Simple Flaky Baked Cod Recipe: Dinner in a Snap

Seafood enthusiasts rejoice with this simple baked cod recipe that brings restaurant-quality flavor right to your dinner table.

Delicate white fish meets a perfect blend of seasonings in this effortless meal.

The cod transforms from bland to brilliant with just a few pantry staples and minimal prep work.

Each tender, flaky bite promises a delightful culinary experience that feels both light and satisfying.

Fresh herbs and a zesty lemon squeeze elevate this protein-packed dish from ordinary to extraordinary.

This quick and nutritious meal comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

You’ll love how elegantly this recipe turns a humble piece of fish into a show-stopping main course that will have everyone asking for seconds.

What’s Inside Easy Baked Cod Recipe

• Cod Fillets: Fresh, flaky white fish that absorbs seasonings beautifully; choose wild-caught for superior flavor and sustainability; look for firm, translucent fillets without strong fishy odor.

• Olive Oil, Lemon Juice: Creates moisture and carries flavors deeply into the fish; select extra virgin olive oil for robust taste; use fresh lemon for brightest citrus notes.
• Garlic, Onion Powder: Adds aromatic depth and savory undertones; opt for high-quality, fresh garlic for maximum flavor impact.
• Smoked Paprika: Introduces subtle smoky warmth and vibrant color; choose Spanish varieties for most authentic taste profile.
• Parsley: Brings fresh, herbaceous brightness; select crisp, vivid green leaves for maximum flavor and visual appeal.

• Salt, Black Pepper: Enhances overall seasoning and balances flavor complexity; use freshly ground black pepper for most intense taste.
• Lemon Wedges: Provides zesty, bright garnish that complements fish's delicate texture; choose firm, heavy lemons for maximum juice.

Equipment For Easy Baked Cod Recipe

• Baking Sheet or Dish: Essential for cooking and containing the cod fillets during baking.
• Parchment Paper or Cooking Spray: Prevents fish from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
• Small Bowl: Perfect for mixing seasoning ingredients thoroughly.
• Paper Towels: Helps dry cod fillets to ensure proper seasoning and crispy texture.
• Fork: Used to check fish doneness by testing if it flakes easily.
• Measuring Spoons: Precise for measuring seasoning ingredients.
• Pastry Brush: Helps evenly spread seasoning mixture over cod fillets.
• Grater or Microplane: Needed for zesting lemon.
• Knife: Required for cutting lemon wedges and chopping fresh parsley.

Simple Instructions For Easy Baked Cod Recipe

• Oven Preparation

Warm up the oven to a toasty 400F. Get a baking sheet ready by covering it with parchment paper or giving it a light spray of cooking oil.

• Flavor Fusion

Create a mouthwatering blend of olive oil, garlic, smoky paprika, fresh herbs, and zesty lemon. Mix these ingredients to form a tantalizing coating that will make the fish sing with flavor.

• Fish Transformation

Gently dry the cod fillets, ensuring they’re free from excess moisture. Lovingly spread the aromatic mixture across each piece, making sure every inch is kissed with the delicious seasoning.

• Cooking Magic

Slide the prepared fish into the heated oven. Let it bake until the cod turns beautifully opaque and breaks apart with the gentlest touch of a fork. The fish should reach a perfect internal temperature that guarantees both safety and incredible taste.

• Final Flourish

Pull the fish from the oven and give it a final splash of bright lemon juice. Sprinkle some fresh herbs on top for a burst of color and extra flavor. Serve immediately and watch everyone’s eyes light up with delight.

Helpful Tips For Easy Baked Cod Recipe

• Pro Seasoning Tip: Marinate the cod fillets in the seasoning mixture for 15-30 minutes before baking to enhance flavor absorption and create a more intense taste profile.
• Low-Carb Friendly: This recipe is naturally low-carb and keto-compatible, making it perfect for people following strict dietary restrictions without compromising on delicious taste.
• Dairy-Free Delight: The recipe is completely dairy-free, allowing individuals with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies to enjoy a flavorful fish dish without modifications.
• Gluten-Free Option: Cod is naturally gluten-free, and all ingredients used in this recipe do not contain gluten, making it safe for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities.
• Protein Powerhouse Variation: For added protein, top the cod with sliced almonds or crushed macadamia nuts before baking to create a crunchy, nutritious crust that elevates the dish's texture and nutritional value.

Serving Up Easy Baked Cod Recipe

• Zesty Seafood Companion: Pair the baked cod with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc to enhance the delicate fish flavors and complement the citrusy notes.
• Vibrant Side Plate: Serve alongside roasted asparagus or a light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, which adds color and nutritional balance to the meal.
• Mediterranean-Inspired Plating: Arrange the cod on a bed of herbed couscous or rice pilaf, drizzling extra olive oil and scattering fresh chopped herbs for an elevated dining experience.
• Quick Flavor Boost: Top the baked cod with a quick homemade salsa or fresh pico de gallo to add brightness and a tangy kick that brings out the fish's natural sweetness.

Storage Guide For Easy Baked Cod Recipe

• Quick Refrigeration Strategy: Store leftover cod in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping it in the coldest part of the refrigerator for maximum freshness and safety.
• Smart Shelf Life Planning: Consume refrigerated cod within 1-2 days to maintain optimal taste and texture, ensuring the fish remains delicious and safe for eating.
• Freezing Technique: Wrap individual cod fillets tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag, removing excess air to prevent freezer burn. Frozen cod maintains quality for up to 3 months.
• Reheating Method: Gently warm leftover cod in the oven at 275F for 10-15 minutes, adding a splash of lemon juice to prevent drying and restore moisture, keeping the fish tender and flavorful.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Calories: 210 kcal

Servings: 3

Crispy Baked Cod Recipe

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• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 3 1x

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Description

Mediterranean-style baked cod delights seafood enthusiasts with its simple preparation and bold flavors. Fresh herbs, lemon, and olive oil create a light, aromatic dish that brings coastal Greece directly to your dinner table.

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Ingredients

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• 4 cod fillets (about 1 ½ lbs or 680 g)
• 2 tbsps olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp dried parsley (or 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped)
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 lemon (zest and juice)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

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Instructions

1. Preparation: Ignite the oven to a precise 400F, creating an ideal thermal environment for transforming cod fillets into a culinary masterpiece.
2. Flavor Fusion: Craft a harmonious seasoning by whisking olive oil with garlic, paprika, parsley, onion powder, salt, and pepper, incorporating lemon zest and citrus juice to elevate the fish’s inherent taste.
3. Fish Preparation: Thoroughly desiccate cod fillets with paper towels, eliminating moisture to guarantee a golden, crisp exterior during the baking process.
4. Seasoning Application: Position fillets in a single layer within a baking dish, lavishly coating each piece with the prepared aromatic mixture, ensuring comprehensive flavor infusion.
5. Culinary Transformation: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, monitoring the fish’s metamorphosis into an opaque, delicately flaky delicacy that gracefully separates under minimal fork pressure.
6. Final Touches: Confirm the cod has reached a food-safe 145F internal temperature, then extract from the oven, embellish with a citrus splash, sprinkle fresh parsley, and present alongside bright lemon wedges for a sophisticated gastronomic experience.

Notes

• Moisture Removal Matters: Thoroughly pat cod fillets dry to prevent steaming and achieve a crispy, golden exterior that locks in delicious flavors.
• Temperature Precision: Use a reliable meat thermometer to confirm the 145F internal temperature, ensuring perfectly cooked fish without overcooking or undercooking.
• Spacing Strategy: Arrange fillets in a single layer with adequate space between pieces to promote even heat circulation and prevent soggy, unevenly cooked fish.
• Versatile Seasoning Hack: Adjust the spice blend to accommodate dietary preferences by swapping herbs or using low-sodium alternatives without compromising the dish’s vibrant flavor profile.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 3
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 0 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 4 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 23 g
• Cholesterol: 60 mg