![- Cod fillets: Cod is a mild fish that flakes easily. It pairs well with many flavors. - Mayonnaise: This ingredient keeps the fish moist and adds creaminess. It helps the spices stick to the cod. - Spices and seasonings: Use garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to enhance the dish. Each spice adds a layer of flavor, making every bite delicious. - Panko breadcrumbs: These breadcrumbs give a nice crunch to the dish. They create a golden crust when baked. - Fresh parsley: This herb adds color and freshness. It brightens the dish and makes it look appealing. - Side dishes: I recommend serving the cod with steamed vegetables or a crisp salad. These sides balance the richness of the fish. - Beverage pairings: A chilled white wine or sparkling water goes well with the cod. These drinks complement the flavors without overpowering them. For the complete cooking process, check out the Full Recipe. Start by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat helps the cod cook quickly and evenly. While the oven heats, grab a baking dish and line it with parchment paper. This makes cleanup easy and helps prevent sticking. You want a nice, smooth surface for the fish. In a medium bowl, add the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Use a whisk or spoon to mix everything together. Make sure it’s smooth and creamy. The mayo will keep the fish moist, while the spices add great flavor. This combo is key for a tasty cod dish. Now it’s time to coat the cod fillets. Place the fillets in your baking dish, making sure they are spaced out. Take a generous amount of the mayo mixture and spread it over each fillet. Cover them well; this adds flavor and keeps the fish juicy. After coating, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs on top. This adds a nice crunch when baked. Bake the cod in your preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes. Check for doneness by gently flaking the fish with a fork. It should be opaque and flake easily. If the topping is golden brown, you know it’s ready. When done, let it cool for a few minutes. This helps the flavors settle before you serve. Enjoy this delightful meal with lemon wedges for a fresh twist. For the full recipe, check the earlier section. To make your baked cod shine, try using different spices or herbs. You can switch smoked paprika for regular paprika for a milder taste. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper gives it a nice kick. Fresh herbs like dill or chives can also add a bright flavor. Experimenting helps you find what you love best. Knowing when your cod is done is key. Cooked cod should flake easily with a fork. The flesh should be opaque and no longer translucent. If you have a meat thermometer, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This tells you that the fish is safe to eat and perfectly moist. How you plate your cod can make a big difference. Serve the cod on a colorful platter with lemon wedges on the side. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness. You can also arrange it with steamed vegetables or a simple salad for a nice touch. This makes your meal not just tasty, but beautiful too. For the full recipe, check it out [Full Recipe]. {{image_2}} You can swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt. Greek yogurt gives a creamy texture and adds protein. It also cuts down on calories. Use the same amount of yogurt as mayo in the recipe. This change makes the dish lighter and still tasty. Feel free to experiment with different mustards or spices. You might try honey mustard for sweetness. Spicy brown mustard adds a kick. You can also mix in herbs like dill or basil to brighten the flavor. Each option brings a unique twist to the baked cod. Adding veggies makes this a one-pan meal. You can toss in zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach. Simply place the veggies around the cod in the baking dish. They will cook alongside the fish, soaking up all the delicious flavors. This not only adds color but also boosts nutrition. You can find the full recipe for these variations in the original section. To store leftover baked cod in the refrigerator, first, let it cool. Place the cod in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and prevents odors from mixing. Make sure to eat it within three days for the best taste. You can also cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. For long-term storage, freezing baked cod with mayo is an excellent option. Wrap each fillet in plastic wrap or foil. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This helps prevent freezer burn. You can freeze cod for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat it, just thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheating baked cod without drying it out is key. The best way is to use the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cod on a baking sheet. Cover it with foil to keep moisture in. Heat for about 10 to 15 minutes. Check if it’s warm throughout. You want it to be hot but not overcooked. Enjoy your meal again! Yes, you can use frozen cod fillets. When using frozen cod, make sure to thaw them first. The best way to thaw is overnight in the fridge. If you're short on time, you can run cold water over the fillets for about 30 minutes. Pat them dry with paper towels before using. This step helps the mayo mixture stick better. Remember, frozen cod may release more moisture during cooking, so baking time may vary slightly. You can prepare the mayo mixture ahead of time. Just mix all the ingredients in a bowl and store it in the fridge. Keep it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. I recommend using it within 24 hours for the best flavor. This way, all you need to do is coat the cod before baking. It makes dinner prep quick and easy, especially on busy nights. The best way to know if cod is fully cooked is by checking its internal temperature. Cod should reach 145°F (63°C) to be safe to eat. You can use a food thermometer to check. The fish should also be opaque and flake easily with a fork. If it looks shiny or translucent, it needs more time. Following these tips ensures you enjoy a perfectly cooked meal. For the full recipe, visit our main article. This article guided you through making delicious baked cod. We covered essential ingredients like cod fillets, mayonnaise, and spices. You learned tips for perfect cooking and presentation, plus side dishes and drinks to serve. Experiment with flavors and toppings to suit your taste. Remember to store leftovers properly for later enjoyment. With these steps, you can create a tasty and satisfying meal every time. Enjoy your cooking journey and impress those around you with your baked cod!](https://pureeatsnow.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/462111b7-66b6-47c2-b8a7-62ecefd3cb3c-250x250.webp)
Flavorful Baked Cod with Mayo
Discover the deliciousness of flavorful baked cod with mayo! This simple recipe combines tender cod fillets with a creamy mayo mixture, Dijon mustard, and a crunchy panko topping. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, you can have this gourmet dish ready in just 30 minutes. Impress your family and friends with this easy yet flavorful meal.