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Easy Baked Lemon Garlic Cod Recipe with Crispy Brussels Sprouts

baked lemon garlic cod - featured image

A quick and easy baked cod recipe featuring a bright lemon garlic marinade paired with crispy roasted Brussels sprouts, perfect for a wholesome and satisfying dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cod fillets (6 oz / 170 g each), fresh or thawed
  • 1 pound (450 g) Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
  • 1 large lemon, juiced and zested
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt to taste (preferably kosher salt)
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon butter, melted (or dairy-free alternative)
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Trim the ends off the Brussels sprouts and halve them lengthwise. Toss in a mixing bowl with 2 tablespoons olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. If using Parmesan, sprinkle it in now.
  3. Spread the Brussels sprouts cut side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
  4. Roast the Brussels sprouts in the oven for about 15 minutes. Halfway through, flip them using tongs to ensure even crisping.
  5. While the sprouts roast, mix lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, melted butter, 1 tablespoon olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper in a small bowl to make the lemon garlic sauce.
  6. Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. After the Brussels sprouts have roasted for 15 minutes, place the cod fillets on the baking sheet next to the sprouts.
  7. Brush the lemon garlic sauce generously over each cod fillet.
  8. Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for another 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the Brussels sprouts edges are crisp and caramelized.
  9. Optional: Serve with fresh lemon wedges and sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or dill for garnish.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the Brussels sprouts on the baking sheet to ensure crispiness. Pat the cod dry before applying the lemon garlic sauce to avoid sogginess. Check the fish at 12 minutes to avoid overcooking. You can prepare the lemon garlic sauce up to a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Frozen cod can be used if fully thawed and dried. For extra crispy sprouts, roast cut side down and flip halfway through.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked cod, lemon garlic cod, crispy Brussels sprouts, easy dinner, healthy fish recipe, quick weeknight meal, gluten-free, low-carb