Have you ever pulled baked fish out of the oven only to find it dry, bland, and disappointing? I’ve been there; that’s exactly why I created this Lemon Dill Baked Cod Recipe—a foolproof, flavorful way to turn basic cod fillets into a delicious, restaurant-worthy meal right at home.
With just a few fresh ingredients and 25 minutes of your time, this Lemon Dill Baked Cod Recipe brings together the brightness of lemon and the earthy aroma of dill in a way that truly complements the delicate flavor of cod. And because it’s gently baked, the fish stays perfectly moist and flaky with every bite.
Whether you're cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or want something light and healthy that still feels impressive, this Lemon Dill Baked Cod Recipe delivers; it's quick, it's simple, and it works every single time—even if you're not a seasoned cook.
If you're looking to add more nutritious, protein-rich meals to your weekly dinner menu, give this Lemon Dill Baked Cod Recipe a try; it’s fresh, easy to make, and the kind of dish that might just surprise you with how much flavor it packs in such a short time.
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Dill Baked Cod Recipe
The Lemon Dill Baked Cod Recipe is the answer if you’ve ever struggled with bland or dry fish; cod is wonderfully versatile, but it needs the right touch to shine. This recipe is designed to lock in moisture and bring out incredible flavor with minimal effort.
The pairing of lemon and dill in this Lemon Dill Baked Cod Recipe isn’t just classic—it’s genius. The lemon brightens up the mild fish, while the dill adds a layer of fresh, herbal depth without overpowering. It’s a clean, vibrant flavor that really lets the cod stand out.
Unlike heavy, cream-based fish dishes, the Lemon Dill Baked Cod Recipe keeps things light and healthy; the natural flavors do the talking here. It's a great go-to for a nourishing weeknight dinner.
Plus, this baked cod dish goes with everything; serve it with roasted veggies, rice pilaf, or a fresh salad. And the best part? This Lemon Dill Baked Cod
Jump to:
Ingredients
For the Cod:
- Cod fillets - Fresh cod works best, but thawed frozen fillets are fine too
- Olive oil - Extra virgin adds the best flavor
- Lemons (juiced and zested) - Fresh lemon juice is essential for bright flavor
- Fresh dill, chopped - Dried dill can substitute if needed
- Garlic, minced - Adds aromatic depth
- Salt - Sea salt or kosher salt preferred
- Black pepper - Freshly ground works best
- Paprika - Adds subtle warmth and color
Optional Garnish:
- Butter for extra richness
- Lemon slices for serving
- Fresh dill sprigs
See recipe card for quantities.
Instructions
Prep and Preheat
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper. Pat the cod fillets completely dry with paper towels – this step is crucial for achieving the best texture and preventing excess moisture during baking.
Make the Lemon Dill Marinade
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, chopped dill, salt, pepper, and paprika. The mixture should be well combined and fragrant. Pro Tip: Let the marinade sit for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Marinate and Arrange
- Place the cod fillets in your prepared baking dish and pour the lemon dill mixture over the fish, coating both sides evenly. Let the cod marinate for 10-15 minutes at room temperature, then arrange in a single layer with any remaining marinade poured around the fish.
Bake and Serve
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, depending on fillet thickness. The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches 145°F internal temperature. Let rest for 2-3 minutes, then garnish with fresh lemon slices and dill sprigs. Drizzle any pan juices over the fillets before serving for extra flavor.
- Step 1: Prep and Preheat
Preheat the oven and pat the cod fillets completely dry for the best texture.
- Step 2: Make the Lemon Dill Marinade
Mix lemon juice, dill, garlic, and seasoning into a fragrant marinade.
- Step 3: Marinate and Arrange
Marinate cod in the lemon dill mixture and arrange in a single layer.
- Step 4: Bake and Serve
Bake until flaky, garnish, and drizzle with pan juices before serving.
Hints & Expert Cooking Tips
- Temperature Control: Use an instant-read thermometer for perfect results every time. Cod should reach 145°F internally but no higher.
- Choosing Quality Cod: Look for fillets that are firm, white, and smell like the ocean (not "fishy"). Avoid any pieces with brown spots or dry edges.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can marinate the cod up to 2 hours in advance. Keep it covered in the refrigerator, then bring to room temperature for 10 minutes before baking.
- Pan Sauce Magic: The drippings in the baking dish make an incredible sauce. Whisk in a tablespoon of cold butter after baking for restaurant-quality results.
- Avoiding Dry Fish: The biggest mistake with baked cod recipes is overcooking. Set a timer and check early – it's better to slightly undercook than to overcook white fish.
Recipe Variations & Dietary Modifications
Mediterranean Style
- Add sliced tomatoes, olives, and a sprinkle of oregano for a Greek-inspired version of this cod fish recipe.
Herb-Crusted Version
- Mix panko breadcrumbs with the dill and lemon zest, then press onto the fillets before baking for a crispy top.
Spicy Kick
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for those who like heat.
Keto-Friendly Sides
- Serve over cauliflower rice or with roasted asparagus to keep the meal low-carb.
High-Protein Addition
- Top each fillet with a small amount of feta cheese in the last 3 minutes of baking.
Equipment Recommendations
Essential Tools:
- Glass or ceramic baking dish (9x13 inch) - Ensures even heating and easy cleanup
- Instant-read thermometer - Takes the guesswork out of doneness
- Sharp fillet knife - For any trimming needed
- Citrus zester or microplane - Fresh zest makes a huge difference
Budget-Friendly Alternatives:
- A regular baking sheet works if you don't have a baking dish
- A fork can substitute for a thermometer (fish should flake easily)
- The small holes on a box grater work for zesting lemons
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover baked cod in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The lemon dill flavors actually improve overnight, making leftovers delicious.
Freezing Instructions
- While best fresh, you can freeze cooked cod for up to 2 months. Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap, then place in freezer bags. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating Tips
- Reheat gently in a 300°F oven for 8-10 minutes, or microwave on 50% power to avoid overcooking. Add a splash of lemon juice to refresh the flavors.
Meal Prep Strategy
- This recipe doubles easily for meal prep. Cook a large batch on Sunday and use throughout the week in salads, grain bowls, or as a quick protein addition to any meal.ng for X days/weeks/months.
The Secret That Changed How I Cook Cod Forever
A few years ago, I completely gave up on cooking cod at home; every attempt ended the same—dry, bland, and disappointing. Then one night, during a chat with a friend who swore by coastal home cooking, I learned a simple trick that changed everything: let the lemon dill marinade rest for a few minutes before using it. That tiny tweak? It became the heart of my go-to Lemon Dill Baked Cod Recipe.
This Lemon Dill Baked Cod Recipe changed the way I look at fish dinners. The marinade—zesty lemon, fresh dill, a touch of garlic—brings the cod to life, and gentle baking locks in all that moisture. Ever since, this Lemon Dill Baked Cod Recipe has been a weeknight favorite. If you’ve ever been frustrated by dry cod, this dish just might be the one that wins you back too.
FAQ
What temperature should I bake cod in the oven?
Bake cod at 400°F (200°C) for the best results. This temperature ensures the fish cooks evenly and stays moist while developing light golden edges. Always check that it flakes easily and reaches 145°F internally.
How long can you keep baked cod?
Store baked cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it great for next-day lunches. For best quality, reheat gently.
What is the best cooking technique for cod?
Baking is one of the easiest and healthiest ways to cook cod. It’s gentle, hands-off, and helps the fish stay tender and flaky—especially when paired with a light marinade like in this Lemon Dill Baked Cod Recipe.
How healthy is baked cod?
Baked cod is lean, high in protein, and low in calories and fat, making it a great choice for a balanced diet. It’s also packed with B vitamins and omega-3s, especially when paired with heart-healthy ingredients like lemon and olive oil.
A Flavorful Favorite You’ll Make Again and Again
This Lemon Dill Baked Cod Recipe is proof that healthy meals can be full of flavor. With just a few simple ingredients and 25 minutes, this Lemon Dill Baked Cod Recipe delivers a bright, citrusy dinner that tastes restaurant-worthy. Whether you’re short on time or just craving something light and fresh, the Lemon Dill Baked Cod Recipe brings big flavor—without the fuss.What I love most about this Lemon Dill Baked Cod Recipe is how reliably delicious it is; the lemon and dill combo never misses, and the cod comes out perfectly flaky every single time. If you’re new to cooking fish, don’t worry—this one’s beginner-friendly but impressive enough for guests too.
Looking for more fresh and feel-good meals? You’ll also love my Zucchini Noodle Alfredo Recipe for a low-carb creamy fix or the ever-popular La Scala Chopped Salad Recipe that’s packed with flavor and crunch; they pair beautifully with the cod, or work on their own for lunch the next day.
Give this Lemon Dill Baked Cod Recipe a try tonight! Let me know how it turns out, and if you get creative with it, I’d love to hear what you came up with. Don’t forget to bookmark it for next time—and rate it if it hits the spot!
Related
Looking for other recipes like this? Try these:
Pairing
These are my favorite dishes to serve with Lemon Dill Baked Cod Recipe
Lemon Dill Baked Cod Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Glass baking dish (9x13 inch) 9x13 inch size; helps cook fish evenly
- 1 Parchment paper Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy
- 1 Mixing bowl Medium-sized; for whisking the marinade
- 1 Microplane or citrus zester For zesting fresh lemon easily
- 1 Instant-read thermometer Ensures cod is perfectly cooked at 145°F internal
Ingredients
- 4 fillets cod 6 oz each, fresh or thawed
- 3 tablespoons olive oil extra virgin
- 2 large lemons juiced and zested
- 3 tablespoons fresh dill chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon salt sea salt or kosher
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
- 0.25 teaspoon paprika adds color and mild warmth
- lemon slices for serving (optional garnish)
- fresh dill sprigs for garnish (optional)
- butter for extra richness (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C); line baking dish with parchment.
- Pat cod fillets dry with paper towels.
- In a bowl, whisk olive oil, lemon juice, zest, garlic, dill, salt, pepper, paprika.
- Pour marinade over cod; coat both sides and marinate for 10–15 mins.
- Bake for 12–15 mins until fish flakes and reaches 145°F internal temp.
- Let rest for 2–3 mins; serve with lemon slices, dill, and pan juices.
Notes
- Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Leave a Reply