This baked cod recipe is an easy and foolproof recipe for perfectly flaky fish, every time — hands-down one of the most reliable ways to cook fish at home. With just cod, olive oil, lemon slices, salt, pepper, and if I’m feeling fancy, a sprinkle of breadcrumbs. That’s it. It comes together in minutes using pantry basics. No fuss, no elaborate prep, just beautifully tender, melt-in-your-mouth fish that tastes far more luxurious than the effort required.
It’s the kind of dish that works for everything from a cozy weeknight dinner to an effortlessly elegant weekend meal. Ready in 30 minutes, there’s no need to cover, marinate, or overthink it — just season, bake, and serve.
Simple Ingredients for Baked Cod
Here’s a quick look at the ingredients I keep on hand when I make this oven-baked cod:
- Cod fillet: I use about 500 g for two generous portions.
- Olive oil: Just enough to drizzle. I always go for a heat resistant good-quality extra virgin.
- Sea salt & black pepper: Simple seasoning that lets the fish shine.
- Lemon slices – Adds a bright, fresh note.
- Breadcrumbs (optional) – When I want a golden, slightly crisp topping.
Tip: Sometimes I swap the olive oil for a few pats of butter if I want something richer. It melts beautifully over the fish while it bakes.
Baked Cod Fillet – It’s That Easy!
This baked cod fillet recipe is all about ease. Just a few ingredients, minimal prep, and no complicated steps — perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something light and satisfying.
Start by prepping the cod and seasoning it simply with olive oil, sea salt, and black pepper. If you’d like a little extra texture, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top. Then, all that’s left is to pop it in the oven and bake until perfectly tender and flaky.
That’s it — simple, clean, and full of flavour.
Find exact measurements and baking time below in the printable recipe card.
FAQs
Cod typically bakes for about 25–30 minutes at 350°F / 175°C, depending on the thickness of the fillet. It’s done when the flesh flakes easily with a fork.
Use a high-quality olive oil or a few pats of grass-fed butter over the fish before baking. This locks in moisture and enhances the flavour.
Bake it uncovered to allow gentle roasting and prevent it from becoming soggy.
Why You’ll Love This Baked Cod
- Super easy, super quick: Ready in just 30 minutes with minimal prep.
- Minimal ingredients: Just cod, olive oil, and pantry staples — nothing complicated.
- Healthy and light: A lean, high-protein dinner that’s naturally gluten-free.
- Versatile: Add herbs, spices, or breadcrumbs depending on your mood.
- Pairs with anything: Great with risotto, roasted vegetables, or fresh salads.
What to Serve with Baked Cod
Before serving, be sure to spoon some of the flavorful pan juices over the cod for an extra boost of moisture and richness. This simple baked cod fillet pairs beautifully with a variety of fresh, seasonal sides.
For something light and refreshing, serve it alongside this crisp and vibrant green bean tomato salad. Craving a summery twist? This peach Panzanella bread salad brings juicy sweetness and rustic charm that complements the delicate fish perfectly. It’s also delicious served with a creamy risotto, especially something citrusy like this leek risotto with lemon and herbs, or this lemon-infused fennel risotto with cherry tomatoes. Or go with a tray of oven-roasted vegetables — broccolini and asparagus tossed with olive oil and sea salt are great choices.
Easy Baked Cod Fillet
Simple recipe for baked cod fillet with olive oil and herbs — light, healthy, and ready in 30 minutes. Just 3 ingredients plus salt and pepper for a simple, flavourful and foolproof dinner.
Ingredients
- 500 g cod fillet (2 pieces)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, plus more for greasing the baking dish
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Method
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Preheat the oven to 350°F / 175°C.
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Lightly grease a small baking dish with olive oil.
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Season the underside of the cod with salt and pepper, then place it in the dish.
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Drizzle the top of the fillet with olive oil and season again with salt and pepper. Add lemon slices on top.
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Bake uncovered for about 30 minutes, or until the fish is tender and flakes easily with a fork. Serve right away, spooning over some of the flavourful pan juices for extra richness, if desired. Enjoy!
Notes
- Prep Tip: To save time and ensure a smooth texture, ask your fishmonger to remove any bones from the fillet. Or, before cooking, gently run your fingers along the surface of the fish to feel for and remove any remaining pin bones.
- Optional Enhancements: For a richer flavour, feel free to swap the olive oil with butter. A topping of 2–4 tablespoons of finely ground breadcrumbs adds a subtle crunch and a golden finish.
- Serving Idea: For an easy all-in-one oven meal, roast broccolini or asparagus on the bottom rack while the cod bakes. Just toss the veggies in olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast until tender. Don’t forget to spoon the flavourful pan juices over the fish just before serving, as it pulls everything together perfectly.
For a relaxing atmosphere in the kitchen I recommend my personal Elle Republic: Chilled Out Kitchen Tunes Playlist on Spotify.
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