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Garlic Herb Baked Cod Recipe

4.8 from 61 reviews

This Garlic Herb Baked Cod recipe offers a simple, flavorful way to enjoy tender cod fillets infused with aromatic garlic, fresh herbs, and a hint of paprika. The cod is baked to perfection with a buttery herb mixture and lemon slices, resulting in a moist and flaky dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Fish

  • 4 (6-ounce) cod filets

Compound Butter Mixture

  • 3 tablespoons butter, softened
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons parsley, chives, thyme or other herbs, finely chopped
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Additional

  • 1 lemon, thinly sliced

Instructions

  1. Place the cod. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the cod filets in a baking dish in a single layer to prepare for baking.
  2. Stir the compound butter. In a small bowl, thoroughly mix the softened butter, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped herbs, paprika, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper until well combined.
  3. Spread it on the cod. Evenly distribute the compound butter mixture on top of each cod filet, ensuring each piece is generously coated with the flavorful blend.
  4. Add the lemon. Lay the thin lemon slices both on top of and underneath the cod filets in the baking dish, which adds brightness and subtle acidity.
  5. Bake the cod. Bake the fillets in the preheated oven for 13 to 15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Just before serving, spoon the flavorful juices from the baking dish over the cod for extra moisture and taste.

Notes

  • Make sure to pat the fish very dry! This helps the butter mixture stick and prevents excess moisture that could steam the fish instead of baking it.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave in 30-second intervals or in a 300°F oven until just warmed through.
  • You can freeze the cooked cod for up to 3 months, although the texture is best when enjoyed fresh.

Keywords: baked cod, garlic herb cod, easy fish recipe, healthy cod, baked fish, cod fillets recipe, lemon cod, quick dinner