopping up the last drops.
• With buttery pasta. Toss cooked linguine or fettuccine with a little olive oil and place the seafood on top for a heartier plate.
• With roasted vegetables. Quick-roasted asparagus, green beans, or cherry tomatoes add freshness and texture.

For plating, arrange the cod in the center, nestle shrimp around it, spoon sauce over the fillets, and finish with a lemon wedge on the side. A small sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan tableside is always welcome.

If you are hosting, consider serving family-style in the skillet on a trivet so everyone can serve themselves. It looks warm and inviting.

How to Store Creamy Garlic Butter Cod and Shrimp Skillet

Leftovers will hold for up to 2 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. Cream-based sauces thicken in the fridge, so plan to reheat gently.

• To reheat on the stove: Warm a small splash of milk or broth in a skillet over low heat, add the seafood and sauce, and heat slowly while stirring until warmed. Keep the heat low to avoid separating the sauce.
• To reheat in the microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish, add a tablespoon of cream or broth, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second bursts, stirring between each burst.
• Freezing is not recommended for best texture. Cream sauces can separate when frozen and thawed.

If you know you want leftovers, cook the seafood slightly less during the first cook and finish it at reheat for the best texture. Another tip is to store sauce and seafood separately if you plan ahead. This lets you reheat the sauce and then warm the seafood briefly to avoid overcooking.

For future meal planning, this skillet also pairs well with a leftover grain bowl. Add a handful of greens, a spoonful of the warm sauce, and a squeeze of lemon for a quick lunch.

Clara’s Tips for Success

• Use room temperature seafood when possible. Let raw cod and shrimp sit on the counter for 10 to 15 minutes to remove chill for more even cooking.
• Dry the fish well. A dry surface ensures a nice sear. Pat until the paper towel no longer picks up moisture.
• Grate Parmesan fresh. Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that hamper smooth melting.
• Taste as you go. Cream and cheese add saltiness. Season little by little and taste toward the end.
• Keep a low bubble. Simmer the sauce gently; high heat can break the emulsion and make the sauce grainy.

These are simple habits that turn good results into reliable results. They are also easy to remember when you cook this dish repeatedly.

Simple Variations to Try

• Lemon Herb Twist: Add extra lemon zest and a tablespoon of chopped dill when you finish for a bright, herb-forward version.
• Spicy Cajun: Season the cod and shrimp with Cajun seasoning before searing and skip the red pepper flakes. Add a splash of hot sauce to the cream for depth.
• Tomato Cream: Stir in a half cup of crushed tomatoes or cherry tomatoes in step 8 for a creamy tomato reduction. It gives a pleasant acidity.
• Lightened Version: Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and reduce Parmesan slightly. Keep a careful eye on sauce thickness.
• Veggie Boost: Add spinach to the sauce in the last two minutes and let it wilt. Peas or blanched asparagus also work well.

Each variation keeps the spirit of the original but lets you tailor flavors to what you have on hand or what you and your family prefer.

Creamy Garlic Butter Cod and Shrimp Skillet

A quick and indulgent one-skillet dinner featuring cod and shrimp in a creamy garlic butter sauce, perfect for any weeknight meal.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American, Seafood

Calories: 400

Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

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Seafood

• 500 g Cod Fillets, chunked Use firm, skinless pieces for easy plating.
• 10-12 medium Shrimp, peeled & deveined Fresh or thawed frozen shrimp work well.

Cooking Essentials

• 1 tbsp Olive Oil Helps the butter from burning while searing.
• 3 tbsp Butter, divided Use real butter for rich flavor.

Sauce Ingredients

• 4 cloves Garlic, minced Fresh garlic gives the best aroma.
• 1 cup Heavy Cream Creates a silky, luxurious sauce.
• ½ cup Chicken Broth (or seafood broth) Deglazes the pan and adds depth.
• ½ cup Parmesan Cheese, grated Freshly grated melts more evenly.
• 1 tsp Dijon Mustard (optional) A little tang helps balance the cream.
• ½ tsp Paprika For mild warmth and color.
• ½ tsp Italian Seasoning A blend of herbs that complements seafood.
• ¼ tsp Red Pepper Flakes (optional) A hint of heat if you like it.
• 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley, chopped Fresh herbs make all the difference.
• ½ Lemon juiced Brightens the finished dish.
• to taste none Salt & Black Pepper Season as you go, and taste at the end.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Pat the seafood dry and season with salt and pepper.
2. Heat 1 tbsp oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Cooking Seafood

1. Sear cod for 2-3 minutes per side until golden; remove.
2. Sear shrimp for 1 minute per side until pink; remove.

Making the Sauce

1. Reduce heat to medium and melt remaining 2 tbsp butter in the skillet.
2. Sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Deglaze with chicken broth, scraping up the browned bits.
4. Stir in cream, Parmesan, mustard, paprika, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.
5. Let sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.

Finishing Touches

1. Return seafood to the pan and spoon sauce over the top.
2. Simmer gently for 3-5 minutes to warm through.
3. Stir in lemon juice and garnish with parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 25gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gSodium: 600mgSugar: 2g

Notes

For best results, serve over rice, crusty bread, or pasta. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

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FAQs About Creamy Garlic Butter Cod and Shrimp Skillet: 30-Minute Dinner

Additional Practical Notes from Clara’s Kitchen

• Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing. Give each piece of seafood space so it browns rather than steams.
• If your sauce separates, whisk in a teaspoon of cold butter off the heat to help bring it back together.
• Fresh garlic is best, but if you must use jarred minced garlic, add it later and reduce the cooking time to avoid a harsh flavor.
• Use a non-reactive pan for acidic additions like lemon or tomatoes. Stainless steel or enameled cast iron are good choices.

Where This Dish Fits on Your Weekly Menu

This recipe is an excellent midweek hero. It fits with a focus on quick meals that still feel special. Make it on nights when you want something comforting but do not have time for a long cook. It also makes a great date-night meal at home because it looks and tastes elevated without complicated steps.

If you keep a list of simple, reliable dinners, this skillet should be on it. It pairs well with a crisp salad, roasted potatoes, or simply lemony rice for a complete plate. For more comfortable, homey side ideas that pair well across many dishes, check out a buttery roll recipe I love here: buttery cheese garlic rolls.

Pairings and Wine Notes

For drinks, a crisp white wine with good acidity will complement the cream. Think Sauvignon Blanc or a dry Pinot Grigio. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with a slice of lemon or a lightly brewed iced tea fits nicely.

Simple sides like green beans or a mixed green salad with vinaigrette offer texture contrast and a palate cleanser between creamier bites. Roasted seasonal vegetables bring color and balance to the plate.

Feeding Different Diets

• Gluten-free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free if you use a gluten-free chicken broth and check your Parmesan label.
• Lower-calorie: Use half-and-half and skip the extra butter, and serve over a bed of greens or cauliflower rice.
• Dairy-free: Replace butter with olive oil and use a dairy-free cream substitute. Omit Parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese made for melting.

For any dietary switch, keep seasonings balanced and adjust salt after tasting the finished dish.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sauce is too thin

• Simmer a little longer until it coats the back of a spoon. If you are in a hurry, make a cornstarch slurry with 1 tsp cornstarch and 1 tbsp cold water and whisk it into the simmering sauce.

Sauce is grainy or separated

• Remove from heat. Whisk in a small pat of cold butter to help re-emulsify. If needed, very slowly whisk in a tablespoon of warm milk.

Seafood overcooked

• Reduce heat, remove cooked pieces, and keep them warm while finishing the sauce. For future cooks, lower the stove temperature or sear for less time.

Garlic burned

• If garlic goes brown quickly, start again with fresh butter and garlic measured out, and keep the heat lower.

Small adjustments fix most problems. Keep calm, and remember the food is still delicious even if it is not perfect.

Final Encouragement or Closing Note

I hope this Creamy Garlic Butter Cod and Shrimp Skillet: 30-Minute Dinner helps you discover how simple and rewarding homemade cooking can be. You’ve got this. The next time you hear the sizzle of butter and garlic, remember you are making comfort and confidence at the same time.

Conclusion

If you enjoy recipes that mix quick cooking with deep flavor, you might like this one-pan seafood pasta idea from another home cook: Shrimp Orzo (30-Minute, One-Pan Meal) – Julia’s Album, which shares the same weeknight-friendly spirit. For more creamy garlic shrimp inspiration that complements this skillet, see this lovely guide: Creamy Garlic Shrimp – Ahead of Thyme.

Thank you for cooking with me today. Take a breath, savor the smells, and enjoy your meal.