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A quick and wholesome baked cod recipe featuring garlic herb butter, fresh herbs, and lemon, delivering tender, flaky, and flavorful fish in under 30 minutes.

  • Total Time: 22-25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 fresh cod filets
  • 1 tsp kosher salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 cup softened butter (dairy-free alternative can be used)
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh herbs (parsley, chives, thyme, or preferred)
  • 1 tsp paprika (smoked paprika optional)
  • 1 medium lemon, thinly sliced

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it with olive oil.
  2. If using frozen cod, thaw and pat dry with paper towels.
  3. In a medium bowl, combine softened butter, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs, paprika, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper; mix until creamy.
  4. Place cod filets evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
  5. Season both sides of the filets with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  6. Generously spread the garlic herb butter mixture over the top of each filet.
  7. Lay thin lemon slices on top of the cod filets and scatter any extras around the baking sheet.
  8. Bake for 12-15 minutes until cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
  9. Optional: Broil the filets for 1-2 minutes after baking to crisp the top, watching carefully to prevent burning.
  10. Remove from oven and let rest for 1-2 minutes before serving.

Notes

Always use fresh cod for the best texture and flavor., Pat cod dry if using frozen to prevent sogginess., Avoid overcooking; cod should be opaque and flaky when done., Try different fresh herbs like dill, basil, or tarragon to vary flavor., For a crispy topping, add panko breadcrumbs mixed with herbs and olive oil before baking., To add a spicy kick, incorporate cayenne pepper or red chili flakes into the butter., Broiling for a short time after baking adds a crispy texture but watch carefully., Serve with sides like mashed potatoes, steamed asparagus, citrus quinoa salad, or garlic butter green beans., Butter can be swapped for a dairy-free alternative if needed., Make and season the dish up to 24 hours ahead for convenience., Store cooked cod in an airtight container in the fridge up to 2 days or freeze for up to 1 month.

  • Author: Ashley
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cod filet
  • Calories: 200 kcal
  • Fat: 10 g
  • Carbohydrates: 2 g
  • Protein: 25 g