Cod has a mild flavor and flaky texture that works beautifully with simple seasonings, butter, and lemon. The fish bakes in just a few minutes, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights while still being elegant enough for a special meal.
Main Essence of This Dish
The beauty of baked cod lies in its simplicity. Fresh cod fillets are seasoned with a blend of garlic, paprika, herbs, and black pepper, then finished with melted butter and lemon juice. As the fish bakes, it becomes tender, moist, and flaky while absorbing the bright citrus and savory flavors. The result is a healthy and comforting seafood dish that pairs well with vegetables, rice, potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Recipe Information
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 5 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 10 minutes |
| Total Time | 15 minutes |
| Servings | 6 |
| Difficulty Level | Easy |
Ingredients
- 6 cod fillets (about 4 ounces each)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley or Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
- Lemon wedges for serving
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Also Read: Chicken Taco Soup Recipe
How to Make Baked Cod
Step 1: Prepare the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Dry the Fish
Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps the seasonings stick and allows the fish to bake evenly.
Step 3: Mix the Seasonings
In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, parsley, and onion powder. Mix until evenly blended.
Step 4: Season the Cod
Arrange the cod fillets in the prepared baking dish. Brush each fillet with melted butter and drizzle with fresh lemon juice. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over the fish.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The fish is ready when it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. An internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) indicates it is fully cooked.
Step 6: Serve
Remove the cod from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately with lemon wedges and your favorite side dishes.
Tips for the Best Baked Cod
- Use cod fillets that are similar in thickness for even cooking.
- Fresh lemon juice provides the brightest flavor.
- Do not overcook the fish, as cod can dry out quickly.
- Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra richness.
- Panko breadcrumbs can be added before baking for a light crispy topping.
Serving Suggestions
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Roasted asparagus
- Steamed green beans
- Rice pilaf
- Garden salad
- Lemon herb quinoa
Also Read: Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Recipe
Nutritional Information
The following values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredients used.
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 130 kcal |
| Protein | 20 g |
| Carbohydrates | 1 g |
| Fat | 5 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Cholesterol | 59 mg |
| Sodium | 286 mg |
| Potassium | 487 mg |
| Fiber | 0.2 g |
| Sugar | 0.1 g |
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Storage and Reheating
Store leftover baked cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a low-temperature oven or microwave until warmed through. Avoid overheating to maintain the fish’s tender texture.
