Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With minimal preparation and a short baking time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful: The Cajun garlic butter sauce infuses the cod with a rich, spicy, and savory taste.
- Healthy: Cod is a lean source of protein, rich in vitamins and minerals, and contains less mercury compared to other white fish.
- Versatile: Pairs well with various side dishes like roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Cod filets (preferably skinless)
- Salt and pepper
Cajun Garlic Butter Sauce:
- Butter (melted)
- Olive oil
- Garlic cloves (minced)
- Cajun seasoning
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare Baking Dish: Place the cod filets in a 9x13 inch baking dish and season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Make Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, and Cajun seasoning until well combined.
- Apply Sauce: Evenly spread the Cajun garlic butter sauce over the cod filets, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the fish becomes opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to control the heat. For a milder flavor, use less seasoning or opt for a mild Cajun blend.
- Herb Addition: Add fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to the sauce for extra flavor.
- Citrus Twist: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the cod before baking to add a bright, citrusy note.
- Alternative Fish: This recipe works well with other white fish such as tilapia or haddock.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftover cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the cod in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking to avoid overcooking.
FAQs
What is the best type of cod to use for this recipe?
Fresh, wild-caught cod is ideal for its firm texture and mild flavor, but frozen cod filets that have been properly thawed can also be used.
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but be cautious with additional salt, as Cajun seasoning and salted butter may already contain salt.
Is there a substitute for Cajun seasoning?
Creole seasoning can be used as a substitute, or you can make a homemade blend using paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, thyme, and oregano.
How can I tell when the cod is fully cooked?
The cod is done when it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
Can I grill the cod instead of baking it?
Yes, grilling is an excellent alternative. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and cook the cod for about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on thickness.
What sides pair well with this dish?
Consider serving the cod with roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or a fresh green salad.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Yes, the Cajun garlic butter sauce can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before using.
Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?
Yes, this baked cod recipe is low in carbohydrates and fits well into a low-carb or keto diet plan.
How do I prevent the cod from drying out?
Ensure not to overcook the cod. Baking at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 minutes typically yields moist and tender fish. Using a sauce also helps retain moisture.
Can I add vegetables to the baking dish?
Yes, adding quick-cooking vegetables like cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers can make this a one-pan meal. Just ensure the vegetables are cut into small pieces to cook evenly with the fish.
Conclusion
This Baked Cajun Garlic Butter Cod is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that brings together the mild sweetness of cod with the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning and garlic butter. It's a perfect choice for those seeking a quick, flavorful, and healthy meal. Enjoy this savory baked cod with your favorite sides for a satisfying dining experience.
Baked Cajun Garlic Butter Cod
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 Servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Baked Cajun Garlic Butter Cod is a quick and flavorful seafood dish featuring tender cod filets coated in a rich, spicy Cajun garlic butter sauce. Ready in just 15 minutes, this easy, protein-packed meal is perfect for busy weeknights and pairs well with rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Ingredients
For the Cod:
- 6 cod filets (skinless, fresh or thawed)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
For the Cajun Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 4 tbsp butter (melted)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
Instructions
-
Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
-
Prepare the Baking Dish
- Place the cod filets in a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Lightly season the fish with salt and pepper.
-
Make the Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, and Cajun seasoning.
-
Coat the Cod
- Evenly spread the Cajun garlic butter sauce over the cod filets.
-
Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork (internal temperature of 145°F/63°C).
-
Serve
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme, if desired.
Notes
- Adjust spice level: Use less Cajun seasoning for a milder taste.
- Add citrus flavor: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the cod before baking.
- Alternative fish: Swap cod for tilapia, haddock, or halibut.
- Make it a one-pan meal: Add cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers to the baking dish.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
