Looking for a healthy and delicious weeknight dinner that’s as easy as it is impressive? Baked Cod with Garlic and Lemon is the answer. This light and flaky white fish is baked to perfection with zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and a touch of olive oil for a meal that’s both heart-healthy and full of flavor. Whether you’re a seafood lover or simply craving a quick, clean dinner, this baked cod recipe brings restaurant-quality taste to your kitchen in under half an hour.
A Brief History of Cod in American Cooking
Cod has long been a staple in American kitchens, especially in New England where the fishing industry helped shape regional cuisine. Traditionally used in chowders and fish fries, cod is beloved for its mild flavor and versatility. Today, healthy baked cod recipes like this one are making a strong comeback as people seek nutritious and simple meals. With keywords like oven-baked fish, Mediterranean-style cod, and garlic lemon baked cod, this classic dish is a perfect match for modern health-conscious cooks.
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Baked Cod with Garlic and Lemon
Ingredients
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4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)
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3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
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1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
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3 garlic cloves, finely minced
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2 tablespoons fresh herbs (such as parsley, chives, or thyme), finely chopped
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½ teaspoon paprika
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1 lemon, thinly sliced into rounds
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Kosher salt, to taste
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Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish and arrange the cod fillets in a single layer.
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Prepare the garlic herb butter: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter with olive oil, minced garlic, chopped herbs, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
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Spread the mixture evenly over the top of each fillet, coating the surface with the flavorful butter blend.
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Add lemon slices: Tuck some lemon slices underneath the fish and place the rest on top of the fillets.
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Bake for 13 to 15 minutes, or until the cod turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
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Finish and serve: Once baked, spoon some of the pan juices over the fish for extra flavor. Serve hot with your favorite side dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cod—just be sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before baking to avoid excess moisture.
How do I know when the cod is done?
You’ll know the cod is done when it becomes opaque and flakes effortlessly with a fork. For food safety, the internal temperature should reach 145°F.
What sides go well with baked cod?
Popular side dishes include roasted vegetables, steamed broccoli, quinoa, rice pilaf, or a crisp garden salad. They’re great for maintaining a healthy fish dinner balance.
Is cod a healthy fish?
Absolutely. Cod is low in fat, high in protein, and a great source of vitamin B12 and omega-3s. It’s perfect for heart-healthy diets.
Flavor Variations to Try
Want to spice things up? Try these delicious twists on the classic garlic and lemon cod:
- Mediterranean-style: Add cherry tomatoes, kalamata olives, and capers before baking.
- Herb-infused: Mix chopped fresh herbs like dill, thyme, or basil into the olive oil and garlic.
- Spicy kick: Sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne for heat lovers.
- Butter upgrade: Swap olive oil for a garlic herb butter for a richer flavor.
These variations pair beautifully with the cod’s delicate texture and enhance the overall flavor profile.
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (such as parsley, chives, or thyme), finely chopped
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced into rounds
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish and arrange the cod fillets in a single layer.
- Prepare the garlic herb butter: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter with olive oil, minced garlic, chopped herbs, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
- Spread the mixture evenly over the top of each fillet, coating the surface with the flavorful butter blend.
- Add lemon slices: Tuck some lemon slices underneath the fish and place the rest on top of the fillets.
- Bake for 13 to 15 minutes, or until the cod turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Finish and serve: Once baked, spoon some of the pan juices over the fish for extra flavor. Serve hot with your favorite side dishes.
Tips, Warnings and Notes
Tips
- Use parchment or foil for easy cleanup.
- Zest the lemon before slicing it to get the most flavor.
- Let the cod sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before baking for even cooking.
Warnings
- Avoid overbaking—dry cod is no fun.
- Don’t skip patting the fish dry; moisture can cause steaming instead of baking.
Notes
- This recipe is gluten-free, low-carb, and fits well into Mediterranean and pescatarian diets.
- For meal prep, cook the cod and store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 10g (mostly from heart-healthy olive oil)
- Carbs: 2g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Gluten-Free: Yes
- Dairy-Free: Yes
What Makes This Baked Cod with Garlic and Lemon a Must-Try
It’s everything you want in a go-to dinner: quick to make, light yet satisfying, and loaded with bright, clean flavor. The garlic and lemon combo enhances the fish’s natural taste without overpowering it, making this one of the best baked cod recipes out there. Whether you’re aiming for a low-fat meal, a family-friendly dinner, or something impressive for guests, this recipe checks all the boxes.