Baked cod is a delightful dish that brings the ocean’s freshest flavors right to your dinner table. Imagine tender, flaky fish kissed by the warmth of the oven, drizzled with olive oil, and seasoned to perfection. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, promising a feast for both the eyes and palate.
Whether you’re hosting a fancy dinner or just whipping up something special for your family, baked cod is your go-to recipe. It’s simple yet sophisticated, making it perfect for any occasion from casual weeknight dinners to celebratory feasts.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Baked cod is incredibly easy to prepare and takes minimal time in the kitchen
- The flavor profile is light yet satisfying, enhanced with fresh herbs and spices
- Its visual appeal will impress your guests, making it a centerpiece on any dining table
- This dish is versatile enough to pair with various sides or stand alone as a star attraction
There’s nothing quite like the first time I served baked cod at my friend’s dinner party. The look of surprise on their faces as they took that first bite was priceless.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Fresh Cod Fillets: Look for bright, translucent fillets; they should smell like the sea, not fishy.
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Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor while keeping the fish moist.
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Fresh Lemon Juice: Adds brightness; fresh is always better than bottled for maximum zing.
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Garlic Cloves: Fresh minced garlic packs a punch of flavor; use more if you’re feeling adventurous.
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Fresh Herbs (Parsley or Dill): Choose whichever herb you prefer; they add freshness and color to the dish.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings; don’t skimp on them—they really elevate the flavors!
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Panko Breadcrumbs: For a crispy topping that contrasts beautifully with the tender fish underneath.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures even cooking and helps develop that gorgeous golden-brown crust.
Prepare Your Baking Dish: Coat a baking dish with nonstick spray or olive oil. This prevents sticking and allows for easy cleanup—nobody wants to scrub burnt fish!
Season the Cod Fillets: Place your fresh cod fillets in the baking dish and drizzle them liberally with olive oil. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over them, then sprinkle minced garlic, salt, pepper, and herbs generously.
Add Panko Topping: In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with a splash of olive oil until lightly coated. Sprinkle this mixture over each fillet for that lovely crunch.
Bake It Up!: Slide your baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork. Keep an eye on it—the last thing you want is dry cod!
Serve and Enjoy!: Once done, let it rest for a minute before serving. Garnish with additional herbs or lemon wedges if desired—your taste buds will thank you!
Now that you have this easy baked cod recipe down pat, imagine how impressed your family and friends will be when they taste its delicate flavors! Enjoy every flaky bite as you bask in compliments!
You Must Know
- Baked cod is not just a dish; it’s a culinary canvas
- By mastering its simplicity, you can impress anyone at the dinner table
- The flaky texture and light flavor make it perfect for pairing with various sides, ensuring every bite bursts with taste
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve that perfect flaky texture, start by preheating your oven to 375°F. While it warms up, season your cod with herbs, then place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to get creative with baked cod! Add lemon slices for brightness or a sprinkle of paprika for a smoky kick. You can also switch up the herbs; dill or parsley work wonders too.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover baked cod in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, bake at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes to retain its moisture and flavor.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly cooked baked cod, choose thicker fillets for even cooking and avoid overcooking by checking for doneness frequently
- Experiment with different marinades like a lemon-garlic mix to elevate flavors
- Lastly, let it rest briefly before serving to enhance juiciness
Baking cod always reminds me of my grandmother’s kitchen, where she’d whip up her famous fish dinners. The compliments from family and friends still echo in my ears as they savored each bite!
FAQ
What temperature should I bake cod at?
Bake cod at 375°F (190°C) for optimal results and flaky texture.
How long does it take to bake cod?
Typically, bake cod for about 15-20 minutes depending on thickness.
Can I use frozen cod for baking?
Yes, you can use frozen cod; just ensure it’s fully thawed before baking.
Baked Cod
Baked cod is a delectable, healthy dish that transforms fresh fish into a flavorful centerpiece for any meal. Tender and flaky, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of cod with vibrant lemon, fragrant garlic, and a crispy panko topping. Perfect for both casual family dinners and elegant entertaining, baked cod offers a delightful dining experience that’s easy to prepare.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Seafood
Ingredients
- 4 fresh cod fillets (6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare a baking dish by coating it with nonstick spray or olive oil.
- Place cod fillets in the dish and drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice. Season with garlic, salt, pepper, and herbs.
- In a bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with a splash of olive oil and sprinkle over the fillets.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet (170g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
