Pan-Seared Cod with Tomato Herb Butter Sauce

This quick and elegant pan-seared cod with Tomato Herb Butter Sauce is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a restaurant-quality meal at home. Lightly seasoned cod fillets are seared to golden perfection and paired with a vibrant, buttery tomato and garlic sauce—all made in one skillet in just 15 minutes. It’s a fresh, flavorful dish that works equally well for a weeknight dinner or an elevated at-home date night.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is fast, healthy, and full of flavor. The cod cooks in under 10 minutes, and the rich tomato herb butter sauce comes together right in the same pan—meaning fewer dishes and more time to enjoy. With juicy cherry tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and a touch of lemon, every bite is bright and satisfying. It’s naturally gluten-free, low-carb, and customizable with whatever fresh herbs you have on hand.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1½ lbs boneless, skinless cod fillets (about four 6 oz pieces, 1-inch thick)

• 1 tsp fine sea salt, divided

• ¾ tsp freshly ground black pepper, divided

• 2 tbsp extra-light olive oil, plus more as needed

For the Sauce:

• ¼ cup unsalted butter (4 tbsp)

• ¼ cup vegetable broth

• 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice

• 3 cups cherry or grape tomatoes

• 2 garlic cloves, minced (about 1 tablespoon)

• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or basil, for garnish

Directions

1. Dry & Season: Pat cod fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides evenly with ¾ teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper.

2. Sear: Heat olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the cod fillets top-side down. Sear for 3–4 minutes without moving, until golden brown.

3. Flip the fillets, reduce heat to medium, and cook for an additional 2–4 minutes until the cod is opaque in the center and flakes easily with a fork (internal temperature should reach 145°F). Transfer to a plate and tent with foil.

4. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add butter, vegetable broth, lemon juice, tomatoes, and garlic. Scrape up any browned bits from the pan using a wooden spoon. Simmer for 3–4 minutes, or until the tomatoes begin to burst and the liquid is slightly reduced. Season with the remaining ¼ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper.

5. Serve: Return the cod to the skillet and spoon the sauce over the fillets. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 servings
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Add Heat: Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

• Use Different Fish: Substitute cod with haddock, halibut, or sea bass for a similar result.

• Add Veggies: Stir in baby spinach or zucchini rounds during the last minute of cooking for extra greens.

• Mediterranean Twist: Add kalamata olives and capers for a briny contrast.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave at 50% power in 30-second intervals to avoid overcooking the fish.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cod fillets?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them very dry before cooking to ensure a good sear.

What can I serve with this dish?

Serve it with crusty bread, rice, mashed potatoes, or a light green salad for a complete meal.

Can I use a different type of tomato?

Yes, any small, sweet tomato variety like grape or Campari tomatoes works well.

How do I know when cod is cooked?

Cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.

What if my tomatoes don’t burst?

Gently press a few with the back of a spoon to encourage them to release their juices.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, it’s naturally low in carbs and fits well within a keto or low-carb lifestyle.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Swap the butter with a dairy-free butter substitute or extra olive oil for a dairy-free version.

What’s the best skillet to use?

A nonstick or stainless steel skillet works well for searing fish. Cast iron is also a great option if well-seasoned.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the sauce can be made in advance and reheated gently. Add the cod just before serving.

How do I keep the fish from sticking to the pan?

Make sure the pan and oil are hot before adding the fish, and don’t move the fillets until they naturally release from the pan.

Conclusion

Pan-Seared Cod with Tomato Herb Butter Sauce is a quick, flavorful, and elegant meal that’s ready in just 15 minutes. It delivers the perfect balance of flaky fish, juicy tomatoes, and rich, buttery sauce—making it a go-to dinner that’s easy enough for weeknights but impressive enough for guests. Try it once, and it’ll become a staple in your seafood rotation.

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