Cod
Bake 400°F, 12-15 min.
Delicate fish that breaks easily in a pan. Oven’s gentle heat cooks it through without the need to flip. Most forgiving for home cooks.
Step-by-Step
For oven (recommended):
1. Pat dry. Season with salt, pepper, lemon zest.
2. Place on parchment-lined sheet pan.
3. Drizzle with olive oil.
4. Bake 400°F, 12-15 min.
5. Done when it flakes easily with a fork.
6. Squeeze lemon over top.
For stovetop (advanced):
1. Pat very dry. Season + light flour dusting.
2. Med heat + oil in nonstick.
3. Place gently. Don't move for 3-4 min.
4. Flip carefully with fish spatula.
5. Cook 3 min more.
Size & Portion Guide
Thin fillet (1/2 inch): 8-10 min in oven (check at 8).
Standard (1 inch): 12-15 min.
Thick loin (1.5 inch): 15-18 min.
Small pieces/chunks (for fish tacos): stovetop 2-3 min/side.
Pan sear med, 3-4 min/side with fish spatula.
Don't Have Cast Iron?
Use nonstick for stovetop cod — it's delicate and will stick to stainless. For oven, any sheet pan with parchment works.
Pro Tip
Experienced cooks get better crust on stovetop, but oven is safer for beginners.