Lemon Herb Baked Cod is a quick, light, and flavorful dinner that comes together in under 25 minutes.
Packed with high-quality protein and healthy fats from ghee or butter, this low-carb, nutrient-rich meal supports a balanced diet.
Its bright lemon and fragrant basil make it satisfying for everyday meals while keeping preparation simple and fuss-free.
25-Minute Lemon Herb Baked Cod
Equipment
- 1 Large Baking Sheet
- Parchment paper (to line baking sheet)
- 1 small bowl (for melted ghee or butter)
- Knife and cutting board
- Oven mitts
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds cod fillet
- 2 tablespoons ghee or butter melted
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1 lemon sliced
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the cod cooks evenly and maintains a tender, flaky texture. While the oven warms up, you can prepare your ingredients, so everything is ready to assemble. Preheating is crucial for a perfectly baked fish that isn’t dry or overcooked.
- Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. The parchment prevents the fish from sticking, makes cleanup effortless, and allows the cod to cook evenly without losing moisture. Make sure the sheet is big enough to comfortably fit the cod fillet in a single layer so that it cooks uniformly.
- Position the Cod: Place your cod fillet on the parchment paper with the skin side down (if it still has skin). This orientation helps protect the delicate flesh during baking, ensuring it stays moist. Make sure the fillet lays flat and isn’t folded or crowded; this will help it cook evenly from edge to center.
- Melt the Ghee or Butter: In a small bowl, gently melt 2 tablespoons of ghee or butter. You can do this on the stovetop over low heat or in a microwave in short 10–15 second intervals. Once melted, the ghee or butter will help the seasonings stick to the fish and add a rich, savory flavor.
- Season the Fish: Drizzle the melted ghee or butter evenly over the cod fillet, ensuring every inch is lightly coated. Sprinkle a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, followed by 1 teaspoon of dried basil. This combination adds a fragrant herbal note and a subtle depth of flavor to the mild cod.
- Add Lemon Slices: Cut 1 lemon into thin slices and place them evenly on top of the cod. The citrus slices infuse the fish with a bright, fresh flavor while baking, creating a delicate balance with the richness of the ghee or butter. The lemon also keeps the cod moist and adds a light aroma that fills the kitchen.
- Bake the Cod: Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven. Bake the cod for 13–15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillet. You’ll know it’s done when the fish turns opaque, flakes easily with a fork, and the internal temperature reaches around 145°F (63°C). Avoid overbaking, as this can dry out the delicate fish.
- Remove and Serve: Carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven using oven mitts. If desired, lift off the lemon slices before serving for a cleaner presentation. Serve the cod immediately while it’s hot and flaky, pairing it with your choice of sides such as steamed vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad.
- Optional Finishing Touches: For extra flavor and visual appeal, you can drizzle a little more melted ghee or a splash of fresh lemon juice over the cod before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill if you like. These small additions elevate the dish, making it feel restaurant-quality while still being easy to prepare.
Notes
- This recipe works well with any firm, white fish, such as tilapia, halibut, or swai.
- For even cooking, ensure the cod fillet is of uniform thickness; you can gently pat or trim if needed.
- Use parchment paper or a non-stick baking sheet to prevent the fish from sticking and to make cleanup easier.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: add garlic powder, paprika, or fresh herbs for extra flavor.
- Lemon slices enhance flavor and moisture but can be removed before serving if you prefer a cleaner presentation.
- Serve immediately after baking for the best texture; overcooked fish becomes dry and less flavorful.
Chef’s Secrets For Perfect Cod
Achieving perfectly baked cod comes down to a few small but impactful techniques.
First, preheating the oven ensures even cooking and preserves the fish’s moisture.
Thin or uniform fillets cook more consistently, so consider trimming or gently pressing the thicker parts of the cod.
Using ghee or butter instead of oil adds richness and helps seasonings adhere, creating a glossy, flavorful finish.
Finally, placing lemon slices directly on the fillet while baking allows the citrus to infuse the fish without overpowering it, resulting in a delicate balance of tang and aroma.
Serving Suggestions To Impress Everyone
Lemon Herb Baked Cod pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and garnishes.
For a light, healthy dinner, serve it alongside steamed green vegetables such as asparagus, broccoli, or green beans.
Roasted potatoes, quinoa, or cauliflower rice make satisfying, low-carb accompaniments.
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or dill adds color and brightness, while an extra drizzle of lemon juice just before serving enhances freshness.
For a more indulgent touch, top with a few capers or a spoonful of herbed yogurt for a subtle creamy finish.
Storage Tips To Keep Fresh Flavor
Cooked cod is best enjoyed immediately, but leftovers can be stored safely for up to 2 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Allow the fish to cool slightly before sealing to prevent condensation, which can make the fillet soggy.
Reheat gently in a low oven (around 300°F) for 5–8 minutes or in a microwave at low power to avoid overcooking.
Lemon slices should be removed before storing, as prolonged contact can make the fish overly acidic.
For longer storage, consider freezing baked cod in a tightly wrapped container for up to 1 month.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other types of fish?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with any firm, white fish like tilapia, halibut, or swai.
Adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the thickness of the fillet.
2. Do I have to use ghee?
No, you can substitute unsalted butter or even olive oil. Ghee provides a slightly nutty flavor and healthy fats, but the dish will remain delicious with alternatives.
3. Can I prepare this ahead of time?
You can season the cod and place lemon slices on top a few hours ahead, storing it in the refrigerator.
However, it’s best to bake just before serving to maintain optimal texture and flavor.
4. How can I tell when cod is done?
The fish should turn opaque and flake easily with a fork.
If using a thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). Avoid overcooking to keep the fillet tender.
5. Can I add more flavorings?
Yes! Garlic powder, paprika, thyme, or fresh herbs can all be added to enhance flavor.
Be careful with strong spices, as cod has a delicate flavor that should remain the star of the dish.
