Baked Blackened Cod is a healthy, flavorful dish featuring tender cod fillets coated in a spicy blackened seasoning blend. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, and the baking method keeps it light and delicious. Serve this smoky, spicy cod with your favorite sides for a satisfying meal that’s full of flavor.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent the fish from sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Blackened Seasoning
- In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
Step 3: Season the Cod
- Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
- Rub each fillet with olive oil on both sides.
- Sprinkle the blackened seasoning evenly over both sides of the fillets, pressing gently to help the seasoning adhere.
Step 4: Bake the Cod
- Place the seasoned cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and is opaque in the center.
Step 5: Serve
- Remove the cod from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes.
- Serve the baked blackened cod with lemon wedges for a burst of freshness. Enjoy!
Cooking Tips & Notes
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper. For extra heat, add a bit more cayenne or use hot paprika.
- Pat the Fish Dry: Patting the cod dry before seasoning helps the seasoning adhere better and prevents excess moisture during baking.
- Cooking Time: The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your cod fillets. Check for doneness by ensuring the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Variations
- Blackened Salmon: Use the same seasoning blend to make blackened salmon. The cooking time may need to be adjusted based on the thickness of the salmon fillets.
- Grilled Blackened Cod: Instead of baking, you can grill the seasoned cod over medium-high heat for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
- Blackened Cod Tacos: Use the baked blackened cod to make delicious fish tacos. Serve in warm tortillas with shredded cabbage, salsa, and a drizzle of lime crema.
- Herb Butter Topping: Add a dollop of herb butter on top of the baked cod for extra richness and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Use Frozen Cod for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cod, but make sure to thaw it completely before seasoning and baking. Pat the fillets dry to remove any excess moisture.
2. How Do I Store Leftover Cod?
Store any leftover cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
3. What Can I Serve with Baked Blackened Cod?
This cod pairs well with a variety of sides, such as steamed vegetables, rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it with quinoa or roasted sweet potatoes for a healthy option.
4. Can I Use a Different Type of Fish?
Absolutely! You can use other white fish like tilapia, haddock, or halibut for this recipe. Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the fillets.
Baked Blackened Cod is a flavorful and healthy dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any night of the week. With its smoky, spicy seasoning and tender, flaky texture, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy the bold flavors of this simple yet delicious recipe. Give it a try, and savor the taste of homemade blackened fish without the fuss!
