Easy Lemon Baked Cod

If you’re looking for a fast, flavorful dinner that feels a little fancy without the extra effort, this easy lemon baked cod is it. The fillets bake up flaky with a lemon, buttery crust loaded with garlic and Parmesan. It’s the kind of dinner that makes you feel like you ordered something special at a restaurant, but it only takes 15 minutes start to finish.

Looking for more easy fish recipes? Try our Easy Air Fryer Salmon.

Why My Recipe

• Flaky cod with a flavorful garlic parmesan crust.
• Quick and easy dinner—ready in only 15 minutes!
• Complete the meal with rice and a veggie or a green salad.

It’s easy to turn this dish into a complete meal and can be served over rice with your favorite veggie on the side, or keep it light and serve it with a simple, fresh green salad. It’s an easy way to get dinner on the table quickly and it’s good for you too!

Ingredient Notes

• Cod Fish: Look for 6-ounce portions of fresh or thawed cod. If using frozen, thaw completely and pat dry to remove excess moisture.
• Butter: Make sure it’s softened because you’ll be mixing it with other ingredients. Salted or unsalted is fine.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is what you want for the best melt and flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour: Helps create a slightly thick, spreadable crust.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides the best flavor, but jarred works too.
• Dried Basil: Adds a subtle herbaceous note. Italian seasoning could be used instead for a different flavor twist.
• Onion Powder: Gives depth to the butter mixture. Don’t substitute with fresh onion—it won’t blend as well.
• Dijon Mustard: Adds a little tang and complexity. Yellow mustard can be used if needed, but Dijon is preferred.
• Lemon Juice: Fresh is best for flavor, but you can also use bottled.
• Fresh Parsley (optional): Adds a pop of color and fresh, herby flavor.
• Lemon (optional): Thinly slice and use to garnish if you want to make it pretty.

Buying Cod

When you head to the store to buy your cod, look for firm, white fillets with a mild smell. Avoid pieces that look dull or have a strong fishy odor. Fish shouldn’t smell fishy if it’s good.

If you’re using frozen cod, make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge overnight or under cold running water. Pat it dry before baking to help the crust stick better and ensure even cooking.

Using Other Fish

This lemon-butter topping is delicious on other fish as well. Just keep an eye on cook time: tilapia’s thinner and needs less time (think shave off a couple minutes), while thick cuts like halibut may need a few extra to get flaky and opaque all the way through.

How to Know When It’s Done

When your cod goes from see-through and shiny to solid white and starts flaking, it’s done. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) if you’re using a thermometer. Be careful not to overcook it. Cod is a lean fish and dries out quickly if left in the oven too long.

Serving Suggestions

Rice and Veggies: Simply pair with a side of white or brown steamed rice and a green veggie (we love asparagus or green beans) for a complete meal.

Tacos: Slice it up and throw it in a taco. Add toppings like cabbage, sour cream, guacamole, and some sliced or pickled jalapeños.

Salad or Wrap: Repurpose those leftovers and use in a salad or lettuce wrap.