45+ Delicious Cast Iron Dutch Oven Fish Recipes for Every Taste

When it comes to cooking fish, few methods are as versatile and effective as using a cast iron Dutch oven.

This heavy-duty, heat-retaining pot ensures that your fish dishes are cooked evenly, allowing flavors to infuse deeply while maintaining the fish’s natural tenderness.

Whether you’re cooking up a quick weeknight dinner or preparing a feast for friends and family, a Dutch oven can elevate your fish recipes with ease.
From tender poached fillets to crispy, golden crusts, the Dutch oven’s even heat distribution allows for endless possibilities.

In this blog article, we’ve gathered over 45 delicious and diverse fish recipes perfect for your cast iron Dutch oven.

Each recipe is designed to make the most of this incredibly versatile cooking tool, delivering mouthwatering results every time.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned chef, you’ll find the ideal dish for any occasion in this collection of cast iron Dutch oven fish recipes.

45+ Delicious Cast Iron Dutch Oven Fish Recipes for Every Taste

Cooking fish in a cast iron Dutch oven is a game-changer.

The even heat, moisture retention, and ability to create both crispy and tender textures make it the perfect tool for cooking a wide variety of fish.

Whether you’re craving a rich seafood stew, a zesty grilled fillet, or a delicate poached fish, the Dutch oven makes it easy to bring all your fish recipe dreams to life.

With over 45 delicious ideas to explore, you’ll never run out of exciting fish dishes to try. So, dust off that Dutch oven and start creating your next culinary masterpiece.

Lemon Herb Baked Cod

This light and flavorful dish combines the delicate taste of cod with fresh herbs and a zesty lemon kick. Perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, it’s quick to prepare and highlights the versatility of your cast iron Dutch oven.

Ingredients:

• 4 cod fillets
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 lemons (1 sliced, 1 juiced)
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Coat the Dutch oven with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
3. Season the cod fillets with salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano on both sides.
4. Arrange lemon slices at the bottom of the Dutch oven, and place the cod fillets on top.
5. Drizzle the fillets with lemon juice and the remaining olive oil. Sprinkle minced garlic evenly.
6. Cover the Dutch oven with its lid and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
7. Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with steamed vegetables or rice.

The Lemon Herb Baked Cod is a simple yet impressive dish that brings restaurant-quality flavors to your table. Cooking in a Dutch oven ensures the fish remains tender and juicy while infusing it with vibrant citrus and herbaceous notes.

Dutch Oven Salmon Chowder

Rich, creamy, and packed with nutrients, this salmon chowder is a comforting meal perfect for chilly evenings. Using a cast iron Dutch oven enhances the depth of flavors and ensures even cooking, making this dish a family favorite.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb salmon fillet, cubed
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 4 cups chicken or fish stock
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh dill for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat butter in the Dutch oven over medium heat. Sauté onion, celery, and carrots until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the potatoes, thyme, and bay leaf. Pour in the stock, bringing it to a gentle boil. Simmer for 15 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
3. Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Add the salmon cubes, cooking for 5-7 minutes or until the salmon is just cooked through.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf.
5. Garnish with fresh dill and serve hot with crusty bread.

Dutch Oven Salmon Chowder is a wholesome dish that warms both the body and soul. The creamy broth complements the tender salmon and hearty vegetables, making it an unforgettable culinary experience.

Mediterranean Braised Sea Bass

This Mediterranean-inspired recipe pairs the delicate flavors of sea bass with a robust tomato-based sauce infused with olives, capers, and aromatic spices. The cast iron Dutch oven ensures even heat distribution, locking in the vibrant flavors.

Ingredients:

• 4 sea bass fillets
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, sliced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 1/4 cup kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• 2 tablespoons capers, drained
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in the Dutch oven over medium heat. Sauté the onion until softened, then add garlic and cook for another minute.
2. Stir in the diced tomatoes, white wine, smoked paprika, and dried basil. Simmer for 10 minutes to blend the flavors.
3. Nestle the sea bass fillets into the sauce. Add olives and capers around the fish.
4. Cover the Dutch oven and simmer on low heat for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily.
5. Garnish with fresh basil and serve with crusty bread or over a bed of couscous.

The Mediterranean Braised Sea Bass is a celebration of vibrant flavors and simple cooking techniques. This dish is perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a gourmet meal at home, with your Dutch oven ensuring every bite is infused with rich, savory goodness.

Spicy Thai Coconut Curry Fish

This aromatic dish combines the richness of coconut milk with the heat of Thai spices, creating a bold and flavorful experience. Using your Dutch oven ensures the fish is perfectly cooked and the sauce develops a deep, complex flavor. This is a perfect choice for anyone craving a comforting yet exotic meal.

Ingredients:

• 4 firm white fish fillets (such as tilapia or snapper)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely sliced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons red curry paste
• 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 lime, juiced
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat vegetable oil in the Dutch oven over medium heat. Sauté the onion until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and ginger, cooking for 1 minute.
2. Stir in the red curry paste and cook for another minute to release its aroma.
3. Add the coconut milk, fish sauce, and brown sugar. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Nestle the fish fillets into the sauce, covering them partially with the liquid. Add the cherry tomatoes.
5. Cover the Dutch oven and simmer gently for 10-12 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through.
6. Squeeze lime juice over the dish, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve with jasmine rice.

The Spicy Thai Coconut Curry Fish is a fusion of creamy and spicy flavors that transport you straight to Thailand. Your Dutch oven keeps the dish vibrant while perfectly cooking the fish, making it a show-stopping dish for any occasion.

Cajun Blackened Catfish with Vegetables

Packed with smoky, bold flavors, this Cajun Blackened Catfish dish is a feast for the senses. Served alongside tender roasted vegetables, it’s a satisfying meal that’s both healthy and bursting with taste. The Dutch oven ensures perfect cooking and brings out the spices’ smoky aroma.

Ingredients:

• 4 catfish fillets
• 3 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 yellow squash, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Dutch oven over medium heat. Rub the catfish fillets generously with Cajun seasoning on both sides.
2. Melt butter in the Dutch oven, and sear the fillets for 3-4 minutes on each side until blackened and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. Add olive oil to the Dutch oven and toss in the sliced vegetables. Season with salt and pepper, cooking until tender, about 7-8 minutes.
4. Serve the catfish alongside the vegetables, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Cajun Blackened Catfish delivers a smoky kick that pairs wonderfully with the freshness of roasted vegetables. The Dutch oven ensures an even char on the fish while keeping it moist and tender, making this dish a delight for spice lovers.

Garlicky Butter Poached Halibut

For a luxurious and decadent meal, this Garlicky Butter Poached Halibut is an excellent choice. The gentle poaching method in a Dutch oven keeps the fish delicate and moist while infusing it with buttery, garlicky goodness.

Ingredients:

• 4 halibut fillets
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup chicken or fish stock
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

1. Heat the Dutch oven over low heat and melt the butter. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Pour in the chicken stock and white wine, stirring gently. Add thyme leaves and bring to a gentle simmer.
3. Place the halibut fillets in the poaching liquid. Cover and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily.
4. Carefully remove the fillets and place on a serving platter. Spoon some of the poaching liquid over the fish.
5. Serve immediately with lemon wedges and your choice of sides, such as mashed potatoes or sautéed greens.

Garlicky Butter Poached Halibut is the epitome of elegance and flavor. The Dutch oven ensures gentle, even cooking, preserving the fish’s delicate texture and rich taste. Perfect for a special dinner or a comforting weekend indulgence.

Mediterranean Citrus Trout

This dish combines the fresh, vibrant flavors of Mediterranean cuisine with the subtle sweetness of trout. Citrus, garlic, and olive oil create a bright, aromatic sauce, and the Dutch oven ensures the fish remains juicy and tender. A perfect choice for a light, elegant meal.

Ingredients:

• 4 trout fillets
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 orange, sliced
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Coat the bottom of the Dutch oven with olive oil.
2. Arrange orange and lemon slices on the bottom of the Dutch oven, reserving a few for garnish. Place the trout fillets on top.
3. Sprinkle garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper evenly over the fish. Drizzle with a little more olive oil.
4. Cover the Dutch oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the trout flakes easily with a fork.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley and reserved citrus slices. Serve with a side of quinoa or roasted vegetables.

Mediterranean Citrus Trout is a fresh and vibrant dish that’s both light and satisfying. The Dutch oven locks in moisture and infuses the fish with the bright citrus and herb flavors, making every bite a burst of sunshine.

Moroccan-Spiced Tilapia with Chickpeas

This Moroccan-inspired dish pairs tender tilapia with a rich, spiced tomato and chickpea sauce. The Dutch oven’s even heat enhances the blend of spices, ensuring every bite is flavorful. It’s a warm, hearty meal perfect for any time of year.

Ingredients:

• 4 tilapia fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup cooked chickpeas
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in the Dutch oven over medium heat. Sauté the onion until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
2. Stir in the cumin, paprika, cinnamon, and turmeric, cooking for another minute to release the spices’ aroma.
3. Add the diced tomatoes and chickpeas. Simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Nestle the tilapia fillets into the sauce. Cover the Dutch oven and simmer on low heat for 10-12 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with couscous or flatbread.

Moroccan-Spiced Tilapia with Chickpeas is a beautifully spiced and hearty dish that brings the flavors of North Africa to your table. The Dutch oven’s slow, even cooking elevates the spices, making this meal an unforgettable treat.

Italian Cioppino with Mixed Fish

This Italian-inspired seafood stew is a medley of fish and shellfish simmered in a rich tomato and white wine broth. Perfectly cooked in a Dutch oven, this hearty dish is brimming with bold flavors and is ideal for a crowd-pleasing dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb firm white fish fillets (such as cod or haddock), cut into chunks
• 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 lb mussels or clams, cleaned
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 2 cups fish or chicken stock
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in the Dutch oven over medium heat. Sauté the onion until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
2. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, white wine, stock, red pepper flakes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
3. Add the fish chunks and shellfish to the pot, ensuring they are mostly submerged in the broth. Cover and simmer for 8-10 minutes, or until the fish is cooked and the shellfish have opened. Discard any unopened shellfish.
4. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve with crusty bread for dipping.

Italian Cioppino with Mixed Fish is a rustic and flavorful dish that feels like a celebration in every bowl. The Dutch oven’s even cooking creates a perfect balance of textures and tastes, making it an ideal centerpiece for gatherings or special occasions.

Teriyaki Glazed Salmon with Vegetables

This sweet and savory Teriyaki Glazed Salmon is paired with tender, caramelized vegetables for a well-rounded meal. Using a Dutch oven allows the glaze to infuse deeply into the fish while the vegetables cook to perfection, creating a dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.

Ingredients:

• 4 salmon fillets
• 1/3 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic to make the teriyaki glaze. Set aside.
2. Heat vegetable oil in the Dutch oven over medium heat. Add bell pepper, zucchini, and broccoli, cooking for 5-7 minutes until tender. Remove the vegetables and set aside.
3. Add the salmon fillets to the Dutch oven, skin-side down. Pour the teriyaki glaze over the fillets.
4. Cover and cook on low heat for 8-10 minutes, basting occasionally with the glaze, until the salmon is cooked through.
5. Return the vegetables to the Dutch oven, toss gently to coat with the glaze, and serve warm over steamed rice.

Teriyaki Glazed Salmon with Vegetables is a harmonious combination of sweet, savory, and fresh flavors. The Dutch oven ensures even cooking and a rich glaze, making this dish a family favorite that’s quick enough for weeknights.

Provencal Cod Stew

Inspired by the flavors of Provence, this aromatic stew combines cod with tomatoes, olives, and fresh herbs for a rustic yet elegant dish. Cooking it in a Dutch oven helps meld the flavors beautifully, making it a comforting, Mediterranean-style meal.

Ingredients:

• 4 cod fillets
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup white wine
• 1/4 cup black olives, pitted and sliced
• 2 teaspoons dried herbes de Provence
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in the Dutch oven over medium heat. Sauté the onion until soft, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
2. Stir in the diced tomatoes, white wine, olives, and herbes de Provence. Season with salt and pepper and bring to a gentle simmer.
3. Place the cod fillets into the stew, spooning some of the sauce over the top.
4. Cover the Dutch oven and simmer on low heat for 12-15 minutes, or until the cod is flaky and cooked through.
5. Garnish with fresh basil and serve with crusty bread or over rice.

Provencal Cod Stew is a dish full of rustic charm and vibrant flavors. The Dutch oven captures the essence of Mediterranean cooking, making this an ideal recipe for a cozy yet refined dinner.

Garlic Butter Snapper with Spinach

This recipe features tender snapper cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce, complemented by sautéed spinach. The Dutch oven ensures the fish stays moist and flavorful while creating a one-pot dish that’s simple yet indulgent.

Ingredients:

• 4 snapper fillets
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 6 cups fresh spinach
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in the Dutch oven over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Season the snapper fillets with salt and pepper. Add them to the Dutch oven and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. Add the remaining butter, lemon juice, and olive oil to the Dutch oven. Stir in the spinach, cooking until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Return the snapper fillets to the Dutch oven, spooning the garlic butter over the top. Serve immediately with rice or potatoes.

Garlic Butter Snapper with Spinach is a simple, elegant dish that’s packed with flavor and nutrition. The Dutch oven brings out the best in the buttery sauce and tender snapper, creating a meal that’s perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions.

Lemon Dill Fish Chowder

A creamy, comforting soup, this Lemon Dill Fish Chowder brings together the fresh flavors of lemon and dill with the heartiness of potatoes and tender fish. The Dutch oven allows for even cooking and enhances the creamy texture, making this a perfect dish for cooler weather.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb firm white fish (such as cod or haddock), cut into chunks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 4 cups fish or chicken stock
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• 2 teaspoons lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in the Dutch oven over medium heat. Sauté the onion until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
2. Add the diced potatoes and stock to the Dutch oven. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes, until the potatoes are tender.
3. Stir in the heavy cream, dill, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Add the fish chunks and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the fish is cooked through.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with extra dill and a slice of lemon.

Lemon Dill Fish Chowder is a rich and satisfying dish, combining the freshness of lemon and dill with the creamy texture of a comforting chowder. The Dutch oven helps meld the flavors together beautifully, creating a soul-warming meal.

Chipotle Lime Grilled Mahi Mahi

This smoky, zesty grilled Mahi Mahi gets a punch of flavor from chipotle and lime, creating a bold and spicy profile. The Dutch oven can be used for searing the fish and keeping it moist, resulting in a crisp exterior and a tender, juicy interior.

Ingredients:

• 4 Mahi Mahi fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 chipotle peppers in adobo, minced
• 1 tablespoon lime zest
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, chipotle peppers, lime zest, lime juice, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
2. Coat the Mahi Mahi fillets with the marinade and let them sit for 15-20 minutes.
3. Preheat your Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the fish fillets and sear for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Serve with a side of rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Chipotle Lime Grilled Mahi Mahi is a vibrant and flavorful dish that balances smoky, spicy, and citrusy notes. The Dutch oven helps achieve a perfect sear while keeping the fish moist, making it a quick yet impressive meal.

Baked Garlic Parmesan Trout

Simple yet elegant, this Baked Garlic Parmesan Trout features a rich garlic butter sauce with a crispy, cheesy topping. The Dutch oven ensures that the trout is perfectly baked, juicy on the inside with a crispy, golden crust.

Ingredients:

• 4 trout fillets
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix melted butter, garlic, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and parsley to form the topping.
3. Season the trout fillets with salt and pepper, then place them in the Dutch oven. Spoon the garlic Parmesan mixture generously over the top of each fillet.
4. Cover and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the trout flakes easily with a fork and the topping is golden brown.
5. Garnish with extra fresh parsley and serve with roasted potatoes or a green salad.

Baked Garlic Parmesan Trout is a straightforward yet indulgent dish. The Dutch oven ensures the trout cooks evenly while keeping the fish moist, while the crispy Parmesan topping adds a delightful texture to every bite. A perfect choice for both a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!