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Lemon Garlic Baked Cod

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This easy lemon garlic baked cod recipe features flaky, tender fish infused with bright citrus and mellow roasted garlic. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s healthy, comforting, and ready in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each), skinless and boneless
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 large lemons, thinly sliced (plus extra for serving)
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley or 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Lemon wedges (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Pat cod fillets dry with paper towels. Sprinkle both sides with salt and pepper.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  4. Place half of the lemon slices on the bottom of a baking dish.
  5. Lay cod fillets on top of the lemon layer.
  6. Pour marinade evenly over the fillets, spreading garlic bits as needed. Top with remaining lemon slices.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, until cod flakes easily with a fork and is opaque.
  8. Check for doneness by inserting a fork into the thickest part of a fillet. If needed, bake for an additional 2-3 minutes, checking every minute.
  9. Optional: Broil for 1-2 minutes at the end for extra color (watch closely).
  10. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra lemon wedges. Serve immediately.

Notes

Patting the cod dry is key for flakiness. Layer lemon slices under and over the fish for maximum flavor. Cod cooks quickly—avoid overbaking for best texture. For dairy-free, omit butter or use vegan butter. Broil briefly for extra color if desired. Cod can be substituted with haddock, pollock, or tilapia.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon garlic cod, baked fish, easy cod recipe, healthy dinner, weeknight meal, gluten-free, dairy-free option, seafood, flaky cod, oven baked cod

Find it online: https://norasfoods.com/lemon-garlic-baked-cod-recipe-easy-flaky-fish-for-dinner/