Name: Baked Old Bay Garlic Butter Cod for a Quick Seafood Fix
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 28 min
Ingredients: 4 fillets Cod (Can be substituted with tilapia or haddock.); to taste Salt; to taste Black Pepper; 1 stick Unsalted Butter (Can be substituted with olive oil or ghee for a dairy-free option.); 3-4 cloves Garlic (Fresh minced garlic.); 1 tablespoon Old Bay Seasoning; 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice (Can be substituted with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar.); to taste Fresh Parsley (Can be replaced with dill or chives.); to taste Lemon Wedges (For serving.)

The aroma of garlic wafting through my kitchen takes me back to summer evenings spent by the shore, where seafood is the star of the show. Our hero today is the Baked Old Bay Garlic Butter Cod—a dish that embodies the essence of coastal cooking. Imagine tender cod fillets swimming in a luscious garlic butter sauce, elevated by the unbeatable spice blend of Old Bay. This recipe is a total lifesaver: it’s not only gluten-free and budget-friendly but also incredibly quick to whip up, making it perfect for hectic weeknights and special gatherings alike. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or just dipping your toes into cooking, this dish promises to deliver a delightful dining experience without the fuss. Ready to create some culinary magic? Let’s dive in!

Why Choose This Baked Cod Recipe?

Simplicity at Its Finest: This easy recipe calls for simple ingredients and minimal prep time, making it accessible for cooks of all levels.

Flavorful and Aromatic: The fusion of Old Bay seasoning and garlic butter yields a rich, mouthwatering taste that will tantalize your taste buds.

Quick Meal Solution: With a cook time of just 15-18 minutes, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time—perfect for busy weeknights!

Versatile Ingredient Options: Feel free to customize this dish by substituting cod with other fish like tilapia or haddock, accommodating different palettes. If you’re craving something spicier, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick!

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: This recipe is an instant favorite, sure to impress family and friends whether you serve it over buttery rice or in tasty tacos. For more seafood inspiration, don’t miss out on our Lemon Garlic Chicken or Grilled Honey Garlic options!

Baked Old Bay Garlic Butter Cod Ingredients

For the Fish
• Cod Fillets – A flaky, mild fish that absorbs the rich flavors beautifully; can be swapped with tilapia or haddock.
• Salt and Black Pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance the natural flavors of the fish; adjust to your taste preference.

For the Garlic Butter
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; substitute with olive oil or ghee for a dairy-free option.
• Garlic – Fresh minced garlic gives aromatic depth; for an intensified flavor, use an extra clove.
• Old Bay Seasoning – Brings a zesty, coastal flavor blend; this is what makes your Baked Old Bay Garlic Butter Cod uniquely delicious!

For Serving
• Lemon Juice – Brightens flavors and adds a touch of acidity; apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar can be used as substitutes.
• Fresh Parsley – A colorful garnish that adds freshness; dill or chives can be great alternatives depending on your taste.

Optional for Garnish
• Lemon Wedges – A fresh squeeze enhances the dish’s brightness; perfect for serving on the side!

Now that we have everything lined up, get ready to whip up this quick seafood fix that will delight your senses!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Baked Old Bay Garlic Butter Cod

Step 1: Prep the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready for your cod fillets, allowing them to cook evenly. While the oven warms up, gather your baking dish and line it lightly with parchment paper to make cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Make Garlic Butter
In a small saucepan over low heat, melt 1 stick of unsalted butter. Once melted, add 3 to 4 minced garlic cloves. Let the garlic infuse for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally until it turns fragrant and golden. This garlic butter will be the base of your Baked Old Bay Garlic Butter Cod, providing rich flavor.

Step 3: Prepare Cod
Take your thawed cod fillets and place them in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle half of the garlic butter over the fish, ensuring each fillet is coated well. Then, generously sprinkle Old Bay seasoning, salt, and black pepper evenly across the top, giving your cod a bright, zesty flavor profile.

Step 4: Bake
Once your cod is seasoned, place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake the cod for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and appears opaque. You’ll know it’s done when the colors deepen and the edges start to slightly crisp—an enticing sign of perfectly cooked fish.

Step 5: Finish
After removing the cod from the oven, drizzle the remaining garlic butter over the top for an extra burst of flavor. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fillets to brighten the dish, adding a refreshing contrast to the rich garlic butter.

Step 6: Garnish
Serve your Baked Old Bay Garlic Butter Cod while it’s hot! Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Consider adding lemon wedges on the side to let your guests enhance their servings with a zesty squeeze. This dish is now ready to impress!

What to Serve with Baked Old Bay Garlic Butter Cod

The perfect meal goes beyond just the main dish; it creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that uplift your dining experience.

Buttery Rice: The creaminess of buttery rice will absorb the flavors of the garlic butter, pairing beautifully with the flaky cod.
Roasted Vegetables: Bright, vibrant roasted vegetables add a delightful crunch and fresh sweetness that complements the rich fish perfectly.
Crispy Kale Salad: A fresh and crisp kale salad with a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the buttery cod, enhancing each bite.
Garlic Bread: Tender, crusty garlic bread is not only delicious but serves as the perfect vessel for sopping up extra garlic butter.
Lemon Herb Quinoa: This nutty, lemon-infused quinoa adds a healthy touch while balancing the richness of the cod with its bright flavor.
Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay complements the dish beautifully, enhancing the rich flavors and cutting through the butter’s richness.
Cheesecake: End your meal on a sweet note with a light, fluffy cheesecake, offering a creamy finish to your seafood feast.

Each of these suggestions harmonizes wonderfully with the Baked Old Bay Garlic Butter Cod, making your dinner a delightful and complete experience.

How to Store and Freeze Baked Old Bay Garlic Butter Cod

Fridge: Store leftover Baked Old Bay Garlic Butter Cod in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Be sure to let it cool down before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: You can freeze cooked cod for up to 2 months. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag for better protection against freezer burn.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through. Drizzle with a bit of melted butter to enhance the moisture and flavor.

Make-Ahead: For a quicker dinner prep, you can prepare the garlic butter mixture a few hours in advance and store it in the fridge.

Make Ahead Options

These Baked Old Bay Garlic Butter Cod fillets are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the garlic butter mixture up to 3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator to maintain its rich flavor. Additionally, you can season the cod fillets and place them in the baking dish, covering them tightly with plastic wrap to keep them fresh for up to 24 hours before cooking. When you’re ready to serve, simply preheat your oven, drizzle the cod with the prepared garlic butter, and bake. This way, you’ll enjoy quick, delicious results with minimal effort, making your weeknight dinners a breeze!

Expert Tips for Baked Old Bay Garlic Butter Cod

Thawing Matters: Ensuring cod fillets are fully thawed and patted dry will prevent excess moisture, enhancing the texture of your Baked Old Bay Garlic Butter Cod.
Don’t Overcook: Keep a close eye on the fish. It should be removed from the oven when it’s opaque and just flakes easily; this avoids the risk of a dry result.
Broil for Crispiness: For a tantalizing crispy edge, consider broiling the cod for the last 1-2 minutes. Just be sure to watch it closely to avoid burning!
Basting Brush Tip: Use a basting brush to apply the garlic butter evenly. This keeps the fish moist and ensures every bite has that rich, buttery flavor.
Garlic Freshness: Fresh minced garlic truly elevates your dish. For an even bolder flavor, don’t hesitate to add an extra clove or two!

Variations & Substitutions for Baked Old Bay Garlic Butter Cod

Love the idea of making this recipe your own? Let’s explore some delightful variations and substitutions to suit your tastes!

Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with olive oil or coconut oil for a deliciously creamy appeal without dairy.
Spice It Up: Incorporate a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a fiery kick that adds depth to the dish.
Different Proteins: Swap cod for halibut or salmon for a bold new flavor profile that’s equally enjoyable and easy to prepare.
Herb Swap: Experiment with fresh herbs like dill or cilantro instead of parsley to introduce a unique fragrance that elevates every bite.
Zesty Twist: Use lime juice instead of lemon for a vibrant citrusy flavor that dances on your palate.
Crispy Finish: Broil the fish for the last 1-2 minutes to attain a crunchy edge, creating a pleasing contrast with the tender fish.
Vegetable Boost: Add thinly sliced bell peppers or zucchini to the baking dish for a colorful veggie medley that rounds out your meal.
Flavor Infusion: Try adding a few tablespoons of white wine or a splash of apple cider vinegar to the garlic butter for added tanginess.

So, dive into this enticing adventure and customize your Baked Old Bay Garlic Butter Cod! For more inspiration, check out our Garlic Butter Salmon or add some flair with Sticky Honey Garlic options! Enjoy every delicious moment!

Baked Old Bay Garlic Butter Cod Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best cod fillets?
Absolutely! When choosing cod fillets, look for ones that are bright white with a slight sheen and don’t have any dark spots or discoloration. Fresh cod should smell clean, like the ocean, and feel firm to the touch. If you’re opting for frozen fillets, ensure they are properly sealed without any ice crystals, which can indicate thawing and refreezing.

How should I store leftover baked cod?
You can store leftover Baked Old Bay Garlic Butter Cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Allow the cod to cool completely before placing it in the container to maintain its freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, a gentle reheat in the oven will help retain moisture.

Can I freeze cooked cod, and how?
Yes, you can freeze your Baked Old Bay Garlic Butter Cod! Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in freezer bags or airtight containers to protect against freezer burn. It can stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw the cod in the fridge overnight and reheat gently to preserve that delicious flavor and texture.

What should I do if my baked cod is dry?
Very! If your cod turns out dry, it might be due to overcooking. To prevent this, always check the fish a minute or two before the recommended cook time. If it’s already dry, consider using a drizzle of extra garlic butter or a squeeze of lemon juice over it when serving, as this can help reintroduce moisture and flavor.

Is Baked Old Bay Garlic Butter Cod safe for people with seafood allergies?
No, this dish contains fish, so it is not safe for those with seafood allergies. For those who enjoy similar flavors without the seafood, I recommend trying a similar preparation using chicken breasts or tofu, seasoned with the same Old Bay seasoning and garlic butter to keep the spirit of the dish while catering to dietary restrictions.

How can I adjust the spiciness of the dish?
Feel free to adjust the spice level according to your taste preferences! For a little heat, I often recommend adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes within the garlic butter. Another option is to serve the cod with a spicy tartar sauce for those who want a kick with each bite.