Easy Baked Cod Recipe

Baked cod is a classic, healthy, and delicious dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or elegant dinners. This recipe is simple, requiring minimal ingredients and effort, yet it delivers a flavorful and flaky result every time. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for a light and nutritious meal, this baked cod recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make the perfect baked cod, including preparation tips, step-by-step instructions, variations, and serving suggestions. Let’s get started!

Recipe Preparation Equipment

Before you begin, make sure you have the following equipment:

• Baking dish or sheet pan
• Parchment paper or aluminum foil (for easy cleanup)
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or fork
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Knife and cutting board
• Basting brush (optional)

What Do You Need to Prepare Baked Cod?

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this easy baked cod recipe:

• 1.5 lbs (680g) fresh cod fillets (or frozen, thawed)
• 2 tbsp olive oil (or melted butter)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 lemon (sliced for garnish and juice)
• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

How to Make Easy Baked Cod Step-by-Step ?

Follow these simple steps to create a flavorful and flaky baked cod:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Cod Fillets

Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This ensures the fish cooks evenly and develops a nice texture.

Step 3: Season the Cod

In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, thyme, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Brush this mixture evenly over both sides of the cod fillets.

Step 4: Arrange in the Baking Dish

Place the seasoned cod fillets in the prepared baking dish. Add lemon slices on top for extra flavor and a fresh aroma.

Step 5: Bake the Cod

Bake the cod in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Avoid overcooking to keep the cod moist and tender.

Variations

This baked cod recipe is versatile and can be customized to suit your taste:

• Lemon Herb Cod: Add fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or cilantro for a bright, herby flavor.
• Spicy Cod: Sprinkle chili powder or cayenne pepper for a kick of heat.
• Garlic Butter Cod: Replace olive oil with melted butter and add minced garlic for a rich, buttery taste.
• Panko-Crusted Cod: Top the fillets with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and herbs for a crispy crust.

Cooking Notes

• Fresh vs. Frozen Cod: Fresh cod is ideal, but frozen cod works well too. Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before seasoning.
• Avoid Overcooking: Cod cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to prevent drying out. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
• Marinating: For extra flavor, marinate the cod in the seasoning mixture for 15-30 minutes before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Baked cod pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas:

• Steamed vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or green beans
• A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette
• Garlic mashed potatoes or roasted sweet potatoes
• Quinoa or brown rice for a wholesome meal

Helpful Tips

• Choose Fresh Cod: Look for firm, translucent fillets with a mild ocean smell. Avoid fish that smells overly fishy or has a slimy texture.
• Even Thickness: If your cod fillets vary in thickness, fold the thinner parts under to ensure even cooking.
• Rest Before Serving: Let the cod rest for 2-3 minutes after baking to allow the juices to redistribute.

Tips for the Best Baked Cod

• Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
• Add a splash of white wine or broth to the baking dish for extra moisture.
• Garnish with fresh herbs and lemon wedges for a vibrant presentation.

Prep Time, Cooking Time, Total Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Nutritional Information

Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 220 kcal
• Protein: 35g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 2g

Related Recipes :

• Crispy Beer Batter Fish Recipe
• Easy Fish Tacos with Cabbage Slaw Recipe
• Coconut Lime Fish Soup Recipe
• Easy Mediterranean Baked Fish Recipe

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?

Yes, frozen cod works well. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and pat it dry before using.

2. How do I know when the cod is done?

The cod is done when it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should be 145°F (63°C).

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the seasoning mixture and marinate the cod in advance. Bake just before serving.

Conclusion

This easy baked cod recipe is a foolproof way to enjoy a healthy, flavorful, and restaurant-quality meal at home. With minimal prep and cooking time, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Plus, it’s highly customizable, so you can experiment with different flavors and ingredients.

Try this recipe today and impress your family and friends with a delicious, flaky baked cod dish. Don’t forget to share your results and let us know how it turned out!

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