Cod is a superstar in the world of cooking. Its mild flavor and flaky texture make it a perfect match for everything from fish tacos to comforting chowders. But when you’re ready to cook and find there’s no cod in sight, it can feel like a major snag in your dinner plans.
Don’t sweat it—there are plenty of substitutes that can step in and keep your recipes just as delicious. Whether you’re after a fish with a similar bite or something new to shake things up, we’ve got you covered.
From other white fish to surprising alternatives, these options make it easy to stay on track without missing the mark. Stick with us, and we’ll show you just how simple swapping cod can be.

7 Easy Substitutes for Cod Fish
The best cod fish substitutes should have a mild flavor, flaky texture, and be easy to find in your local grocery store. Here are some great options to consider:
Substitute | Taste | Texture | Ratio | Suitable Dish |
Tilapia | Mild | Flaky | 1:1 | Fish tacos, fish sticks |
Catfish | Mild | Firm | 1:1 | Fried catfish, catfish nuggets |
Haddock | Mild | Flaky | 1:1 | Fish and chips, fish sandwiches |
Pollock | Mild | Flaky | 1:1 | Fish sticks, fish cakes |
Halibut | Firm | Flaky | 1:1 | Grilled halibut, halibut burgers |
Snapper | Mild | Firm | 1:1 | Fish tacos, fish soups |
Mahi-Mahi | Rich | Firm | 1:1 | Grilled mahi-mahi, mahi-mahi burgers |
1 – Tilapia
First, let’s talk about tilapia!
Tilapia’s got that mild flavor and soft texture we love. It’s generally sweeter and less fishy than cod. Easy on the taste buds, right? Plus, it’s a bit lighter on the wallet, making it a budget-friendly choice.
And cooking it? A breeze because of its thinner fillets, which means a faster meal prep. Want more options?
Check out our article on best tilapia substitutes. Trust us, tilapia isn’t just a stand-in; it’s a star in its own right.
2 – Catfish
Catfish is a firm favorite here, pun intended. Its texture is robust, making it a versatile option for any meal. You’ll notice it’s less fishy and leans more toward an earthy flavor.
Switching from cod? Your wallet will thank you. Catfish is usually more budget-friendly than cod. You can cook it in various ways—frying, baking, or even grilling. It’s super adaptable.
Curious about more fish options? Check out catfish substitutes for ideas.
3 – Haddock
One of the best fish out there, Haddock is your go-to! Got a mild flavor and firm texture? Awesome! It’s pretty similar to cod in price, so your wallet won’t notice much difference.
Taste-wise, haddock is slightly sweeter and less fishy. Cooking it? Super versatile – fry, bake, you name it.
Easy to cook in a variety of ways, haddock fits into any recipe calling for cod. If you’re interested, look into haddock substitutes for more ideas. We tried it in our fish tacos, and wow, it didn’t disappoint.
4 – Pollock
Pollock? Now, here’s a contender worth talking about! This fish is known for its stronger flavor and firmer texture, making it a delightful choice for any meal.
Price-wise, pollock won’t break the bank. It’s generally cheaper than cod, which is always a win in our book. The flavor is more robust and fishy. We love its punchy taste in our fish tacos.
Cooking is a breeze. You can fry it, bake it, and more. It’s adaptable and easy. Pollock makes mealtime exciting and straightforward.
5 – Halibut
When we talk about fish with personality, Halibut stands out. This fish boasts a firm texture and strong flavor that makes any dish pop. Price-wise, it’s generally a bit more expensive than cod, but worth it for that buttery goodness.
Flavor-wise, it’s robust and subtly buttery. It’s hearty but not overpowering. Cooking it is simple, whether you fry, bake, or grill. It’s versatile and cooks up great every time.
Interested in other substitutes? Check out our detailed halibut substitutes guide for more info.
6 – Red Snapper
In terms of fish with flair, Snapper stands out. It has a firm texture and mild flavor that’s simply delightful. Compared to cod, Snapper is generally less expensive, making it a winner for our wallets.
Flavor? Snapper is less fishy and more delicate. Perfect for those who like a subtle taste. You can cook it by frying or baking – it’s incredibly versatile.
For more on substitutes, check out our red snapper substitutes. We’ve tried it, loved it, and recommend you give it a shot too!
7 – Mahi-Mahi
Our final pick: Mahi-Mahi. Got firm texture and strong flavor? Mahi-Mahi delivers. It’s a bit pricier than cod, but totally worth it for the taste.
Flavor-wise, it’s more robust and buttery. A real treat. We’ve fried it and baked it, and it turned out awesome every time.
Curious about more options? Check out our complete guide to mahi-mahi substitutes. It’s a handy resource for when you need alternatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, tilapia can replace cod in recipes, offering a mild flavor and flaky texture similar to cod.
Yes, catfish is a great substitute for cod, with a firm texture and slightly stronger flavor.
Haddock has a slightly flakier texture than cod but works similarly in most recipes like fish and chips or fish stews.
Yes, pollock is an excellent substitute for cod in fish tacos, providing a similar taste and texture when fried or grilled.
Yes, halibut is a great replacement for cod in a fish stew, offering a firmer texture and mild flavor.

Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.