50+ Hearty Winter Fish Recipes for Cold Nights

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winter fish recipes

As the temperature drops and winter settles in, the craving for hearty, comforting meals becomes stronger.

While many people associate winter dishes with stews, roasts, and casseroles, fish can be an incredibly versatile and satisfying ingredient for the colder months.

Whether you’re looking for a light, healthy meal or something more decadent to warm you up, fish offers the perfect base for a wide range of winter recipes.

From rich chowders to crispy seared fillets, winter fish dishes can be comforting, nourishing, and packed with seasonal flavors.

This collection of 50+ winter fish recipes will inspire you to incorporate more seafood into your cold-weather menu, offering everything from quick weeknight dinners to indulgent weekend feasts.

Winter is also a time to explore bold flavors, like spicy paprika, warm cumin, zesty lemon, and rich garlic butter, all of which pair beautifully with the natural mildness of fish.

Whether you prefer salmon, cod, tilapia, or shrimp, these recipes are designed to bring out the best of the season, highlighting the warmth and heartiness that we crave in the colder months.

Get ready to dive into these delightful winter fish recipes that are perfect for cozy nights by the fire or festive family gatherings.

50+ Hearty Winter Fish Recipes for Cold Nights

Winter is the perfect time to explore new ways to enjoy fish, whether you’re in the mood for light, healthy meals or something rich and indulgent.

These 50+ winter fish recipes show that seafood can be just as warming and satisfying as any traditional winter fare.

With a variety of dishes ranging from simple baked fish to hearty chowders, these recipes are sure to become new favorites in your winter cooking repertoire.

Plus, with the abundance of seasonal flavors like garlic, lemon, fennel, and herbs, each recipe will bring a bright, fresh twist to your winter menu.

So, as the snow falls and the nights grow longer, you can turn to these fish recipes to create meals that are both comforting and nutritious.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a festive gathering, these dishes will make winter dining a true delight.

Baked Lemon Herb Cod

This light yet hearty baked cod dish brings a zesty warmth to cold winter nights. The delicate fish is complemented by a blend of fresh herbs, garlic, and lemon, creating a bright, flavorful meal that’s perfect for when you’re craving something healthy but still satisfying.

Ingredients:

  • 4 cod fillets
  • 2 lemons (sliced)
  • 3 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp dried parsley
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with olive oil.
  3. Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and place them on the baking sheet.
  4. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, thyme, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  5. Brush the cod fillets with the olive oil mixture on both sides.
  6. Arrange lemon slices on top and around the fillets.
  7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
  8. Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with your choice of sides, such as roasted vegetables or a warm quinoa salad.

This baked lemon herb cod offers a simple yet elegant way to enjoy a healthy dinner during the colder months. The brightness of the lemon balances perfectly with the warmth of the herbs, making this dish both refreshing and comforting.

Creamy Winter Salmon Stew

A comforting bowl of creamy salmon stew is just what you need to warm up on a chilly winter day. This rich, flavorful stew is packed with tender salmon, hearty vegetables, and a creamy broth that feels indulgent yet wholesome. Serve it with crusty bread to soak up every last drop.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb salmon fillets (skin removed, cut into chunks)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion (chopped)
  • 2 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 2 carrots (sliced)
  • 2 potatoes (cubed)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 4 cups fish or vegetable broth
  • 1 tsp dried dill
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh dill for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté until softened (about 3 minutes).
  2. Add carrots and potatoes, stirring occasionally for another 5 minutes.
  3. Pour in the broth, add the bay leaf, and bring to a simmer.
  4. Cook for 15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
  5. Stir in the cream, salmon chunks, dill, salt, and pepper.
  6. Simmer gently for another 10 minutes, until the salmon is cooked through.
  7. Remove the bay leaf, garnish with fresh dill, and serve hot with a side of bread or crackers.

This creamy salmon stew is the ultimate winter comfort food, offering a nourishing and satisfying meal. The richness of the cream pairs beautifully with the tender salmon, while the hearty vegetables add texture and warmth to each spoonful.

Pan-Seared Winter Flounder with Garlic Butter Sauce

Pan-seared flounder in a rich garlic butter sauce is an easy yet elegant dish perfect for winter evenings. This recipe features flounder’s mild flavor, enhanced with a luscious sauce that includes garlic, butter, lemon, and parsley. Serve it with mashed potatoes or steamed greens for a complete meal.

Ingredients:

  • 4 flounder fillets
  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 3 garlic cloves (minced)
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Season the flounder fillets with salt and pepper on both sides.
  3. Add the flounder to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, add the butter and garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Pour in the lemon juice and stir well, allowing the sauce to simmer for another 1-2 minutes.
  6. Return the flounder to the skillet, spooning the garlic butter sauce over the fish.
  7. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Pan-seared winter flounder with garlic butter sauce is a quick, flavorful meal that feels like a restaurant-quality dish. The buttery, garlicky sauce brings out the flounder’s delicate texture, creating a satisfying and warming dish for cold winter evenings.

Spicy Cajun Winter Catfish

This spicy Cajun catfish recipe is perfect for cold winter nights when you’re craving bold, warming flavors. The catfish is coated in a blend of Cajun spices and pan-fried to perfection, creating a crispy crust that pairs beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables or rice.

Ingredients:

  • 4 catfish fillets
  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Lemon wedges for serving
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a small bowl, mix the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme.
  2. Pat the catfish fillets dry and rub the spice mixture generously onto both sides.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  4. Place the catfish in the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until the fish is cooked through and has a crispy, golden crust.
  5. Remove from the skillet and serve with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

This Cajun catfish packs a punch of flavor that will warm you up on the chilliest of nights. The spice blend brings heat and depth, while the crispy texture contrasts beautifully with the tender fish. Pair it with your favorite winter sides to make a hearty meal.

Miso-Glazed Winter Halibut

Miso-glazed halibut is a savory, umami-rich dish that brings a Japanese twist to winter seafood meals. The sweet and salty miso glaze caramelizes as the fish cooks, creating a rich, flavorful coating. It’s an elegant yet simple recipe that pairs wonderfully with rice and sautéed greens.

Ingredients:

  • 4 halibut fillets
  • 3 tbsp white miso paste
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 2 tsp sesame oil
  • 1 tsp grated ginger
  • Sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the miso paste, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, and grated ginger.
  3. Place the halibut fillets on the baking sheet and brush the miso glaze generously over each fillet.
  4. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the glaze is caramelized.
  5. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving.

Miso-glazed halibut brings an incredible depth of flavor with minimal effort. The miso adds a warm, comforting richness to the dish, while the halibut remains tender and moist. It’s a great choice for an elevated winter dinner that feels indulgent yet healthy.

Tuscan Winter Fish Stew (Cacciucco)

Tuscan fish stew, or “Cacciucco,” is a rich, hearty seafood stew that’s perfect for winter. Packed with tender white fish, shrimp, and mussels, this tomato-based stew is full of bold Mediterranean flavors. Serve it with crusty bread to soak up the savory broth.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb white fish fillets (such as cod or haddock), cut into chunks
  • ½ lb shrimp (peeled and deveined)
  • ½ lb mussels (cleaned)
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion (chopped)
  • 4 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 1 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 1 cup dry white wine
  • 4 cups fish or vegetable broth
  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened.
  2. Add the red pepper flakes, tomato paste, and crushed tomatoes, stirring to combine.
  3. Pour in the white wine and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for 5 minutes to reduce the wine slightly.
  4. Add the broth, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 15 minutes.
  5. Add the white fish chunks and shrimp, cooking for 5 minutes until they begin to turn opaque.
  6. Add the mussels, cover the pot, and cook for another 5 minutes until the mussels open.
  7. Remove from heat, discard any unopened mussels, and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with crusty bread.

This Tuscan fish stew is the ultimate winter comfort food, combining the hearty richness of seafood with a warming tomato broth. Each spoonful bursts with Mediterranean flavors, making it a luxurious yet simple dish to enjoy on cold nights.

Herb-Crusted Winter Haddock

This herb-crusted haddock dish is an easy way to enjoy a light yet flavorful meal during the colder months. The crispy herb and breadcrumb coating locks in moisture while adding texture, making the tender fish inside melt in your mouth. This dish pairs beautifully with roasted winter vegetables or a side of creamy mashed potatoes.

Ingredients:

  • 4 haddock fillets
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
  • 2 tbsp fresh dill (chopped)
  • 2 garlic cloves (minced)
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, combine breadcrumbs, parsley, dill, garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Add olive oil and mix until the crumbs are coated.
  3. Pat the haddock fillets dry and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
  4. Press the herb-breadcrumb mixture onto the top of each fillet, covering them generously.
  5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily and the topping is golden brown.
  6. Serve with lemon wedges for a burst of freshness.

This herb-crusted haddock is a simple, elegant dish that’s perfect for a winter dinner. The herbs and lemon bring a refreshing lift, while the crispy breadcrumbs add texture to the delicate fish. It’s a satisfying and wholesome meal for cozy evenings.

Chili Lime Grilled Mackerel

Mackerel is a rich, oily fish that shines when paired with bold flavors like chili and lime. This grilled mackerel recipe delivers a perfect balance of spiciness and tanginess, creating a warming dish that’s ideal for winter nights. Serve with a light salad or warm grains like couscous or quinoa.

Ingredients:

  • 4 mackerel fillets
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 garlic clove (minced)
  • Zest and juice of 1 lime
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, chili powder, paprika, garlic, lime zest, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
  2. Rub the mixture onto the mackerel fillets, coating both sides.
  3. Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates.
  4. Grill the mackerel fillets for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the fish is cooked through and slightly charred.
  5. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges.

Chili lime grilled mackerel offers a burst of bold, zesty flavors that will warm you from the inside out. The spicy chili and bright lime perfectly complement the richness of the mackerel, making this a hearty yet refreshing dish for cold winter evenings.

Winter Baked Trout with Almonds and Brown Butter

This baked trout recipe is a winter delight, featuring tender, flaky fish topped with nutty, rich brown butter and crunchy almonds. The brown butter sauce adds warmth and depth, while the almonds bring a pleasant crunch. It’s an elegant dish that’s surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

  • 4 trout fillets
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • ½ cup sliced almonds
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
  2. Place the trout fillets in the dish and season with salt and pepper.
  3. In a small skillet, melt the butter over medium heat, stirring frequently. Continue cooking until the butter turns golden brown and smells nutty (about 3-4 minutes).
  4. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the almonds, lemon juice, and parsley.
  5. Pour the almond-brown butter sauce over the trout fillets.
  6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
  7. Serve with lemon wedges for extra brightness.

Baked trout with almonds and brown butter is a luxurious winter meal, offering a blend of nutty, buttery richness with the lightness of the trout. The crunchy almonds and golden sauce elevate the dish, making it both comforting and special. Pair it with roasted root vegetables or sautéed spinach for a balanced, delicious meal.

Roasted Cod with Fennel and Orange

Roasted cod with fennel and orange is a refreshing yet cozy winter dish, combining the lightness of cod with the earthy flavor of roasted fennel and the citrusy brightness of orange. This simple recipe brings out a wonderful balance of savory and sweet, making it an elegant yet effortless option for a winter dinner.

Ingredients:

  • 4 cod fillets
  • 2 fennel bulbs, thinly sliced
  • 1 orange, thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • Zest of 1 orange
  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the sliced fennel and orange on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
  2. Roast the fennel and orange for 15 minutes, stirring halfway through.
  3. Place the cod fillets on top of the fennel mixture, sprinkle with orange zest, and season with salt and pepper.
  4. Continue roasting for another 10-12 minutes, or until the cod is flaky and cooked through.
  5. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

This roasted cod with fennel and orange is perfect for when you want a light, aromatic meal during the winter months. The sweetness from the orange complements the mild cod, while the roasted fennel adds depth and warmth. It’s a dish that feels both bright and hearty, ideal for a cozy evening at home.

Crispy Baked Salmon with Mustard and Maple

This crispy baked salmon recipe brings together the sweetness of maple syrup and the tanginess of mustard, creating a flavorful glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. The crispy skin adds texture, while the glaze keeps the fish moist and flavorful. It’s an easy yet satisfying meal for winter nights.

Ingredients:

  • 4 salmon fillets (skin-on)
  • 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 2 tbsp whole grain mustard
  • 2 tbsp maple syrup
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh dill for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a small bowl, mix the Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, maple syrup, garlic powder, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  3. Place the salmon fillets, skin-side down, on the prepared baking sheet.
  4. Brush the mustard-maple mixture generously over the top of the fillets.
  5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and the top is caramelized and crispy.
  6. Garnish with fresh dill and serve.

Crispy baked salmon with mustard and maple is a delightful blend of sweet and tangy flavors, perfect for a comforting winter meal. The glaze caramelizes, giving the salmon a rich, bold flavor, while the skin crisps up nicely. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that can be paired with roasted vegetables or a warm grain salad for a complete winter meal.

Hearty Winter Fish Chowder

A hearty fish chowder is the ultimate winter comfort food, packed with chunks of white fish, potatoes, and smoky bacon in a creamy broth. This recipe is filling, rich, and flavorful, perfect for warming up on a cold winter evening. Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb white fish fillets (such as cod or haddock), cut into chunks
  • 4 slices bacon, chopped
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 3 cups fish or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh chives for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
  2. Add the diced onion and garlic to the pot and sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
  3. Add the potatoes, broth, smoked paprika, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
  4. Stir in the heavy cream and fish chunks. Simmer for another 5-7 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flaky.
  5. Remove the bay leaf, stir in the cooked bacon, and garnish with fresh chives before serving.

This hearty winter fish chowder is the perfect dish for a cold evening, with its rich, creamy broth and tender chunks of fish. The smoky bacon adds depth, while the potatoes make the soup thick and satisfying. Pair it with crusty bread for a comforting and filling winter meal.

Lemon Butter Seared Scallops

This lemon butter seared scallops dish offers a burst of bright citrus flavor paired with the rich, buttery goodness of perfectly seared scallops. Scallops cook quickly, making this a speedy yet luxurious meal for winter nights when you want something indulgent but easy to prepare. Pair it with roasted vegetables or a light salad for a full meal.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb large sea scallops
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

  1. Pat the scallops dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat the olive oil and 2 tbsp of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Add the scallops to the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Sear for 2-3 minutes on each side, until a golden crust forms. Remove the scallops from the skillet and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Stir in the lemon juice and zest, and return the scallops to the pan, spooning the sauce over them.
  6. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

These lemon butter seared scallops are a perfect combination of rich and fresh flavors. The zesty lemon cuts through the butter’s richness, while the scallops remain tender with a perfect golden sear. This dish is both comforting and elegant, ideal for a cozy winter night in.

Spiced Baked Tilapia with Sweet Potatoes

This spiced baked tilapia recipe brings warm, earthy spices together with tender fish and sweet potatoes, creating a cozy, one-pan winter meal. The spices add depth and warmth, making it a flavorful yet light dish. It’s perfect for when you want something wholesome and satisfying without spending too much time in the kitchen.

Ingredients:

  • 4 tilapia fillets
  • 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, toss the cubed sweet potatoes with 1 tbsp olive oil, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, garlic, salt, and pepper.
  3. Spread the sweet potatoes on the baking sheet and roast for 15 minutes.
  4. Meanwhile, rub the tilapia fillets with the remaining olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of cumin.
  5. After the sweet potatoes have roasted for 15 minutes, add the tilapia fillets to the baking sheet and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through.
  6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve.

This spiced baked tilapia with sweet potatoes is the perfect winter meal, combining the earthy flavors of the spices with the sweetness of the potatoes. The dish is warming, hearty, and balanced, providing comfort without being too heavy. It’s a simple yet flavorful dinner option for the colder months.

Garlic Butter Shrimp with Spinach and White Beans

Garlic butter shrimp with spinach and white beans is a hearty yet healthy winter meal. The shrimp are cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce, while the spinach and white beans add texture and substance, making it both nutritious and delicious. This dish is ideal for a quick weeknight meal or a light yet satisfying dinner.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
  • 4 cups fresh spinach
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

  1. Heat the olive oil and 2 tbsp of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until pink and opaque. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Stir in the white beans and spinach, cooking until the spinach is wilted and the beans are warmed through.
  5. Add the shrimp back into the skillet and toss everything together. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
  6. Serve with lemon wedges for extra brightness.

This garlic butter shrimp with spinach and white beans is a wonderfully balanced winter meal. The buttery shrimp combined with hearty beans and spinach make it both rich and nutritious. The flavors are simple yet comforting, making this dish a quick and satisfying dinner option for chilly evenings.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!

Karina Kari

A true culinary enthusiast hailing from the sunny state of California. Passionate, creative, and adventurous in the kitchen, she has carved a remarkable identity as a home chef and a food lover. She believes that cooking is not just about preparing food; it’s an art that allows her to express her creativity and love for her loved ones.