18 Delicious Leftover Cod Recipes for Busy Weeknights

Are you tired of the same old leftovers every weeknight? Do you find yourself rummaging through the fridge, wondering what to do with last night’s cod dinner? Well, wonder no more! We’ve got 18 delicious and creative leftover cod recipes that will transform your meal from bland to grand. From crispy fish cakes to creamy chowders, we’ve got a recipe for every taste and occasion.

In this article, we’ll be exploring the world of cod leftovers, sharing our favorite recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. Whether you’re a fan of international flavors or classic comfort food, we’ve got you covered. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the wonderful world of leftover cod!

Cod Fish Cakes with Lemon Aioli

Cod Fish Cakes with Lemon Aioli
Brighten up your day with these crispy cod fish cakes served with a zesty lemon aioli for dipping.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound cod fillet, flaked
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Lemon aioli ingredients: 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice, 1 minced clove garlic

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine cod, panko breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, and lemon juice. Mix gently.
2. Divide the mixture into 4-6 portions, depending on desired size. Shape each portion into a patty.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Fry patties for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden and crispy.
4. Meanwhile, mix together lemon aioli ingredients in a small bowl.
5. Serve cod fish cakes hot with lemon aioli for dipping.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Creamy Cod and Potato Chowder

Creamy Cod and Potato Chowder
Creamy Cod and Potato Chowder Recipe

Warm up with a comforting bowl of creamy cod and potato chowder, perfect for a chilly evening.

Ingredients:
– 1 pound cod fillet, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add cod, potatoes, milk, and heavy cream. Stir well.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until fish is cooked through and potatoes are tender.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes

Spicy Cod Tacos with Mango Salsa

Spicy Cod Tacos with Mango Salsa
Elevate your taco game with this flavorful and refreshing recipe, combining the sweetness of mango with the spiciness of cod.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound cod fillets, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Mango Salsa (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: diced avocado, sour cream, sliced radishes

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, mix together lime juice, cilantro, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
2. Add the cod pieces to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove the cod from the marinade and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until cooked through.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos with grilled cod, Mango Salsa, and desired toppings.

Mango Salsa:

– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt to taste

Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir to combine. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Baked Cod au Gratin with Cheese

Baked Cod au Gratin with Cheese
A rich and creamy twist on traditional cod recipes, this Baked Cod au Gratin with Cheese is a flavorful and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp butter, softened
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Line a baking dish with parchment paper.
3. Place cod fillets in the prepared dish.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together cheese, cream, butter, and parsley.
5. Pour the cheese mixture evenly over the cod.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and the top is golden brown.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Cod and Corn Fritters with Herb Dip

Cod and Corn Fritters with Herb Dip
A delicious and crispy snack that combines the flaky goodness of cod with the sweetness of corn, served with a refreshing herb dip.

Ingredients:

– 1 can of cod (drained and flaked)
– 1 cup of corn kernels
– 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1/4 teaspoon of paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Herb dip ingredients: 1/2 cup of sour cream, 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley, 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh dill, salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix together cod, corn kernels, flour, egg, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the cod mixture into the oil, flattening slightly with a spatula.
4. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Drain fritters on paper towels.
6. For the herb dip, mix together sour cream, parsley, dill, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
7. Serve fritters hot with the herb dip.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on size of fritters)

Leftover Cod Fried Rice with Vegetables

Leftover Cod Fried Rice with Vegetables
Transform leftover cod into a delicious and satisfying meal with this easy fried rice recipe.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups cooked leftover cod (flaked)
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and cooked cod; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
5. Add the cooked rice to the skillet or wok; stir-fry for about 5 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
6. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using).
8. Serve immediately.

Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes

Cod and Spinach Stuffed Shells

Cod and Spinach Stuffed Shells
A creative twist on classic stuffed shells, this recipe combines the flaky taste of cod with the nutrients of spinach for a delightful seafood pasta dish.

Ingredients:

– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound cod fillet, cooked and flaked
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a bowl, mix cod, spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, basil, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the cod-spinach mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Cover with marinara sauce and bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Mediterranean Cod Pasta with Olives and Tomatoes

Mediterranean Cod Pasta with Olives and Tomatoes
This recipe combines the freshness of Mediterranean cuisine with the comfort of pasta, featuring flaky cod, juicy tomatoes, and savory olives. A perfect blend of flavors and textures for a quick and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz cod fillets
– 1 cup cooked pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add cod fillets and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. In a separate bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, green olives, and chopped parsley (if using).
6. Toss cooked pasta with tomato-olive mixture and cooked cod.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Cod and Chickpea Curry with Coconut Milk

Cod and Chickpea Curry with Coconut Milk
A flavorful and nutritious curry that combines the delicate taste of cod with the nutty flavor of chickpeas, all wrapped up in a rich coconut milk sauce.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb cod fillet, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 can (14.5 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, and ginger; cook until onions are translucent.
3. Add cod, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne (if using); cook 2-3 minutes or until cod is lightly browned.
4. Stir in chickpeas, coconut milk, salt, and pepper.
5. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the curry has thickened slightly and the flavors have melded together.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Cod Caesar Salad with Croutons

Cod Caesar Salad with Croutons
A twist on the classic Caesar salad, this recipe combines flaky cod with crispy croutons and a tangy dressing.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound cod fillet, cooked and flaked
– 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1/2 cup homemade croutons (see below)
– 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
– 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese

Homemade Croutons:

– 1 baguette, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Toss bread cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread croutons on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until crispy.
4. In a large bowl, combine chopped lettuce, flaked cod, and homemade croutons.
5. Drizzle Caesar dressing over the top and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.

Cooking Time:

– Croutons: 10-12 minutes
– Total time: 20-25 minutes

Cod and Sweet Potato Hash

Cod and Sweet Potato Hash
A flavorful and nutritious dish that combines the richness of cod with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, all wrapped up in a crispy hash.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound cod fillets, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss sweet potatoes with 1/2 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper until coated.
3. Spread sweet potatoes on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. While sweet potatoes are roasting, heat the remaining 1/2 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Add cod, bell pepper, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until cod is cooked through.
6. Combine roasted sweet potatoes with cod mixture.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Cod Croquettes with Remoulade Sauce

Cod Croquettes with Remoulade Sauce
A classic French appetizer that combines the flaky texture of cod with the creamy richness of remoulade sauce.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound cod fillet, flaked
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Remoulade Sauce (see below)

Remoulade Sauce:

– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine flaked cod, flour, paprika, salt, and white pepper.
2. Add the egg, lemon juice, and mix until just combined.
3. Using your hands, shape into small patties (about 1 inch in diameter).
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
5. Fry croquettes for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot with Remoulade Sauce.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Cod and Rice Stuffed Peppers

Cod and Rice Stuffed Peppers
This recipe combines the flavors of cod, rice, and bell peppers to create a delicious and healthy meal. The sweet and savory filling is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound cod fillet, cooked and flaked
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheddar cheese for topping

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large bowl, mix cod, rice, onion, garlic, and olive oil.
4. Stuff each pepper with the fish-rice mixture.
5. Place peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
8. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheddar cheese if desired.

Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes

Leftover Cod Quesadillas with Avocado

Leftover Cod Quesadillas with Avocado
Transform last night’s cod into a delicious and easy quesadilla filled with creamy avocado. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner!

Ingredients:

– 2 cups leftover cod (flaked)
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 2 large tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sour cream, salsa, cilantro

Instructions:

1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the cod, followed by half of the cheese.
3. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
5. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the other side is also crispy.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients to make a second quesadilla.
7. Serve hot with mashed avocado on top. Add optional toppings as desired.

Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes

Cod and Leek Pie with Puff Pastry

Cod and Leek Pie with Puff Pastry
Savor the rich flavors of cod, leeks, and puff pastry in this comforting pie. Perfect for a cozy evening meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb cod fillet, skinned and flaked
– 2 medium leeks, cleaned and sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 cup puff pastry, thawed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté leeks and onion in butter until tender.
3. Add flaked cod and season with salt and pepper. Stir gently.
4. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
5. Spoon the cod-leek mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border.
6. Brush edges with beaten egg and fold the other half over the filling. Press gently.
7. Place pie on a baking sheet and brush top with remaining egg.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Cod and White Bean Stew with Garlic Bread

Cod and White Bean Stew with Garlic Bread
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines the sweetness of white beans with the flaky texture of cod, all wrapped up with a crispy garlic bread crust.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb cod fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 4 cups fish stock
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 loaf French bread (about 1 lb)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large pot, sauté the onion, carrots, and celery in butter until tender.
3. Add cod, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until fish is opaque.
4. Stir in white beans, fish stock, and bring to a simmer.
5. Transfer stew to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cod is flaky.
6. Meanwhile, preheat broiler. Slice bread into 1-inch thick slices. Top each slice with minced garlic and butter.
7. Broil bread for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes

Cod and Broccoli Alfredo Pasta

Cod and Broccoli Alfredo Pasta
In this recipe, flaky cod is paired with steamed broccoli and a rich, creamy Alfredo sauce to create a satisfying and flavorful dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound cod fillet, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., fettuccine, linguine)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add cod and cook for 3-4 minutes per side or until cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add butter and let melt. Add broccoli and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. In a large saucepan, combine heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Stir in reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
5. Combine cooked pasta, cod, and broccoli in the saucepan. Toss to coat with Alfredo sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Cod and Mushroom Risotto with Parmesan

Cod and Mushroom Risotto with Parmesan
A creamy and flavorful risotto dish that combines the tender flake of cod, earthy sweetness of mushrooms, and nutty richness of Parmesan cheese.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound cod fillet, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 ounces mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add cod and cook until opaque, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat.
2. In a separate pot, sauté onion and mushrooms in oil until tender, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add Arborio rice to the pot and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes or until lightly toasted.
4. Gradually add warmed broth, stirring constantly, and cook until liquid is absorbed. Repeat process until rice is cooked, about 20-25 minutes.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese and cod. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes

Summary

Transforming leftover cod into a delicious meal has never been easier! This article shares 18 creative recipes to breathe new life into your fishy leftovers. From comforting chowders and pasta dishes to crispy fritters and savory pies, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for spicy tacos or creamy risotto, these cod recipes are sure to impress. So go ahead, get creative, and turn last night’s dinner into a culinary masterpiece tonight!

Comments

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *