The tantalizing aroma of garlic and fresh herbs wafting through the kitchen can transform any weeknight into a special occasion. This Easy Baked Cod with Garlic Herb Butter is my go-to recipe when I’m in need of a meal that’s both quick and impressive. In under 30 minutes, you can serve up tender, flaky cod topped with a delightful buttery mixture, perfect for impressing guests or simply enjoying a satisfying dinner at home. Not only is it gluten-free and packed with omega-3s, but this dish also offers an easy way to incorporate more healthy options into your weekly meal plan. Curious how to elevate your dining experience with just a few simple ingredients? Let’s dive into this flavorful recipe! Why is this Baked Cod Recipe a Must-Try? Simplicity, The step-by-step instructions make this dish incredibly easy to prepare, perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. Flavor-packed, The harmony of garlic, herbs, and butter elevates the mild taste of cod, creating a restaurant-quality meal at home. Quick Cooking, Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe fits effortlessly into your busy weeknight routine. Versatile, Want to mix it up? Try variations like spicy baked cod or a crispy topping to customize flavors to your liking. Healthy Choice, Enjoy a low-calorie, omega-3-rich meal that nourishes both the body and the soul—ideal for those looking to eat well without compromising on taste! Crowd-Pleaser, Serve this dish at your next gathering, and watch how it leaves everyone asking for seconds! For more seafood inspiration, check out Baked Cod Zesty and Baked Cod Garlic. Baked Cod Ingredients For the Fish • Cod Filets – The star of this dish; ensure they are fresh for the best flavor and texture. • Kosher Salt – Enhances all flavors; you can swap it for sea salt if preferred. • Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Adds a hint of spice; adjust according to taste. For the Garlic Herb Butter • Butter (softened) – Adds richness and moisture; feel free to use dairy-free butter for a lactose-free option. • Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Enhances flavor and keeps the cod moist throughout baking. • Garlic Cloves (minced) – Provides aromatic flavor; you can adjust the quantity based on preference. • Fresh Herbs (parsley, chives, thyme, or your favorite herbs) – Infuses freshness; dried herbs work too, but use them sparingly. • Paprika – Adds a mild smokiness; consider increasing for a spicier kick. For the Garnish • Lemon (thinly sliced) – Brightens the dish and infuses moisture during baking; substitute with orange or lime for a twist. This Baked Cod recipe is not only delicious but also a fantastic way to bring healthy, home-cooked meals to your table! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Baked Cod Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven warms up, prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or giving it a light grease to prevent sticking. This ensures your Easy Baked Cod will have a beautifully cooked exterior without any sticking issues. Step 2: Make the Garlic Herb Butter In a small bowl, combine softened butter, extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, finely chopped fresh herbs, paprika, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir the mixture vigorously until well combined and creamy. This flavorful garlic herb butter will be the star of your easy baked cod, imparting moisture and aromatic depth. Step 3: Prepare the Cod Filets Place the fresh cod filets onto your prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle them generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper for seasoning. Ensure each filet is evenly coated for enhanced flavor. The fresh cod should appear bright and inviting, setting the stage for this delicious baked dish. Step 4: Apply the Garlic Herb Butter Take the creamy garlic herb butter you prepared and spread it evenly over the top of each seasoned cod filet. Make sure to cover them generously, allowing the butter to melt and seep into the fish while baking. This rich layer will help create that vibrant, flaky texture you desire from your Easy Baked Cod. Step 5: Add Lemon Slices Arrange thin slices of lemon on and around the seasoned cod filets. The citrus not only adds a beautiful visual element but also infuses the fish with a refreshing brightness as it bakes. The lemons will release their moisture, ensuring your cod remains juicy throughout the cooking process. Step 6: Bake the Cod Carefully slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and let the cod bake for 12–15 minutes. You know the cod is done when it becomes opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The aromatic scent of garlic and herbs wafting from the oven will surely get everyone excited for this easy baked cod! Step 7: Serve the Baked Cod Once baked to perfection, remove the cod from the oven. Serve immediately while hot, garnished with additional fresh herbs or lemon wedges if desired. This Easy Baked Cod is best enjoyed fresh, offering a delightful balance of flavors that will surely impress family and friends! What to Serve with Easy Baked Cod Transform your Easy Baked Cod into a delightful dinner experience with these perfect pairings. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their rich, buttery texture complements the flaky cod and helps soak up the delicious herb butter sauce. Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus adds a vibrant green touch to your plate, bringing a satisfying crunch with a slightly charred flavor. Garlicky Green Beans: The fresh, slightly crisp beans tossed in garlic mimic the garlic notes in the dish, enhancing that cozy comfort food vibe. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing option, this salad offers nutty flavors and a lightness that balances the buttery richness of the cod. Citrus-Infused Rice: The bright notes of lemon or lime in the rice echo the citrus addition in the cod, creating a harmonious flavor profile. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and savory parmesan contrast beautifully with the tender fish—perfect for keeping it classic! Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc: These wines, with their fruity and crisp profiles, enhance the flavors while complementing the meal’s lightness for an elegant finish. Lemon Sorbet: A refreshing and palate-cleansing dessert, this citrusy treat ends your meal on a light and zesty note, echoing the flavors of the dish. Herb-Infused Olive Oil Bread: Serve warm slices with a drizzle of herby olive oil for dipping, adding a rustic flair that elevates the dining experience. With these combination ideas, your Easy Baked Cod becomes a centerpiece, making any meal memorable! Expert Tips for Easy Baked Cod Fresh Fish Matters: Using fresh cod is crucial for the best flavor and texture. Check for firm, translucent filets to enhance your dish. Customizable Seasonings: Feel free to adjust garlic and herbs based on your taste. Experimenting can lead to delightful new flavor profiles in your baked cod! Crispy Finish: If you prefer a crispy topping, broil the cod for an additional 1–2 minutes after baking for a delightful crunch. Storage Savvy: Allow leftover cod to cool completely before refrigerating. It keeps well in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat Gently: When reheating, do so gently to prevent drying out the fish. A quick microwave or a low oven temperature works wonders. Baked Cod Variations & Substitutions Feel free to get creative and customize this baked cod recipe for your taste or dietary needs! Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the garlic herb butter for an extra layer of heat. This small tweak can elevate the flavor profile significantly, making it a perfect option for spice lovers! Herb Swap: Use fresh dill or tarragon instead of parsley or chives to give your cod a distinct flavor twist. Each herb contributes a unique taste, making it fun to explore different variations with each batch. Garlic Butter Sauce: Drizzle melted garlic butter over your baked cod just before serving for a rich, indulgent touch. This enhances not only the moisture but also amplifies that irresistible garlic flavor. Crunchy Topping: Mix panko breadcrumbs with herbs and a drizzle of olive oil, then sprinkle it on top before baking for added texture. This creates a deliciously crispy layer, bringing a delightful contrast to the tender fish. Citrus Mix: Throw in some orange or lime slices alongside the lemon for a zesty, fruity twist. This unexpected addition can brighten the dish, adding complexity and sophistication to your meal. Dairy-Free Option: Substitute regular butter with dairy-free butter or olive oil for a lactose-free variation. Achieving the same luscious flavor without dairy ensures everyone at the table can enjoy! Vegetable Additions: Place thinly sliced zucchini or bell peppers on the baking sheet alongside the cod for a colorful, nutritious side. These veggies roast beautifully, soaking up the delicious flavors of the herbs and garlic. Herbed Yogurt Sauce: For a fresh and creamy touch, serve with a dollop of herbed yogurt sauce made with Greek yogurt mixed with lemon juice and fresh herbs. This elevates the dish while adding a cooling element. Explore these variations and turn your baked cod recipe into a delightful adventure! If you’re looking for more seafood ideas, don’t miss out on Baked Gnocchi Forever for creamy inspiration or try our Baked Cod Zesty for a tangy twist! Make Ahead Options These Easy Baked Cod filets are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the garlic herb butter mixture up to 24 hours in advance, keeping it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, season the cod filets with salt and pepper ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days—this helps enhance their flavor as they marinate. When you’re ready to serve, simply spread the butter mixture over the cod, add the lemon slices, and bake straight from the fridge, adjusting the cooking time as needed. This ensures you enjoy a delicious, restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort on busy weeknights! Storage Tips for Baked Cod Fridge: Store any leftover baked cod in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This helps retain its moisture and flavor for your next meal. Freezer: If you want to keep it longer, freeze the baked cod in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Reheating: Gently reheat the cod in the oven at a low temperature (around 300°F/150°C) or in the microwave to avoid drying it out. Enjoy this delicious baked cod just like the day it was made! Easy Baked Cod Recipe FAQs How do I select fresh cod for this recipe? Absolutely! When choosing cod, look for filets that have a slight sheen and a firm texture. They should smell like the ocean, not fishy. If you see any dark spots or discoloration, steer clear. Fresh fish ideally has a translucent appearance and should spring back when pressed. How should I store leftover baked cod? To keep your baked cod fresh, refrigerate it in an airtight container. It will last for up to 2 days in the fridge. This ensures the moisture and flavors are retained. When ready to enjoy again, reheat gently in the oven or microwave to avoid drying it out. Can I freeze baked cod? Yes, you can! To freeze your delicious baked cod, first allow it to cool completely. Then, wrap the filets tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to eat it again, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently. What should I do if my cod isn’t flaking easily? If your cod filets aren’t flaking easily after the suggested baking time, they might need a bit more time in the oven. Check for doneness by using a fork—it should easily break apart when it’s ready. If necessary, continue baking in 1-2 minute increments, keeping an eye on it to prevent overcooking. Is this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions? Very! This Easy Baked Cod recipe is gluten-free and offers a healthy, low-calorie, and high-protein meal option. If you’re looking to avoid dairy, simply substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative without sacrificing flavor. Always check the ingredient labels for any potential allergens specific to your needs. Easy Baked Cod That Melts in Your Mouth in 30 Minutes This easy baked cod recipe features tender, flaky fish topped with garlic herb butter, perfect for a quick and impressive dinner. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 25 minutes mins Servings: 4 filetsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Fish4 filets Cod fresh1 teaspoon Kosher Salt to taste1 teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper to tasteFor the Garlic Herb Butter1/2 cup Butter softened2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil3 cloves Garlic minced1 tablespoon Fresh Herbs finely chopped (parsley, chives, thyme, or your favorite herbs)1 teaspoon PaprikaFor the Garnish1 lemon Lemon thinly sliced Equipment OvenBaking sheetparchment paperBowls Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Easy Baked CodPreheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or greasing it lightly.In a small bowl, combine softened butter, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped herbs, paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix until creamy.Place the cod filets on the prepared baking sheet and season generously with salt and pepper.Spread the garlic herb butter evenly over each cod filet, ensuring a generous coating.Arrange thin lemon slices on and around the cod filets.Bake the cod for 12–15 minutes, or until it is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.Remove the cod from the oven and serve immediately, garnished with additional herbs or lemon wedges if desired. Nutrition Serving: 1filetCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 1gProtein: 25gFat: 17gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 450mgVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg NotesUsing fresh cod is crucial for the best flavor and texture. Feel free to adjust the garlic and herbs based on taste. For a crispy topping, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
