Name: Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 fillets cod (6 oz each); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 whole lemon, zested and juiced; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional); 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; as needed lemon slices, for serving

Jump to Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for an easy weeknight dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor, then you’re going to fall in love with my Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic. This dish has quickly become a favorite in my kitchen, thanks to its light, flaky fish, zesty lemon, and fragrant garlic that combine for an irresistibly bright and comforting meal. Did you know that cod has been a staple in coastal kitchens for centuries? With this recipe, you’ll see why! It comes together with minimal prep and bakes up in no time, making it perfect for busy families or anyone looking for a fuss-free meal after a long day at work. It reminds me a lot of my Lemon Herb Baked Salmon, another popular recipe on the blog that readers can’t get enough of! Both are packed with fresh flavor, quick to make, and a total hit at dinnertime. So grab a baking dish, round up your ingredients, and get ready to turn a simple piece of cod into something truly special. Your taste buds (and your family) will thank you!

What is Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic?

So, what exactly is Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic? Honestly, the name says it all—but don’t you wonder who first paired the mighty cod with such zesty companions? Maybe they knew that “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach” and couldn’t resist this combo! Imagine flaky white cod, bathed in garlicky olive oil and sprinkled with bright lemon zest—could there be a more uplifting dinner? This dish is all about letting fresh, simple flavors truly shine. If you’re ready for a meal that’s equal parts effortless and impressive, give this recipe a go tonight. Your kitchen will smell amazing—and you just might start a new dinner tradition!

Why You’ll Love This

There are so many reasons to bring this Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic into your dinner rotation! First, the standout feature has to be how the citrusy lemon and rich, aromatic garlic infuse the delicate cod, resulting in a mouthwatering, restaurant-quality meal in under 30 minutes. Second, making it at home is a huge money saver compared to ordering seafood at a restaurant—and you get to control the freshness of every bite. Finally, it’s the toppings like chopped fresh parsley and extra lemon slices that make it extra special, adding color and a burst of flavor. If you’re a fan of my Easy Baked Tilapia, this cod recipe is equally approachable and satisfying, but with its own unique zing. Ready to win dinnertime? Give this simple, hearty recipe a try tonight and let it become your new weeknight staple!

How to Make

Quick Overview

This Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic is about as effortless as it gets, yet still delivers amazing flavor. With just one baking dish and a handful of fresh ingredients, you can whip up a healthy, satisfying meal in about 25 minutes (including prep and bake time). The cod bakes up beautifully moist and flaky, thanks to a lemony olive oil marinade that takes just seconds to mix together. There’s nothing tricky here—just wholesome ingredients, simple steps, and a delicious payoff.

Ingredients

4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, zested and juiced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Lemon slices, for serving

Directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a medium baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix until thoroughly combined.
Arrange the cod fillets in your prepared baking dish, spacing them out so they cook evenly. Use a spoon to drizzle the lemon and garlic mixture over each fillet, making sure to coat the fish well.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the cod is opaque all the way through and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your fish.
Remove the baking dish from the oven. Sprinkle the fillets generously with freshly chopped parsley, then top with lemon slices for a final pop of color and tang. Serve immediately with your favorite sides!

What to Serve With

Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and drinks. For a classic touch, serve it over fluffy rice pilaf or with oven-roasted potatoes to soak up the zesty sauce. If you’re craving greens, a simple mixed salad with a light vinaigrette or sautéed spinach makes a refreshing companion. Crusty bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover juices, and a chilled white wine or sparkling lemonade rounds out the meal. For a cozy weeknight, add quick steamed asparagus or green beans for color and crunch.

Top Tips for Perfecting

Here’s how to get the best results every time:

Use the freshest cod fillets you can find for the cleanest flavor—fresh or high-quality frozen both work well.
If cod isn’t available, swap it out for haddock, tilapia, or another mild white fish for a similar taste and texture.
Don’t skip the lemon zest; it boosts the citrus aroma and flavor!
Be careful not to overcook—the cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork and turns opaque.
If you like a touch of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade.
For a dairy-free version, this recipe is already perfect as written. If you prefer a richer dish, add a few pats of butter before baking.
Avoid crowding the fillets in the pan, so the fish bakes evenly and doesn’t steam.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Store any leftover cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If you need to keep it longer, wrap the portions tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. To reheat, place the cod in a covered baking dish and warm in a 325°F (160°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until just heated through. Avoid using the microwave if possible, as the fish can dry out quickly. If reheating from frozen, let the cod thaw overnight in the fridge before gently reheating. For best results, enjoy freshly baked!

FAQs

Can I use frozen cod fillets?
Yes! Frozen cod works great—just be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before baking.

Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?
Yes, the recipe as written contains no dairy. You can add a little butter for richness if desired, but olive oil does the trick.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can marinate the cod in the lemon-garlic mixture for up to 2 hours in advance, then bake right before serving for ultra-fresh flavor.

Does this recipe work with other types of fish?
Absolutely—haddock, tilapia, or halibut are all great white fish substitutes.

What should I do if my fillets are very thick or thin?
Adjust baking time accordingly—thicker fillets may need up to 18 minutes, while thinner pieces might be done closer to 10.

Conclusion

Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic is the perfect simple-yet-elegant meal for any night of the week. With its bright, fresh flavors and foolproof cooking method, it’s sure to win over family and friends alike. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for a quick, healthy dinner idea, this recipe delivers on every front. Try it alongside some of my other favorite easy seafood recipes, and don’t forget to share your delicious results! Happy cooking!