Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This baked cod recipe is incredibly simple, yet packed with flavor. The combination of garlic, paprika, and lemon juice enhances the natural taste of the cod while keeping it moist and tender. Plus, it’s a great option for those looking for a healthy, low-carb meal. In just 15 minutes, you’ll have a delicious, flaky fish dish that pairs well with a variety of sides like steamed vegetables or a side salad.
Ingredients
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6 cod fillets (about 4 oz each)
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1 teaspoon garlic powder (or 2 teaspoons minced garlic)
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1 teaspoon paprika
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½ teaspoon salt
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¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
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½ teaspoon dried parsley or Italian seasoning
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¼ teaspoon onion powder
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2 tablespoons melted butter
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2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
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Lemon wedges for serving
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Preheat the oven to 400°F. Lightly grease a baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
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Pat the cod fillets dry with a paper towel to help the seasoning stick.
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In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, parsley, and onion powder.
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Brush the fillets with melted butter and drizzle with lemon juice. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over the fillets.
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Place the fillets in the prepared baking dish and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. Thin fillets may take as little as 5-6 minutes.
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Serve immediately with lemon wedges and fresh herbs like parsley.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 6
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Prep Time: 5 minutes
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Cook Time: 10 minutes
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Total Time: 15 minutes
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover baked cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the fillets in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes until heated through. For best results, avoid microwaving as it may cause the fish to become rubbery.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cod. Make sure to thaw it fully before baking to ensure even cooking.
2. Can I use olive oil instead of butter?
Yes, olive oil works as a substitute for butter if you’re looking for a dairy-free or lighter option.
3. How do I know when the cod is fully cooked?
Cod is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F, is opaque, and flakes easily with a fork.
4. Can I bake cod in foil?
Yes, wrapping cod in foil can help keep it moist and tender. Season and wrap the fillets in foil before baking.
5. What sides go well with baked cod?
This dish pairs well with vegetables like steamed broccoli, cauliflower rice, or a fresh salad.
6. Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute cod with other mild white fish like haddock or tilapia.
7. Can I add more spices to the seasoning mix?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other spices such as cayenne pepper, thyme, or paprika for a bit more heat or flavor.
8. How do I prevent the fish from being too dry?
Brushing the fillets with melted butter or olive oil helps lock in moisture and keeps the fish tender.
9. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
10. Can I freeze baked cod?
Yes, you can freeze cooked cod for up to 6 weeks. Make sure it cools down before storing in an airtight container or freezer bag.
Conclusion
This baked cod recipe is the perfect solution for a quick, healthy dinner that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, you can have a delicious, flaky fish dish on the table in just 15 minutes. It’s an easy weeknight meal the whole family will enjoy!
Baked Cod Recipe
This quick and easy baked cod recipe is perfect for a light, flavorful meal. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s a healthy, low-carb dish packed with garlic, paprika, and fresh lemon. The cod turns out flaky and tender, making it the ideal weeknight dinner. Perfectly paired with steamed vegetables or a side salad.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
6 cod fillets (about 4 oz each)
1 teaspoon garlic powder (or 2 teaspoons minced garlic)
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
Instructions
-
Preheat the oven to 400°F. Lightly grease a baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
-
Pat the cod fillets dry with a paper towel to help the seasoning stick.
-
In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, parsley, and onion powder.
-
Brush the fillets with melted butter and drizzle with lemon juice. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over the fillets.
-
Place the fillets in the prepared baking dish and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. Thin fillets may take as little as 5-6 minutes.
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Serve immediately with lemon wedges and fresh herbs like parsley.
Notes
You can substitute butter with olive oil for a lighter option or to make the dish dairy-free.
Feel free to experiment with additional spices like cayenne pepper for a bit of heat or thyme for added flavor.
Frozen cod works as well, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.
