Baked Cod with Lemon is a light and healthy dish. The fish is tender and flaky, topped with a fresh lemon flavor that brightens every bite. Perfect for a simple yet tasty meal.
I used to think cooking fish was hard, but this recipe makes it so easy. Now I keep lemon and cod ready for a quick dinner fix!
I like to serve it with a side of veggies or rice. It’s a healthy choice and I feel good eating something fresh and full of flavor.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Cod: I use fresh or frozen cod for a flaky, mild-tasting fish. If you prefer a budget-friendly option, try pollock or tilapia — they work well and are easy to find.
Lemon: Fresh lemons give bright, tangy flavor. If you’re out, bottled lemon juice works in a pinch, but fresh really brightens the dish.
Olive oil: Use high-quality olive oil for a rich taste and good texture. You can swap it with melted butter if you prefer a richer flavor or want a different richness.
Garlic: Minced garlic adds aroma and depth. Fresh garlic is best, but garlic powder can be used if needed; just cut back to 1/3 of the amount.
How do I make sure the baked cod doesn’t dry out?
To keep fish moist, avoid overcooking. Bake at 400°F and check for doneness at 12-15 minutes. Fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork. Use a meat thermometer—aim for 145°F for perfect moistness.
- Set a timer at 12 minutes when baking.
- Check for flakiness, not just color.
- If it’s not flaky, give it a few more minutes, but don’t overdo it.
How to Make Baked Cod with Lemon?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fish
- 4 cod fillets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Lemon Sauce
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
How Much Time Will You Need?
10 minutes prep + 15 minutes cooking + 0 minutes rest = 25 minutes total
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the oven and fish
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the cod fillets dry. Season with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Arrange the fillets
Place the fillets in a baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil. Top with lemon slices.
3. Make the lemon sauce
In a small saucepan, melt butter. Add lemon juice and minced garlic. Cook for 2 minutes, then remove from heat.
4. Bake the fish
Pour the lemon sauce over the fillets. Bake for 12-15 minutes until fish flakes easily with a fork.
5. Serve
Set the baked cod on plates. Garnish with extra lemon slices if desired. Enjoy your meal!
