Baked Cod Lemon Dill Sauce

This baked cod with lemon-dill sauce transforms plain fish fillets into a restaurant-worthy meal in just 25 minutes. The tangy sauce adds brightness while the perfectly seasoned cod delivers protein-packed satisfaction without any fuss.

I first made this when hosting an impromptu dinner party and had nothing but frozen fish and basic pantry staples. The guests asked for the recipe before they even finished their plates, and it's been my go-to impressive-yet-easy meal ever since.

• Cod fillets: preferably thick center cuts for even cooking and a meatier texture
• Olive oil: helps seal in moisture and creates a lovely exterior
• Salt and pepper: the foundation of good seasoning never to be skipped
• Garlic powder: adds depth without the risk of burning that fresh garlic has
• Paprika: brings subtle warmth and beautiful color to the finished dish
• Greek yogurt: creates a tangy base for the sauce with added protein
• Fresh dill: the star herb that brings brightness and distinctive flavor
• Lemon juice and zest: essential for cutting through the richness of fish
• Dijon mustard: adds complexity and helps emulsify the sauce
• Mayonnaise: optional but creates silky texture and richness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep Your Oven:

Heat to 400°F to ensure quick cooking that seals in moisture. This higher temperature creates a slightly crisp exterior while keeping the interior tender and juicy. Take time to properly preheat for at least 10 minutes before baking.

Prepare The Fish:

Pat cod fillets completely dry using paper towels. This crucial step ensures proper browning and prevents steaming. Brush generously with olive oil on both sides, making sure to coat edges too for maximum moisture retention.

Season Thoroughly:

Apply salt and pepper liberally, then dust with garlic powder and paprika. The seasoning should form a light crust that will develop color and flavor during baking. Press gently to adhere spices to the fish.

Baking Process:

Place fillets on prepared baking sheet with at least 1 inch between each piece. Bake for exactly 12 minutes for standard thickness fillets, checking for doneness by gently inserting a fork. The fish should flake easily but still remain moist.

Create The Sauce:

Combine all sauce ingredients in a bowl, whisking vigorously until completely smooth. Taste and adjust seasonings, keeping in mind the sauce should be bright and punchy to complement the mild fish. Let sit for at least 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Plating And Presentation:

Carefully transfer each fillet to warmed plates. Spoon sauce artfully over one side of each fillet rather than covering completely. Garnish with fresh dill sprigs and thin lemon slices for visual appeal and added aromatics.

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My absolute favorite part of this recipe is the versatile lemon dill sauce. My grandmother taught me that adding a small pinch of sugar helps balance the acidity and brings out the lemon flavor even more. Whenever I make it, I'm transported back to summer evenings on her porch where she'd serve simple but perfect seafood dishes.

Perfect Pairings

This baked cod truly shines when served alongside roasted asparagus or green beans. The vegetable's slight bitterness complements the creamy sauce while adding textural contrast to the meal. For a complete dinner, add a small portion of wild rice or quinoa to absorb the extra sauce.

Make Ahead Options

You can prepare the lemon dill sauce up to three days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors actually develop and improve with time. For the fish, you can season it up to 8 hours before cooking, but wait to add the salt until just before baking to prevent the fish from releasing too much moisture.

Choosing Quality Cod

Look for cod with firm flesh and a mild, ocean scent. Avoid fish with a strong smell or discoloration. Fresh cod should have clear eyes if the head is still attached and the flesh should spring back when pressed. Frozen cod works wonderfully for this recipe too simply thaw slowly in the refrigerator overnight for best texture results.

Common Queries

→ How do I know when cod is done baking?

The fish will flake easily with a fork and appear opaque throughout. An internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) indicates it is fully cooked.

→ Can I use dried dill instead of fresh?

Yes, substitute 1 teaspoon dried dill for 1 tablespoon fresh. The flavor will be slightly milder but still delicious.

→ What can I serve alongside this dish?

Roasted potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a simple quinoa salad pair well and make the meal more filling.

→ Is Greek yogurt required for the sauce?

You can use sour cream in place of Greek yogurt. For a creamier texture, a bit of mayonnaise is optional.

→ How do I prevent the cod from drying out?

Do not overbake—remove the fish as soon as it flakes easily. Brushing with olive oil also helps retain moisture.