Perfect Ten Baked Cod
If you’re craving flaky, tender cod with maximum flavor and minimal fuss, this Perfect Ten Baked Cod recipe is your new go-to. With a balanced blend of herbs, spices, and a touch of lemon, it’s a foolproof way to serve a gourmet-style dish at home.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
500g cod fillets, skin removed
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Optional additions: cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced onions, or bell peppers for extra color and flavor
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven & Prepare
Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F).
Line a baking tray with parchment paper or lightly grease with olive oil.
Step 2: Season the Cod
In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, smoked paprika, thyme (or rosemary), lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Rub this mixture evenly over the cod fillets.
Step 3: Bake the Cod
Place the seasoned cod fillets on the prepared baking tray.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, depending on fillet thickness. The cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork.
Step 4: Serve
Transfer the cod to plates.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Optional: drizzle extra lemon juice over the top for a fresh, zesty finish.
Tips for Perfect Baked Cod
Uniform fillets: Use cod fillets of similar size to ensure even cooking.
Avoid overcooking: Cod is delicate; baking too long can make it dry.
Add veggies: Roast cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers alongside for a complete meal.
Boost flavor: Add a splash of white wine or a sprinkle of capers before baking.
Why This Recipe Works
Healthy & Low-Calorie: Cod is lean, high in protein, and perfect for nutritious meals.
Quick & Effortless: Prep and bake in under 25 minutes.
Flavorful & Aromatic: Smoked paprika, garlic, and fresh herbs enhance the natural taste of the fish.
Versatile: Ideal for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or meal prep.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with roasted potatoes, quinoa, or steamed vegetables for a balanced plate.
Pair with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.
Add a light side salad with lemon vinaigrette for freshness.
Meta Description (SEO-Friendly):
Make the Perfect Ten Baked Cod—flaky, flavorful, and healthy. Quick, easy, and ideal for weeknight dinners or gourmet-style meals at home.
Rich Snippet Idea:
Recipe Type: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean / European
Prep Time: 5–10 minutes
Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
Servings: 2–3
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 sleeve buttery round crackers (such as Ritz®), crushed
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 pound thick-cut cod loin
- 1/2 lemon, juiced
- 1/4 cup dry white wine
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped green onion
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
Place 2 tablespoons butter in a microwave-safe bowl; melt in microwave on high, about 30 seconds. Stir buttery round crackers into melted butter.
Place remaining 2 tablespoons butter in a 7x11-inch baking dish. Melt in the preheated oven, 1 to 3 minutes. Remove dish from oven.
Coat both sides of cod in melted butter in the baking dish.
Bake cod in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Remove from oven; top with lemon juice, wine, and cracker mixture. Place back in oven and bake until fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork, about 10 more minutes.
Garnish baked cod with parsley and green onion. Serve with lemon wedges. Enjoy it !






