Cod in Spicy Tomato Sauce: A Hearty and Flavorful Delight”
If you’re in search of a dish that’s both comforting and packed with bold flavors, look no further than Cod in Spicy Tomato Sauce. This recipe pairs the delicate, flaky texture of cod with the rich and robust flavors of a spicy tomato sauce, creating a meal that’s satisfying and full of character.

Why You’ll Love Cod in Spicy Tomato Sauce
🔥 Bold and Spicy Flavor
The spicy tomato sauce is the star of this dish, made with garlic, onions, and chili flakes for a warm kick. It complements the mild flavor of cod perfectly.
🐟 Delicate and Flaky Cod
Cod is a lean and versatile fish that absorbs the flavors of the sauce beautifully, offering a tender bite with every forkful.
⏱️ Quick and Easy
This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights when you want something delicious and wholesome.
🍅 Healthy and Nutritious
The tomato-based sauce is rich in antioxidants like lycopene, and cod is a great source of lean protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential nutrients.
Ingredients for Cod in Spicy Tomato Sauce
Here’s what you’ll need to create this flavorful dish:
- 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
- Lemon wedges for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Sear the Cod
Pat the cod fillets dry with a paper towel and season both sides with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the cod fillets for 2-3 minutes on each side until lightly golden but not fully cooked. Remove the cod and set aside.
2️⃣ Prepare the Sauce Base
In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed. Sauté the chopped onion over medium heat until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3️⃣ Build the Spicy Tomato Sauce
Stir in the tomato paste, smoked paprika, and red chili flakes. Cook for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices. Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, broth, and a pinch of sugar (if desired). Stir well and let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes to thicken and develop flavor.
4️⃣ Simmer the Cod in the Sauce
Nestle the seared cod fillets into the sauce. Spoon some sauce over the top of the fish. Cover the skillet and simmer for 6-8 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
5️⃣ Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle fresh parsley or basil over the dish. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.
Tips for Perfect Cod in Spicy Tomato Sauce
🌶️ Adjust the Spice Level
If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of chili flakes. For more heat, add fresh chopped chili or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
🐟 Use Fresh Cod
For the best flavor and texture, opt for fresh cod. If using frozen fillets, ensure they’re fully thawed and patted dry.
🍅 Enhance the Sauce
Adding a splash of white wine or balsamic vinegar can deepen the flavor of the tomato sauce.
🥖 Serve with Bread
Crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce, making it a must-have side.

Cod in Spicy Tomato Sauce
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets 6 oz each
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 1 can 14 oz crushed tomatoes
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp red chili flakes
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp sugar optional
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Pat cod fillets dry and season with salt and pepper. Sear in a skillet with olive oil for 2-3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté onion in the same skillet until translucent. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Stir in tomato paste, smoked paprika, and chili flakes. Add crushed tomatoes, broth, oregano, and sugar. Simmer for 5-7 minutes.
- Return cod to the skillet, spoon sauce over fillets, and simmer for 6-8 minutes until cooked through.
- Garnish with parsley or basil and serve with lemon wedges.