YumVerseEats
Easy Baked Cod
This easy baked cod is a simple, dependable fish dinner that delivers flaky texture and clean flavor without extra steps. A quick lemon-butter drizzle keeps the cod moist while the oven does the work. Make this when you want a light but satisfying meal that feels put-together, works on busy weeknights, and pairs easily with whatever vegetables or grains you already have.
RECIPE AT A GLANCE
10
min
Active Time
25
min
Total Time
2
SERVINGS
Oven
METHOD
Why It Works
Simple seasoning keeps this fish foolproof.
Quick Fixes
Fish sticking: Pat cod completely dry and oil the pan well — wet fish steams and sticks.
Overcooked and dry: Cod is done when it flakes easily at the thickest part — usually 12–15 minutes at 400°F. Don't overbake.
Ingredients
Protein
Seasoning
• 1 tsp paprika
• ¾ tsp kosher salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter, melted
• 1 lemon, zest and juice
Topping
How to Make It
1
Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C). Lightly oil a baking dish.
2
Arrange cod fillets in a single layer. Pat dry so they roast, not steam.
3
Whisk olive oil, melted butter, garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4
Brush the mixture evenly over the cod.
5
Bake uncovered for 18–20 minutes, until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
6
Finish with parsley and an extra squeeze of lemon. Serve hot.
Store
Store leftovers in an airtight container up to 2 days. Store no — cod becomes watery once thawed.
Reheat
Warm gently in a 300°F oven until just heated through.
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MORE READER FAVORITES
10
min active
·
25
min total
15
min active
·
35
min total
25
min active
·
55
min total
10
min active
·
25
min total
Avo's Tip
Cod is done when it flakes cleanly and turns opaque—don’t wait for browning.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know before you start cooking.
• Can I use frozen cod instead of fresh?
Yes, thaw first.
• How do I know the Cod is done?
Flakes easily.
• Can I add sauce?
Yes, herb butter works well.
Easy Baked Cod
Ingredients
—
—
Cod fillets (about 1½ lb total)
—
—
2 cloves garlic, minced
—
—
1 tsp paprika
—
—
¾ tsp kosher salt
—
—
½ tsp black pepper
—
—
2 tbsp olive oil
—
—
2 tbsp butter, melted
—
—
1 lemon, zest and juice
—
—
1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
1
Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C). Lightly oil a baking dish.
2
Arrange cod fillets in a single layer. Pat dry so they roast, not steam.
3
Whisk olive oil, melted butter, garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4
Brush the mixture evenly over the cod.
5
Bake uncovered for 18–20 minutes, until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
6
Finish with parsley and an extra squeeze of lemon. Serve hot.
10
min
active
25
min
total
2
servings
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