There’s nothing quite like the simplicity of a perfectly baked cod. Light, flaky, and packed with delicate flavors, this dish is a must-try for seafood lovers and anyone looking for an easy, nutritious dinner.

I first made this recipe on a busy weeknight when I needed something quick, healthy, and satisfying. The result? A beautifully tender cod fillet, infused with the rich flavors of butter, garlic, and lemon. It’s the kind of dish that feels gourmet but requires minimal effort—perfect for a casual family dinner or even a special occasion.

If you’ve ever struggled with dry or bland fish, this recipe will change the way you cook cod forever. Keep reading to discover the secret to achieving restaurant-quality baked cod right in your kitchen!

Why I Love This Recipe

The beauty of this baked cod recipe is in its simplicity and flavor. Cod is a mild, firm fish that absorbs seasonings beautifully, and this method ensures it stays incredibly moist.

Why You’ll Love It Too:

Fast and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes with just a handful of ingredients.
Healthy and light – A protein-packed, low-calorie meal that’s also rich in omega-3s.
Versatile – Perfect with a side of roasted veggies, rice, or a fresh salad.
Foolproof cooking method – Say goodbye to overcooked, rubbery fish!

If you’ve been hesitant to cook seafood at home, this is the perfect beginner-friendly recipe to try. The method is simple, but the results are absolutely delicious.

Ingredients for Baked Cod

To make this dish incredibly flavorful, you’ll need a few basic ingredients—most of which you probably already have in your kitchen!

The Essentials:

Fresh cod fillets – Look for firm, white fish with no strong fishy odor.
Olive oil – Helps keep the fish moist while baking.
Butter – Adds richness and enhances the flaky texture.
Garlic – Brings out a deep, savory flavor.
Lemon juice – Brightens up the dish and balances the richness.
Paprika – Adds a subtle warmth and beautiful color.
Salt and black pepper – Simple seasonings that enhance the natural taste of cod.
Fresh parsley – A finishing touch for added freshness.

You can always adjust the seasoning to your preference, but this combination gives you the perfect balance of flavors.

How Much Time Will You Need

This baked cod recipe is quick and effortless, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

With less than 30 minutes from start to finish, this dish is perfect when you need a delicious meal in a hurry.

How to Make This Baked Cod

Cooking cod might seem intimidating, but this step-by-step method makes it foolproof.

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—this helps the seasonings adhere better and ensures a crispier texture.

Step 3: Season the Fish

In a small bowl, mix olive oil, melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Brush this mixture generously over each fillet.

Step 4: Bake the Cod

Place the seasoned fillets in the baking dish and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches

Once done, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges.

Pro Tip: If you want an extra golden top, broil the fish for the last 2 minutes of cooking!

Substitutions

If you’re out of certain ingredients, don’t worry—there are plenty of swaps that work just as well.

No cod? Use halibut, haddock, or tilapia.
No fresh garlic? Garlic powder works in a pinch.
Dairy-free? Skip the butter and use extra olive oil.
Want a spicier kick? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.

These swaps won’t compromise the flavor but will make the recipe more adaptable to what you have on hand.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Cod

A well-paired side dish makes this meal even more satisfying. Here are my top three choices:

Garlic Butter Asparagus – The perfect balance of crisp and tender, with a rich garlicky flavor.
Lemon Herb Quinoa – Light and fluffy with a bright citrusy taste that complements the cod beautifully.
Roasted Baby Potatoes – Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and seasoned to perfection.

Each of these sides enhances the dish without overpowering the delicate flavor of the fish.

Serving and Presentation Tips

A beautifully plated dish makes the meal even more enjoyable. Baked cod may be simple, but a little attention to detail can make it feel like a gourmet experience.

How to Present Your Baked Cod Like a Pro

Use a White Plate: The delicate color of the cod pops against a plain white dish, making it look more elegant.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley, dill, or chives adds color and a touch of freshness.
Add Lemon Wedges: A simple slice of lemon on the side makes the dish look more inviting and allows guests to adjust the flavor to their liking.
Drizzle with Extra Butter Sauce: Right before serving, drizzle a little extra melted butter and garlic sauce over the fillets for a glossy, restaurant-quality finish.

Tips and Tricks to Make This Recipe Even Better

Even though this baked cod recipe is already amazing, a few extra tips can make it even more flavorful and foolproof.

Use Fresh Cod for the Best Flavor – While frozen cod works, fresh fish always has a better texture and taste. If using frozen, make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before seasoning.
Don’t Overcook the Fish – Cod should be opaque and flaky but still moist. Overcooking can dry it out, so check it at the 12-minute mark.
Let the Fish Rest for a Minute Before Serving – Just like meat, fish benefits from a short resting period to allow the juices to redistribute.
Try a Crispy Topping – For a little crunch, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle on top before baking.
Experiment with Flavors – Add a dash of white wine, Dijon mustard, or capers for extra depth.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with a simple recipe, a few missteps can affect the final result. Here’s what to watch out for:

1. Using Wet Fish

Pat your cod dry before seasoning. Extra moisture prevents the seasonings from sticking and can make the fish steam instead of bake.

2. Overbaking

Cod cooks quickly! If you leave it in the oven for too long, it can turn rubbery. Use a fork to check for doneness—if it flakes easily, it’s ready.

3. Skimping on Seasoning

Cod has a mild flavor, so it needs the right balance of seasoning to bring out its best taste. Don’t be afraid to add enough salt, garlic, and lemon.

4. Using a Low Oven Temperature

Baking cod at too low a temperature (below 375°F) can make it take longer to cook and dry out. Stick to 400°F for the perfect balance of tenderness and light crispness.

How to Store It

If you have leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat your baked cod while keeping it fresh.

Refrigeration:

Let the cod cool to room temperature before storing.
Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing:

Wrap the cooked fish tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag.
Freeze for up to 2 months.
To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in a low oven (300°F) for 10 minutes.

Reheating Tips:

Use an oven instead of a microwave to avoid drying out the fish.
If reheating in a skillet, add a little butter or olive oil to prevent sticking and restore moisture.

FAQ

1. Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight and pat it dry before baking.

2. How do I know when the cod is fully cooked?

The cod should be opaque and flaky. If you’re unsure, use a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).

3. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Absolutely! Simply swap the butter for extra olive oil or use a dairy-free alternative like ghee.

4. What other seasonings work well with baked cod?

Try Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, Old Bay, or lemon pepper for a different flavor twist.

5. What’s the best way to keep baked cod moist?

Baking at 400°F for no more than 15 minutes, using a butter and olive oil mixture, and not overcooking are the best ways to ensure the fish stays tender.