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by Lisa Bryan
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Updated May 23, 2024
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This baked cod is an easy and foolproof recipe for perfectly flaky fish, every time. A simple buttery garlic herb topping transforms cod fillets into a delicious, light, and healthy weeknight dinner – in under 30 minutes!
![Garlic Herb Baked Cod - Downshiftology (2) Garlic Herb Baked Cod - Downshiftology (2)](https://i0.wp.com/i2.wp.com/www.downshiftology.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Baked-Cod-6-2.jpg)
While baked salmon tends to get a lot of attention, a cod fillet is not one to be overlooked. It’s just as meaty, holds up well in a variety of recipes like today’s garlic herb baked cod and this Mediterranean cod en papillote, and you simply can’t beat that flaky texture.
But what I love most about baked cod is how darn easy it is to make. All you have to do is stir together the garlic herb butter mixture, slather it on top of the cod, and then bake it in the oven. You’ll have one unbelievably flavorful and healthy dinner in less than 30 minutes!
![Garlic Herb Baked Cod - Downshiftology (3) Garlic Herb Baked Cod - Downshiftology (3)](https://i0.wp.com/i2.wp.com/www.downshiftology.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Baked-Cod-Ingredients.jpg)
Baked Cod Ingredients
Garlic and butter will always be a dynamic duo when it comes to flavoring seafood. But here are a few other things you’ll need.
- Cod: I’m using wild-caught Alaskan cod in this recipe. But if that’s not readily available, you could also use halibut, mahi mahi, or another flaky white fish.
- Butter: I use unsalted butter so I can add then season with salt to my preference.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic is preferred for the most robust flavor, but you can also use garlic powder in a pinch.
- Parsley: Chopped parsley in the garlic butter adds a lovely pop of green. Not a fan of parsley? Try chives, thyme or another tender herbs.
- Lemon: Fish and lemon are best friends!
- Paprika: Add just a touch of paprika to elevate the flavor profile.
Fresh versus Frozen Cod
If you can’t find fresh cod at the market, don’t fret. Frozen Alaskan cod might be the better option. Why? It’s hard to tell how long the “fresh” cod on ice has been sitting out. Plus, fresh catches of the day can be a bit pricey and hard to come by.
![Garlic Herb Baked Cod - Downshiftology (4) Garlic Herb Baked Cod - Downshiftology (4)](https://i0.wp.com/i2.wp.com/www.downshiftology.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Baked-Cod-4-2.jpg)
How To Bake Cod Perfectly
Pan searing is one way to achieve a beautiful crust. But I find that baking cod in the oven is hands down the most foolproof method. Here’s how to make it.
- Make the garlic herb butter. Stir the butter, garlic, herbs, and seasonings together.
- Coat the fish. Smear the garlic herb butter mixture on the cod fillets.
- Bake the fish. After 13 to 15 minutes in the oven the fish should be flaky and ready to serve!
![Garlic Herb Baked Cod - Downshiftology (5) Garlic Herb Baked Cod - Downshiftology (5)](https://i0.wp.com/i2.wp.com/www.downshiftology.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Baked-Cod-7-2.jpg)
Switch Up The Seasonings
Give this cod recipe a flavor twist by tweaking the seasoning in the garlic butter. Here are a few ideas:
- French: Use fresh or dried thyme in place of the parsley, and add a tablespoon of chopped capers.
- Cajun: Replace the paprika with your favorite Cajun seasoning blend and a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Italian: Swap the parsley for fresh basil, and the paprika for Italian seasoning.
- Spanish: Use smoked paprika instead of sweet.
- Mexican: Substitute chopped cilantro for the parsley, ground cumin for the paprika, and lime for the lemon.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
- To store in the fridge: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 2 to 3 days in an airtight container.
- To freeze for later: Yes, you can freeze cod! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- For reheating: Simply reheatin the microwave 30 seconds at a time until the fish is warmed through.
![Garlic Herb Baked Cod - Downshiftology (6) Garlic Herb Baked Cod - Downshiftology (6)](https://i0.wp.com/i2.wp.com/www.downshiftology.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Baked-Cod-10.jpg)
More Easy Seafood Recipes To Love
If you’re a seafood lover like, I’m confident you’ll love these recipes as well:
- Salmon Patties – these are also great for meal prep!
- Creamy Chipotle Shrimp – the chipotle sauce is truly divine.
- Ahi Tuna Poke Bowl – a light and fresh poke bowl you’re sure to love.
- Garlic Grilled Shrimp Skewers – garlicky shrimp get tossed on the grill for smoky flavor.
- Scallops with Citrus Ginger Sauce – this sauce pairs beautifully with scallops.
I hope you enjoy this garlic herb baked cod! If you make it,drop a comment below on how it turned out. Your review will help other readers in the community.
Garlic Herb Baked Cod
4.97 from 138 votes
Prep: 10 minutes mins
Cook: 15 minutes mins
Total: 25 minutes mins
Servings: 4 servings
Author: Lisa Bryan
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Description
This baked cod is an easy and foolproof recipe for perfectly buttery, garlicky, and flaky fish every time!
Equipment
Casserole Pan You can fit several cod fillets on this pan!
Ingredients
- 4 (6-ounce) cod filets
- 3 tablespoons butter, softened
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons parsley, chives, thyme or other herbs, finely chopped
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the cod in a baking dish.
In a small bowl, mix together the butter, olive oil, minced garlic, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Spread the compound butter mixture on top of each filet.
Lay the lemon slices both on top and under the cod filets.
Bake in the oven for 13 to 15 minutes, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Before serving, spoon the juices from the baking dish over the cod.
Nutrition
Calories: 258kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 31g | Fat: 13g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Cholesterol: 96mg | Sodium: 169mg | Potassium: 760mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 622IU | Vitamin C: 19mg | Calcium: 44mg | Iron: 1mg
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Baked Cod, Baked Cod Recipe
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Recipe originally published September 2020, but updated to include new information for your benefit!