This baked cod recipe delivers tender, flaky fillets infused with garlic, butter, lemon, and fresh herbs. It’s a light, healthy dinner ready in under 30 minutes — perfect for busy weeknights yet elegant enough for guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love how effortlessly flavorful and juicy this cod turns out. The buttery garlic herb topping gives every bite a rich, savory taste balanced by a bright hint of lemon. It’s low-carb, gluten-free, and ideal for a wholesome seafood meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 lemon, sliced
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
2. In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the cod fillets in the baking dish and brush each one generously with the garlic butter mixture.
4. Arrange lemon slices on top of each fillet.
5. Bake for 13 to 15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
6. Serve warm, garnished with extra parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice.

Servings and timing

Serves 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• French: Add chopped capers and use thyme instead of parsley.
• Cajun: Replace paprika with Cajun seasoning and add a dash of cayenne.
• Italian: Use fresh basil and Italian seasoning.
• Spanish: Substitute smoked paprika for a deeper flavor.
• Mexican: Try cilantro, cumin, and lime instead of parsley, paprika, and lemon.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, microwave in 30-second intervals until warm, or reheat in a 325°F (160°C) oven for 10 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?

Yes, just thaw it completely and pat it dry before baking.

What type of cod works best?

Wild-caught Alaskan cod is preferred for its mild flavor and firm texture.

Can I substitute another fish?

Yes, halibut, haddock, or mahi mahi work well.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, it’s naturally low-carb and high in protein.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Swap the butter with olive oil or a vegan butter alternative.

What can I serve with baked cod?

Try roasted vegetables, quinoa, rice, or a light salad.

How do I know when the fish is done?

The cod should be opaque and flake easily with a fork.

Can I prepare it ahead of time?

You can mix the butter sauce and store it in the fridge, but bake the fish fresh for best results.

Does cod have a strong flavor?

No, cod has a mild, slightly sweet taste that pairs well with herbs and lemon.

Can I cook it in foil?

Yes, baking in foil locks in moisture and makes cleanup easy.

Conclusion

Garlic Herb Baked Cod is a simple yet flavorful seafood dish that combines buttery richness, bright lemon, and fresh herbs for a perfectly balanced meal. Quick to prepare and universally loved, it’s a healthy dinner option that’s sure to become a regular on your menu.

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