Broiled Cod Recipe

This Broiled Cod dish is a 4-ingredient, 20-minute dinner wonder. And it's packed with flavor using a simple chef trick. Welcome to the world of foolproof cod recipes!

If you're looking for a way to dress up cod that will keep dinner interesting without breaking the bank or requiring an hour of prep or clean-up, here's your recipe. Serve it simply with broiled lemons, or add fresh Italian Salsa Verde. Either way, everyone will be asking for seconds.

Making a simple lemon garlic aioli seals flavor into our flaky white fish, and adds a touch of fat and richness that helps the fish turn a beautiful, bubbly golden brown.

Once you try it, you'll be adding cod to your weekly menu! May I suggest Pesto Panko Cod and Salsa Verde Fish, too? A trio of cod superstars!

Ingredients for the best cod recipe:

Before we get to the easy step-by-step instructions, a few notes about the ingredients.

Fish: cod is my preference for this recipe, but it's economical and easy to find here in Portugal. If you have a favorite local fish, go with that! Try to choose fillets that are similar in thickness to allow for even cooking and cook times. And be sure fish is dried well before brushing with the aioli.

Mayo: full fat, real mayo works best for a broiled fish application.

Lemon: bright citrus sneaks into every part of this recipe. We have zest and juice in the aioli, and lemon slices broiling alongside our fish. You can sub another citrus like limes or grapefruit, but be aware they can bring more acidity to the party. So taste and adjust.

Garlic: one fat clove of fresh garlic adds the perfect punch of flavor to our mayo sauce. Substitute ¼ teaspoon of garlic powder, or grate a tablespoon of shallot into the mayo, if needed. Taste and adjust flavor before brushing onto fish.

Seasonings: a pinch of salt and pepper are all you need to round out the lemon and garlic aioli. If you're feeling frisky, add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne.

Full ingredient list and measurements included in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make Broiled Cod

Step 1: Prep Fish

Preheat broiler to high and position oven rack 5-6 inches from the heating source. Lay thawed fish fillets on a foil-covered sheet pan. Scatter sliced lemons around tray. 

Step 2: Make Aioli

Combine mayo, lemon zest, juice and grated garlic. Add a pinch of salt and pepper.

Step 3: Prep and Broil Cod

Using a pastry brush, cover fish fillets lightly with aioli.

Broil for 6-7 minutes, until opaque and browning across the top. Serve with lemon slices and diced parsley or scallions.

What fish can be substituted for cod?

Haddock, hake or grouper are easy subs for cod. But this simple recipe works with almost any type of flaky white fish.

What to serve with broiled fish?

Cod is a mild and flaky white fish, perfect for serving with Mediterranean Lemon Dill Rice and savory Roasted Green Cauliflower.

How to store leftover cod?

Transfer fish to an airtight container and keep in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet with a few drops of water or a pat of butter until just heated through.

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