Tasty Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce

This Tasty Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce is a dream come true for seafood lovers! Flaky, tender cod is baked in a creamy coconut sauce infused with bright lemon, garlic, and a hint of spice, creating a dish that’s both comforting and refreshing. It’s incredibly easy to make in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or an elegant meal for entertaining!

Get ready for a dish that’s buttery, zesty, and full of rich coconut flavor—all while being light and healthy! Let’s dive in.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes!
• Healthy & Light: Packed with protein and healthy fats.
• Creamy & Flavorful: The coconut lemon sauce is rich yet refreshing.
• Versatile: Works with any white fish like halibut, tilapia, or sea bass.

What Does This Baked Cod Taste Like?

Each bite of this baked cod is delicate and flaky, soaking up the creamy coconut lemon sauce. The coconut milk brings a subtle sweetness, while the lemon juice adds a bright zing that keeps it from feeling too heavy. Hints of garlic, paprika, and a little chili give the sauce an irresistible depth of flavor.

Ingredients

For the Cod:

• 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup canned coconut milk (full fat)
• ½ cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon honey (or maple syrup for a natural sweetener)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Baking dish
• Small saucepan
• Whisk
• Knife & cutting board

Ingredient Substitutions & Additions

• No cod? Use halibut, tilapia, or even salmon.
• Dairy-free alternative? Use coconut oil instead of butter.
• Love spice? Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne.
• Extra creamy? Stir in a splash of heavy cream with the coconut milk.

How to Make Tasty Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce

S1: Prep the Cod

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Pat cod fillets dry with a paper towel, then season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Sear the cod for 1-2 minutes per side (just until golden). Remove from heat and place in a lightly greased baking dish.

S2: Make the Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce

1. In the same pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Stir in coconut milk, broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
3. Whisk in honey for a touch of sweetness.

S3: Bake the Cod

1. Pour the coconut lemon cream sauce over the cod fillets.
2. Bake uncovered for 12-15 minutes, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately!

What to Serve with Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce

Pair this light, creamy cod dish with:

• Roasted Red Pepper and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken – A delicious, cheesy, protein-packed side.
• Potato and Bean Soup – A hearty and comforting starter.
• Honey Mustard Roasted Potatoes – A flavorful, crispy potato side that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.
• Steamed rice or quinoa – Perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce!

Tips for Perfect Baked Cod

• Use fresh cod if possible. Frozen works too, but make sure to thaw and pat dry before cooking.
• Don’t overbake! Cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork—about 12-15 minutes.
• For extra flavor, marinate the cod in lemon juice and olive oil for 15 minutes before cooking.
• Want a thicker sauce? Stir in 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water before baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: The baked cod can be frozen for up to 2 months (without the sauce).
• Reheat: Warm in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 300°F until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of fish?

Yes! This sauce pairs beautifully with halibut, tilapia, sea bass, or even salmon.

Is this dish dairy-free?

Yes! The sauce is made with coconut milk instead of cream, making it naturally dairy-free.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can make the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge. Just pour it over the fish and bake when ready!

More Delicious Seafood & Side Dishes

• Roasted Red Pepper and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken – A cheesy, flavorful stuffed chicken recipe.
• Potato and Bean Soup – A filling, cozy soup to start your meal.
• Honey Mustard Roasted Potatoes – The ultimate crispy, tangy potato side.

If you try this Tasty Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce, I’d love to hear what you think! Leave a comment or share your photos on Pinterest (@TheKitchenJoyy) and tag me!

Enjoy this light, creamy, and flavorful baked cod dish! 🍋🥥✨