Baked Cod Recipe | Easy & Flavorful Dinner Idea

The aroma of baked cod wafts through the kitchen, promising a delightful experience that can make even the most skeptical fish lover swoon. This baked cod recipe is not just a meal; it’s an event, a celebration of flavors that dance on your taste buds and aromas that fill your home with warmth. Spinach Stuffed Pie for variety.

Picture this: It’s a cozy Friday evening, and you’re trying to impress your friends without drowning in dishes. The flaky, tender cod paired with herbs and zesty lemon is the perfect showstopper—easy to prepare yet sophisticated enough for any gathering. Herb Crusted Lamb for inspiration

I still remember the first time I served this dish; my friend took one bite and declared I should open a restaurant. Little did he know my culinary expertise began and ended with this one fabulous recipe!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Cod Fillets: Look for fresh or thawed fillets that are firm and free of discoloration for best results.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds brightness; bottled won’t cut it in this dish! Lemon Custard Cake dessert.
• Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances flavors while keeping the fish moist.
• Garlic Powder: Using garlic powder provides a subtle depth without overpowering the delicate taste of cod.
• Dried Herbs (Thyme or Oregano): These herbs add an aromatic touch; feel free to mix them up based on your preference.
• Paprika: A sprinkle of paprika gives a lovely color and a hint of smokiness—perfect for those Instagram moments!
• Salt and Pepper: Don’t forget these staples; they enhance all the other flavors beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish : Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s warming up, grab a baking dish and lightly grease it with nonstick spray or olive oil to prevent sticking. For more inspiration, check out this Easy Irish Soda Bread recipe.

Season Your Cod : Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to ensure they bake nicely. Place them in the baking dish and drizzle with olive oil before sprinkling salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and dried herbs evenly over the top.

Add Zesty Flavor : Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the seasoned fillets; if you really love lemon (who doesn’t?), toss some lemon slices right on top! This will keep everything moist while adding that bright flavor we adore.

Bake to Perfection : Slide your baking dish into the preheated oven and let it work its magic for about 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the fish flakes easily with a fork and looks gloriously golden.

Garnish and Serve : Once out of the oven, let your masterpiece rest for a minute. Garnish with fresh parsley if you’re feeling fancy (or just want to impress). Serve hot alongside veggies or rice for a complete meal!

There you have it—the most delightful baked cod recipe that’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table. Enjoy every flavorful bite! For more inspiration, check out this Flavorful Louisiana Shrimp and Sausage Gumbo recipe.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s warming up, prep your cod and seasonings to ensure everything cooks evenly and efficiently.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the herbs or add lemon zest for an extra zing. You can also replace cod with other firm white fish like haddock or halibut for variety.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover baked cod in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat it gently in the oven to maintain its flaky texture.

Baking cod always reminds me of that dinner party where my friend thought I was serving chicken! The shocked look on their face when they tasted this dish was priceless!

FAQ

Can I use frozen fish for this Baked Cod Recipe?

Yes, but thaw it completely before baking for even cooking.

What side dishes pair well with baked cod?

Light salads, roasted vegetables, or garlic mashed potatoes complement baked cod beautifully. Spring Vegetable Quiche pairing.

How do I know when my cod is done?

The fish should flake easily with a fork and be opaque throughout when fully cooked.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

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Baked Cod

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Baked cod is a mouthwatering dish that combines flaky, tender fish with zesty lemon and aromatic herbs. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy dinner at home. With a golden-brown crust and customizable seasonings, this baked cod will elevate your dining experience while filling your kitchen with delightful aromas.

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Ingredients

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• 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried thyme (or oregano)
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
2. Pat the cod fillets dry and place in the baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and dried herbs.
3. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the seasoned fillets and add lemon slices on top if desired.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
5. Allow to rest for a minute before garnishing with parsley and serving alongside your favorite sides.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Seafood

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cod fillet (170g)
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 0 g
• Sodium: 70 mg
• Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 4 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 32 g
• Cholesterol: 85 mg