Go Back

Tasty Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce

This Tasty Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce is a light, creamy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick and healthy dinner. Flaky cod fillets are baked in a rich coconut milk sauce infused with fresh lemon, garlic, and a touch of spice. It’s an easy 30-minute meal that’s both comforting and refreshing—perfect for busy weeknights or elegant enough for entertaining!
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean, Fusion
Keyword: Tasty Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce
Calories: 290kcal

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
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Cod

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

Make the Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce

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

Bake the Cod

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

Notes

  • Use fresh cod if possible. If using frozen, make sure to thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
  • Don’t overbake! Cod is done when it easily flakes apart with a fork.
  • For extra creaminess, stir in a splash of heavy cream or Greek yogurt before baking.
  • Make it spicy! Add more red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for extra heat.
  • Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or oven.