Easy Baked Cod Recipe: Flaky Fish Magic in Minutes

Seafood enthusiasts will adore this simple baked cod that brings restaurant-quality flavors directly to your kitchen.

Crispy edges and tender flakes make this dish a weeknight winner.

Mediterranean-inspired seasonings dance across delicate fish, creating a memorable meal in minutes.

Minimal ingredients guarantee maximum satisfaction for anyone seeking a healthy protein option.

Lightweight and nutritious, this recipe proves cooking elegant dinners doesn’t require complicated techniques.

Fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon transform an ordinary piece of fish into something spectacular.

You’ll be amazed how quickly this delightful meal comes together with just a few smart moves.

Dive into this foolproof recipe and impress everyone at your table.

FAQs for Your Baked Cod Recipe

• Is cod a healthy fish to eat?

Cod is an excellent source of lean protein, low in calories, and packed with essential nutrients like vitamin B12, omega-3 fatty acids, and selenium, making it a heart-healthy seafood choice.

• How do I know if the cod is fully cooked?

The cod is done when it turns opaque white, flakes easily with a fork, and reaches an internal temperature of 145F. The fish should look moist and tender, not dry or rubbery.

• Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen cod. Thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight, then pat dry with paper towels before seasoning and baking to ensure the best texture and flavor.

• What can I do if I don't have smoked paprika?

If you’re missing smoked paprika, you can substitute with regular paprika, or use a mix of regular paprika and a pinch of cayenne pepper to add a similar depth of flavor to the dish.

Easy Baked Cod Recipe That’s Light Yet Satisfying

• The simple seasoning blend of smoked paprika, garlic, and lemon creates a restaurant-quality taste without complicated cooking techniques, ensuring even novice home cooks can achieve delicious results.
• Packed with lean protein and minimal ingredients, this baked cod offers a nutritious meal that supports wellness goals while delivering incredible taste and tender texture.
• Easily adaptable for different side dishes and occasions, from casual family dinners to elegant meal presentations, this recipe provides flexibility for various meal settings.

Ingredients for Simple Yet Elegant Baked Cod

• Cod Fillets: Delicate white fish with mild, sweet flavor, best when fresh and sustainably sourced.

• Olive Oil, Garlic, Smoked Paprika, Parsley, Onion Powder, Salt, Pepper: Aromatic mixture providing depth, warmth, and enhanced flavor profile for the fish.

• Lemon Zest, Lemon Juice, Lemon Wedges: Bright, tangy component that cuts through fish's richness and adds fresh, zesty brightness to the dish.

How to Bake Cod Without Drying It Out

Step 1: Prepare the Cooking Space

Warm up the oven to 400°F (200°C). Cover a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray lightly with cooking spray.

Step 2: Create Flavor Explosion

• Olive oil
• Minced garlic
• Smoked paprika
• Chopped parsley
• Onion powder
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Lemon zest
• Lemon juice

Step 3: Transform the Fish

Grab the cod fillets and gently pat them dry using paper towels. Arrange the fillets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Generously brush the tantalizing seasoning mixture over each fillet, ensuring complete coverage.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven. Roast for 12-15 minutes until the fish turns opaque and effortlessly flakes with a fork. Check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for optimal doneness.

Step 5: Elevate the Presentation

Pull the baking sheet from the oven. Drizzle additional fresh lemon juice over the fish. Sprinkle with extra chopped parsley. Serve alongside bright lemon wedges for an extra burst of citrusy goodness.

Tips for Flaky Fish with Plenty of Flavor

• Moisture-Lock Technique: Pat cod fillets completely dry before seasoning to ensure a crisp exterior and prevent steaming during baking.
• Customize Spice Levels: Adjust smoked paprika and pepper quantities to match your personal heat preference, creating a personalized flavor profile.
• Perfect Timing Trick: Check cod at 10 minutes to prevent overcooking; fish should be opaque and easily flake but remain tender and juicy.
• Gluten-Free Friendly: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it an excellent option for those with dietary restrictions or sensitivities.
• Lemon Zest Enhancement: Add fresh lemon zest to boost citrus notes and brighten the overall flavor of the baked cod without additional acidity.

Store and Reheat Baked Cod with Care

• Store leftover cod in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for up to 3 days to maintain optimal freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
• Warm cod gently in a preheated 275F oven for 8-10 minutes. Wrap the fish in aluminum foil to prevent drying out and preserve moisture.
• Reheat cod in short 30-second intervals, checking frequently to avoid overcooking. Drizzle a little water or lemon juice over the fish to help retain moisture and prevent toughness.
• Reheat cod only once to maintain its delicate texture and prevent potential food safety issues. Discard any remaining fish that has been repeatedly warmed.

What to Serve Alongside Baked Cod

• Select a crisp, unoaked Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio that complements the cod's delicate flavor and bright lemon notes, cutting through the fish's richness with refreshing acidity.
• Prepare a light herb-infused rice pilaf with parsley, dill, and lemon zest that echoes the recipe's seasoning profile and provides a complementary texture to the flaky cod.
• Create a simple Greek-style salad with cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, and feta cheese dressed in olive oil and lemon, which mirrors the recipe's Mediterranean ingredients and adds vibrant freshness to the meal.
• Roast asparagus or green beans with similar seasonings like garlic, lemon, and herbs to maintain continuity in flavor and provide a nutritious vegetable accompaniment that enhances the cod's delicate taste.

Cod Variations for Every Seafood Mood

• Mediterranean Herb Cod: Replace smoked paprika with dried oregano, thyme, and basil for a classic Mediterranean flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free Crispy Cod: Coat cod with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs for a crispy texture that's safe for gluten-sensitive individuals.
• Spicy Cajun Cod: Swap seasoning with Cajun spice blend, adding cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes for a bold, zesty kick.
• Low-Sodium Herb Cod: Use fresh herbs like dill and chives instead of salt, and replace onion powder with fresh minced shallots to reduce sodium content.

Easy Baked Cod Recipe

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4.9 from 39 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Succulent Mediterranean-style Cod Delight brings ocean-fresh flavors to your dinner table with minimal effort. Crisp herbed breadcrumbs and zesty lemon perfectly complement this simple, elegant seafood classic you can master in under 30 minutes.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Primary Proteins:

• 4 cod fillets (about 1.5 pounds / 680 grams)

Seasonings and Spices:

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped)
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Cooking and Flavor Enhancers:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon (zest and juice)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

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Instructions

1. Warm the culinary workspace by heating the oven to a toasty 400F (200C). Create a welcoming surface for the cod by layering a baking sheet with parchment paper or applying a delicate coating of cooking spray.
2. Craft a vibrant flavor profile by whisking together olive oil, aromatic garlic, smoky paprika, verdant parsley, pungent onion powder, mineral salt, and ground pepper. Elevate the mixture with bright lemon zest and a splash of citrus juice.
3. Meticulously dry the cod fillets using absorbent paper towels, ensuring a pristine surface for seasoning. Carefully arrange the fillets in a single, elegant layer across the prepared baking surface.
4. Generously brush the prepared seasoning mixture across each fillet, ensuring complete and even coverage that promises a burst of flavor in every bite.
5. Slide the adorned fish into the preheated oven, allowing it to transform for 12-15 minutes. Monitor the cod’s metamorphosis, watching for a translucent appearance and the ability to gently separate with a fork.
6. Verify the fish has reached its culinary peak by confirming an internal temperature of 145F (63C), guaranteeing both safety and optimal texture.
7. Extract the perfectly cooked fillets from the oven, adding a final flourish of fresh lemon juice. Scatter vibrant parsley across the top and present with additional lemon wedges for a citrusy complement.

Notes

• Ensure cod fillets are completely dry before seasoning to achieve a crispy, golden exterior and prevent steaming.
• Experiment with different herbs like dill or thyme to customize the flavor profile and match personal taste preferences.
• For a gluten-free and low-carb option, this recipe naturally fits dietary restrictions without modifications.
• Use fresh lemon juice and zest for a brighter, more vibrant citrus flavor that enhances the delicate fish.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 230
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 27g
• Cholesterol: 70mg