Looking for a quick and tasty dinner idea? Broiled cod might be the best choice!
It’s a simple, healthy meal that comes together in just a few minutes.
If you are new to cooking or a seasoned pro, this easy recipe will make your dinner time stress-free and delicious.
Plus, it’s perfect for those who want a low-effort yet flavorful dish.
With a few basic ingredients and a broiler, you will have a meal that’s light, satisfying, and packed with flavor.
Let’s get started with this easy broiled cod recipe!
Ingredients Required for Broiled Cod
INGREDIENT | QUANTITY |
---|---|
Fresh cod fillets | 2 fillets (about 6 oz each) |
Salt | To taste |
Pepper | To taste |
Parsley | 1 tsp, chopped |
Old Bay seasoning | 1 tsp |
Garlic clove | 1, minced |
Lemon juice | 1 tbsp |
Butter | 1 tbsp, melted |
How to Make Broiled Cod Like a Pro?
These simple steps will help you make a delicious broiled cod in no time:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to broil. Broiling is a high-heat cooking method, so it is important that the oven is fully heated before placing the cod in.
This should take about 5 to 10 minutes. Setting the oven to broil will ensure that the heat comes from the top, creating a crisp, golden finish on the fish.
Make sure the oven rack is positioned about 6 inches below the broiler for perfect results.
Step 2: Prepare the Sheet Tray and Cod Fillets
Take a baking sheet and line it with aluminum foil. This makes cleanup much easier after cooking, especially when working with butter and garlic.
Place your fresh cod fillets on the sheet, making sure they are spaced evenly apart. If the fillets are too close, they may not cook evenly.
Pat the cod fillets dry with a paper towel before seasoning to ensure the butter and spices stick well to the fish.
Step 3: Make the Seasoning Paste
In a small bowl, gather all your seasoning ingredients. Start by adding a pinch of salt and pepper for basic seasoning.
Then sprinkle in chopped parsley and Old Bay seasoning, which will add depth and flavor to the cod. Next, mince the garlic clove finely and add it to the bowl.
Finally, squeeze in lemon juice to give the paste a fresh, tangy kick. Mix all the ingredients together until they form a smooth, spreadable paste.
You want it to have a thick, paste-like texture so it sticks to the fish.
Step 4: Spread the Paste on the Cod
Now, take the paste you just made and spread it evenly over the top of each cod fillet.
You can use a spoon or a small spatula for this. Make sure every bit of the fish is covered with the seasoning so it absorbs all the flavors while broiling.
Do not be afraid to use a generous amount of the paste, as it will melt into the fish and create a delicious layer of flavor as it cooks.
The combination of garlic, butter, and lemon will create a mouthwatering aroma.
Step 5: Broil the Cod
Once the paste is spread on the cod fillets, place the baking sheet under the preheated broiler. Broil for about 5 minutes, but keep a close eye on it.
The fish should start turning opaque and flaky. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of your fillets.
If the fillets are thicker, they may need a bit more time.
Do not worry if the garlic and butter on top start to turn golden brown; that is exactly what you want for flavor!
If you are unsure, gently press the fish with a fork to check if it flakes easily.
Step 6: Serve the Cod
Once the cod is finished broiling and is flaky, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven.
Let it cool for a minute or two before transferring the fillets to a plate.
The fish will have absorbed all the seasoning and should be moist and flavorful on the inside with a crisp, golden crust on the outside.
Serve the cod immediately while it is still hot.
For a more complete meal, pair it with your favorite sides like steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a light salad.
Check out the video below for a visual guide on how to make this delicious broiled cod:
Quick Tips for Perfect Broiled Cod Every Time
These tips will help you get perfectly cooked cod every time:
- The cooking time may change depending on how thick your cod fillets are. Thicker fillets may need a little more time, so be sure to check often. The cod should flake easily when it is done.
- After broiling, you can add a little extra fresh parsley or lemon zest on top. This gives the fish a fresh, flavorful boost!
- Broiling cooks fast, so stay close by to keep an eye on it. Garlic and butter can burn quickly, so make sure to check the cod regularly to avoid burning the top.
Some Dietary-Friendly Options
These small changes will make your broiled cod healthier and suitable for different dietary needs:
- Low-Carb Options: If you are looking for a low-carb meal, try serving your cod with sides like steamed broccoli or cauliflower rice. These options are healthy and keep the meal light.
- Healthy Fats: Instead of using butter, you can swap it with olive oil. It is a lighter, healthier fat and still gives great flavor to the cod.
- Diabetes-Friendly: For a diabetes-friendly version, use low-sodium or salt-free seasoning. You can also be mindful of how much lemon juice you add, as it can sometimes increase the acidity in the dish.
Broiled cod proves that healthy eating doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. This versatile fish adapts beautifully to whatever flavors you love most, from zesty herbs to bold spices. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, this recipe deserves a spot in your regular dinner rotation.