Whip up a restaurant-worthy meal in your own kitchen with this simple, flavorful, and healthy baked cod recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Today I’ll be sharing with you one of my ultimate family recipes: this super-easy baked cod. This one is amazing for those hectic weekdays when everyone’s on a different schedule and cries of “What’s for dinner?” start early. Not only is this recipe delicious, but it’s super easy to put together (and it looks pretty, too!). You’ve got cod fillet baked under a blanket of garlic, lemons, paprika, dill, complete with a generous drizzle of olive oil. It’s like a flavor party in one super-healthy dinner!
I must confess, though, I can’t take credit for this awesome meal — that honor goes to my grandma, who made this for us when we visited when I was a kid. One of her favorite sayings was, “A sprinkle of love is the best seasoning,” and I like to think of her saying it when I’m whipping it up for my own family.
If you love my other fish dishes like my Baked Salmon in Parchment Paper or my Chilean Sea Bass, you’re definitely gonna love this one. All these fish are kindred spirits — wholesome, soul-hugging, and surprisingly no fuss to pull off.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- This recipe is straightforward with easy-to-find ingredients.
- Cod is a relatively lean protein player, so it’s an ace for sticking to a heart-healthy eating plan.
- Even though it sounds basic, it’s jam-packed with amazing garlic, paprika, and lemon slice flavors.
- It’s totally flexible and can be tweaked up or down to suit everyone’s taste buds and dietary needs.
Ingredients
- 4 portions of cod
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1 tsp paprika
- 3 slices lemon
- 2 tsp dill
- salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make Baked Cod – The Steps
Step 1: Heat the oven to 400°F.
Step 2: Drizzle olive oil in an oven-safe dish. Add the fish in a single layer. Sprinkle on the garlic, paprika, dill, salt, and pepper, and add in the slices of lemon.
Step 3: Bake for 10 – 15 minutes.
Tips & Tricks
- You’ll want to pick out cod fillets that are thick. This will help the fish cook evenly.
- Cod is a fragile fish and can quickly go from juicy to parched if it’s overcooked, so keep an eye on it while it’s cooking. Once a fork can easily flake it, you’re ready to go.
- Be generous with the seasoning; let that salt and pepper rain down.
- If you have the choice, always opt for fresh garlic, lemon, and dill; the dried stuff just doesn’t compare.
- Go crazy and experiment! Sprinkle in some turmeric or switch up the dill for fresh parsley—the kitchen’s your playground (or should I say, fish tank?)!
FAQs
Yes, you can use frozen cod, but make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry with a paper towel before baking.
Absolutely! You can experiment with different spices like smoked paprika, cumin, or even a seafood seasoning blend.
Of course! I like omitting the dill and using fresh parsley or adding a dash of turmeric. Both make a delicious twist!
Baking at 400°F for 10-15 minutes usually yields perfectly cooked, moist and flaky cod.
Serving Suggestions
This delicious baked cod pairs wonderfully with roasted corn on the husk, or a crisp, fresh salad for a light dinner. If you’re in the mood for some carbs, try it with some roasted potatoes, a tortellini salad, some warm, crusty bread, or even a quinoa salad. Yum!
Variations
Mediterranean Twist: Add cherry tomatoes, olives, and substitute dill with fresh basil.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to give your cod a bit of a kick.
Creamy Delight: Add a drizzle of light cream and some grated Parmesan.
Citrus Twist: Swap out your lemon for lime and some fresh coriander.
Asian Inspiration: A favorite of mine, try mixing in some soy sauce, ginger, and a dash of honey.
How to Store Baked Cod
If you need to prepare the cod ahead of time, make it as usual, then store it in the fridge for no longer than 2 days. Pop it in the oven to warm up when you’re ready to eat. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat it gently in the oven at a lower temperature, around 275°F, just until warmed through to maintain its tender texture.
You can also freeze the cooked cod. Just let it cool then put it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It should keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Before you reheat it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight.
Easy Baked Cod Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 portions of cod
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic chopped
- 1 tsp paprika
- 3 slices lemon
- 2 tsp dill
- salt and pepper
Instructions
- Heat the oven to 400°F.
- Drizzle olive oil in an oven-safe dish. Add the fish in a single layer. Sprinkle on the garlic, paprika, dill, salt, and pepper, and add in the slices of lemon.
