Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in less than 15 minutes from start to finish.
- Broiling locks in moisture while giving the fish a crisp, flavorful top.
- Uses simple, fresh ingredients for a clean, bright flavor.
- High in protein and low in fat—great for a nutritious meal.
- Pairs beautifully with rice, roasted vegetables, or salad.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Cod fillets (fresh or thawed, about 6 ounces each)
- Olive oil or melted butter
- Garlic (minced)
- Lemon juice and zest
- Paprika
- Salt and black pepper
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Directions
- Preheat the broiler. Adjust the oven rack to about 6 inches from the heat source and preheat the broiler. Line a baking sheet with foil and lightly grease it.
- Prepare the cod. Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Brush both sides with olive oil or melted butter and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Add flavor. In a small bowl, mix minced garlic and lemon juice. Spoon this mixture evenly over the top of each fillet.
- Broil the fish. Place the fillets on the prepared baking sheet and broil for 5–7 minutes, depending on thickness, until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the top is lightly browned.
- Finish and serve. Sprinkle with fresh parsley, add lemon zest, and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
Servings and timing
Serves: 4 people
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 7 minutes
Total time: 12 minutes
Variations
- Herb Butter Cod: Mix softened butter with garlic, parsley, dill, and lemon zest, then spread on top before broiling.
- Spicy Version: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes for heat.
- Parmesan Crust: Sprinkle grated Parmesan on top before broiling for a cheesy crust.
- Mediterranean Style: Add cherry tomatoes, olives, and capers to the baking sheet before broiling.
- Honey Mustard Glaze: Mix honey, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice for a sweet-tangy finish.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the cod in a baking dish, cover loosely with foil, and warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10 minutes or until just heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the fish rubbery.
FAQs
What’s the best type of cod to use?
Fresh or frozen Atlantic or Pacific cod fillets work best. Just ensure they’re fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.
How do I know when the cod is done?
The fish should flake easily with a fork and appear opaque throughout. Internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
Can I use another fish for this recipe?
Yes. Haddock, halibut, tilapia, or pollock are excellent substitutes for cod.
Why is my cod watery?
If you don’t pat the fillets dry before broiling, excess moisture can steam the fish instead of browning it.
Can I marinate the cod beforehand?
A short 15–20 minute marinade in lemon juice, olive oil, and herbs enhances the flavor beautifully.
Should I leave the skin on?
You can. It helps hold the fillet together, but cod skin is thin and can be removed before or after cooking.
How do I prevent the fish from sticking?
Line your baking sheet with foil and lightly oil it, or use nonstick spray before broiling.
Can I add vegetables to the pan?
Yes. Broil thin-sliced vegetables like zucchini, asparagus, or bell peppers alongside the fish for a complete meal.
What sides go best with broiled cod?
Rice pilaf, roasted potatoes, steamed broccoli, or a fresh garden salad complement it perfectly.
Can I freeze cooked cod?
Yes, though texture may change slightly. Cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat gently to maintain moisture.
Conclusion
Broiled Cod is a fast, flavorful, and healthy seafood dish that’s as elegant as it is easy. The quick broiling technique ensures perfectly tender, flaky fish every time, while the lemon-garlic butter adds a bright, savory finish. Ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this simple recipe proves that delicious seafood doesn’t have to be complicated.
PrintBroiled Cod
Broiled Cod is a quick, healthy seafood dish featuring tender, flaky fillets topped with a simple lemon-garlic butter sauce. Broiled to golden perfection, it delivers fresh, bright flavor in under 15 minutes—perfect for a nutritious and elegant meal.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Total Time: 12 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Broiling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each, fresh or thawed)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the broiler and adjust the oven rack to about 6 inches from the heat source. Line a baking sheet with foil and lightly grease it.
- Pat cod fillets dry with paper towels. Brush both sides with olive oil or melted butter and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- In a small bowl, mix minced garlic with lemon juice. Spoon this mixture evenly over the top of each fillet.
- Place the fillets on the prepared baking sheet and broil for 5–7 minutes, depending on thickness, until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the top is lightly golden.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and lemon zest, then serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
Notes
- Patting the fish dry ensures better browning and prevents steaming.
- Broiling time may vary depending on fish thickness—check after 5 minutes.
- Add grated Parmesan for a crispy, cheesy crust.
- Serve with roasted vegetables, rice, or salad for a balanced meal.
- A short marinade in lemon and herbs enhances flavor before broiling.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
