Baked Cod: the best recipe for the fast healthy fish dinner

For an easy dinner you can have ready in 15 minutes, it's time to try baked cod! You only need 6 ingredients for this simple recipe, and many of them you might already have in your kitchen. Baked cod is fresh and mild-tasting, with the subtlest hint of spice, thanks to a light sprinkling of cayenne pepper. Baking the cod in the oven keeps it moist, while the light seasonings accent rather than overwhelm the fish. Baked cod is delicious in its simplicity and so effortless to prepare, it makes a great choice for a busy weeknight.

How to Make Baked Cod

Preheat your oven to 400°F.

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the cod fillets on the sheet. Season the fillets with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and cayenne.

Bake the cod for 10 to 12 minutes. Remove the fillets from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve.

Is Frozen Cod Just as Good as Fresh?

While fresh cod has a slightly better taste, you can just as easily use frozen cod. If opting for frozen, let the cod thaw to room temperature before you bake it. Be sure to pat it dry before cooking.

What is the Correct Temperature to Bake Cod?

400°F is the ideal temperature for baking cod. It only takes 10 to 12 minutes in the oven, with thicker fillets needing a few minutes extra. Once you hit the 10-minute mark, check the cod for doneness and avoid overcooking the fish.

What Goes Well with Garlic Baked Cod?

There are plenty of simple, healthy side dishes to serve with baked cod. Roast vegetables are always a good choice, but salads, potatoes, and rice make excellent options as well.

How to Store and Reheat Baked Cod 

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They'll last about 2 to 4 days. Frozen baked cod will last up to 1 month in the freezer.

To reheat cooked fish, it's best to go low and slow. Preheat your oven to 275°F. Place the fillets on a wire rack over a baking tray. Cover the fish with foil and heat until their internal temperature reads 125 to 130°F. For smaller fillets, this is about 15 minutes or so.

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F.

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the cod fillets on the sheet. Season the fillets with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and cayenne.

Bake the cod for 10 to 12 minutes. Remove the fillets from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve.