8 Best Baked Cod Recipes for a Perfect Dinner

You’ve never tasted seafood perfection until you’ve tried these eight baked cod recipes.

They’ll transform your weeknight dinners from mundane to magnificent with minimal effort—most taking less than 30 minutes to prepare.

From the bright Mediterranean flavors of lemon-herb cod to the indulgent garlic butter version with its crispy topping, there’s a recipe to match any mood or occasion.

What makes these dishes truly special isn’t just their flavor, but how they’ll change your perception of home-cooked seafood forever.

Lemon Herb Baked Cod With Mediterranean Spices

This light and flavorful baked cod dish brings together the bright essence of lemon with aromatic herbs and warm Mediterranean spices. The delicate cod fillets are perfectly complemented by a blend of earthy cumin, paprika, and fragrant herbs, creating a healthy and satisfying meal that can be prepared in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients:

• 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 lemons (1 juiced, 1 sliced)
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon ground coriander
• ½ teaspoon turmeric
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
• Black olives, pitted (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.

Step 2: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and place them in the prepared baking dish.

Step 3: In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, oregano, thyme, coriander, turmeric, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper.

Step 4: Pour the seasoned oil mixture over the cod fillets, making sure they’re well coated on all sides.

Step 5: Arrange lemon slices on and around the fish. If using, scatter cherry tomatoes and black olives around the fillets.

Step 6: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Step 7: Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley and cilantro.

Step 8: Serve immediately, spooning some of the flavorful cooking juices over each portion.

Nutrition:

• Calories: 220 kcal
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Vitamin C: 35% DV
• Vitamin D: 20% DV
• Omega-3 fatty acids: 1.2g

Garlic Butter Cod With Crispy Breadcrumb Topping

This garlic butter cod is a simple yet elegant dish that transforms mild cod fillets into a flavor-packed meal. The buttery garlic sauce keeps the fish moist while the crispy breadcrumb topping adds a delightful crunch. Perfect for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for guests.

Ingredients:

• 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

Step 3: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.

Step 4: Remove from heat and stir in 1 tablespoon of lemon juice and half of the chopped parsley.

Step 5: In a bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, olive oil, paprika, oregano, lemon zest, remaining parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.

Step 6: Brush the cod fillets generously with the garlic butter mixture.

Step 7: Press the breadcrumb mixture on top of each fillet, creating an even layer.

Step 8: Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.

Step 9: Drizzle the remaining lemon juice over the fillets before serving.

Nutrition:

• Calories: 320 per serving
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Cholesterol: 85mg

Honey Mustard Glazed Cod With Roasted Vegetables

This simple yet elegant dish pairs flaky cod fillets with a sweet and tangy honey mustard glaze. The cod bakes alongside colorful roasted vegetables for a complete, nutritious meal that comes together in under 40 minutes. Perfect for weeknight dinners or when entertaining guests who appreciate seafood.

Ingredients:

• 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 lemon, half juiced and half sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
• 1 medium zucchini, sliced
• 1 red onion, cut into wedges
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: In a bowl, toss the bell peppers, zucchini, red onion, and cherry tomatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on the prepared baking sheet and roast for 15 minutes.

Step 3: While the vegetables are roasting, prepare the honey mustard glaze by whisking together the honey, both mustards, minced garlic, remaining tablespoon of olive oil, and lemon juice in a small bowl.

Step 4: After the vegetables have roasted for 15 minutes, push them to the sides of the baking sheet to make room for the cod fillets in the center.

Step 5: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper. Place them on the baking sheet among the vegetables.

Step 6: Brush the honey mustard glaze generously over each cod fillet. Place lemon slices on top of the fish.

Step 7: Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the vegetables are tender.

Step 8: Remove from the oven and sprinkle fresh dill over the fish and vegetables before serving.

Nutrition:

• Calories: 320 per serving
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 16g
• Sodium: 380mg

Spicy Cajun Baked Cod With Corn Salsa

This spicy Cajun baked cod is a flavor-packed dish that combines the delicate texture of cod with bold Cajun spices and a revitalizing corn salsa. The natural sweetness of the corn salsa balances perfectly with the spicy kick of the Cajun seasoning, creating a delightful contrast that makes this dish both satisfying and wholesome.

Ingredients:

• 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
• 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
• ½ red onion, finely diced
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 lime, juiced
• 1 tablespoon honey

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: In a small bowl, mix together the Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.

Step 3: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Brush each fillet with olive oil on both sides.

Step 4: Generously sprinkle the spice mixture over both sides of the fish, pressing gently to adhere.

Step 5: Bake the cod in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.

Step 6: While the fish is baking, prepare the corn salsa. In a medium bowl, combine corn, diced red bell pepper, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro.

Step 7: In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice and honey. Pour over the corn mixture and toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 8: When the cod is done, serve immediately with the corn salsa spooned over the top or on the side.

Nutrition:

• Calories: 310 per serving
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 420mg

Coconut Crusted Cod With Mango Chutney

This tropical-inspired dish combines the delicate flavor of cod with a crispy coconut crust, perfectly complemented by a sweet and tangy mango chutney. The contrast of textures and flavors creates a restaurant-quality meal that’s surprisingly simple to make at home.

Ingredients:

• 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and diced
• 1 small red onion, finely chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
• 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
• 1 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 tsp ground cumin

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the mango chutney first. In a medium bowl, combine diced mangoes, red onion, bell pepper, jalapeño, lime juice, honey, cilantro, and cumin. Mix well and set aside to let the flavors meld while you prepare the fish.

Step 3: Set up your breading station with three shallow dishes. Place flour seasoned with salt and pepper in the first dish. In the second dish, beat the eggs. In the third dish, combine the shredded coconut, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and paprika.

Step 4: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Dredge each fillet in the flour mixture, shaking off excess, then dip in the beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with the coconut-panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

Step 5: Place the coated fillets on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle or spray with olive oil to help with browning.

Step 6: Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork, and the coating is golden brown and crispy.

Step 7: Serve the coconut-crusted cod immediately, topped with a generous spoonful of mango chutney.

Nutrition:

• Calories: 420 per serving
• Protein: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fat: 21g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 420mg

Middle Eastern Za’atar Cod With Tahini Drizzle

This flavorful Middle Eastern-inspired cod dish combines the aromatic za’atar spice blend with buttery cod fillets, finished with a creamy tahini drizzle. The combination of earthy spices and tender fish creates a healthy, protein-rich meal that’s both impressive and simple to prepare.

Ingredients:

• 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons za’atar spice blend
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 lemons (one sliced, one for juice)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup tahini paste
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons pine nuts, toasted
• Pomegranate seeds for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels.

Step 2: In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons olive oil, 2 tablespoons za’atar, cumin, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Place cod fillets on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the spice mixture evenly over the tops of the fillets.

Step 4: Arrange lemon slices around the fish and sprinkle the minced garlic over and around the fillets.

Step 5: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.

Step 6: While the fish is baking, prepare the tahini drizzle. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini paste, water, lemon juice, honey, and remaining 1 tablespoon za’atar until smooth. Add more water if needed to reach a drizzling consistency.

Step 7: When the cod is done, remove from the oven and let rest for 2 minutes.

Step 8: Transfer the fillets to serving plates, drizzle with the tahini sauce, and garnish with fresh parsley, toasted pine nuts, and pomegranate seeds if using.

Nutrition:

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 35g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Calcium: 8% DV
• Iron: 10% DV

Asian-Inspired Ginger Soy Glazed Cod

This delicate baked cod recipe features a savory Asian-inspired glaze that combines fresh ginger, soy sauce, and a touch of honey for the perfect balance of flavors. The fish turns out tender and flaky while the sauce caramelizes beautifully during baking, creating an elegant yet simple weeknight dinner option.

Ingredients:

• 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
• 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 1 lime, cut into wedges
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a baking dish.

Step 2: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Step 3: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, grated ginger, minced garlic, and sesame oil until well combined.

Step 4: Brush half of the glaze over the cod fillets, ensuring they’re evenly coated.

Step 5: Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and brush with the remaining glaze.

Step 6: Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Step 7: Garnish with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and red pepper flakes if using.

Step 8: Serve immediately with lime wedges for squeezing over the fish.

Nutrition:

• Calories: 220 per serving
• Protein: 32g
• Fat: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 11g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 580mg
• Sugar: 9g

Herb-Stuffed Cod With Lemon Cream Sauce

This elegant herb-stuffed cod delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort. The delicate fish is filled with a fragrant herb mixture, then baked to flaky perfection and topped with a rich lemon cream sauce that complements the mild flavor of the cod beautifully.

Ingredients:

• 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• ½ cup vegetable broth
• ¾ cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon cold water
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon butter
• ¼ cup breadcrumbs

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.

Step 2: In a small bowl, combine minced garlic, half of the chopped herbs, 1 tablespoon olive oil, half the lemon zest, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Make a lengthwise cut in each cod fillet to create a pocket, being careful not to cut all the way through.

Step 4: Stuff each fillet with the herb mixture and place in the prepared baking dish.

Step 5: Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the fish and sprinkle with breadcrumbs.

Step 6: Bake for 15-18 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork.

Step 7: While the fish is baking, prepare the lemon cream sauce. In a saucepan, add vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.

Step 8: Add heavy cream, remaining herbs, lemon juice, and remaining lemon zest to the saucepan. Simmer gently for 3-4 minutes.

Step 9: Mix cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry. Slowly add to the sauce while stirring to thicken.

Step 10: Finish the sauce with butter, salt, and pepper to taste.

Step 11: Remove cod from the oven and drizzle with the lemon cream sauce before serving.

Nutrition:

• Calories: 410 per serving
• Protein: 32g
• Fat: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Sodium: 380mg
• Cholesterol: 145mg
• Fiber: 1g

Final Thoughts

You’ve discovered eight incredible ways to transform an ordinary cod fillet into a dinner worth remembering.

From zesty Mediterranean to spicy Cajun flavors, there’s a perfect recipe waiting for your next mealtime.

Remember, variety is the spice of life, so don’t hesitate to experiment with these diverse flavor profiles.

With quick prep times and delicious results, you’ll never look at cod the same way again.