Baked Cod with Roasted Vegetables

Name: Baked Cod with Roasted Vegetables
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 pounds cod fillets; 1 pound small red potatoes, quartered; 1 pound carrots, peeled and chopped; 1 large onion, cut into wedges; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary; Salt and black pepper to taste; 1 lemon, thinly sliced; Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Author: Tessa

Published: September 1, 2025

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Baked Cod with Roasted Vegetables has become a true weeknight hero in my kitchen, and I can’t wait to share my go-to recipe with you! This dish effortlessly combines flaky, tender fish with beautifully caramelized vegetables, creating a meal that feels gourmet but is surprisingly simple to pull together. I’ve refined this method over countless dinners, always aiming for maximum flavor with minimal fuss, and trust me, it delivers every single time. It’s not just delicious; it’s packed with nutrients, making it a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a healthy yet satisfying meal. You’ll be amazed at how easily you can create something so incredibly tasty and wholesome.

Why You’ll Love This Baked Cod with Roasted Vegetables

You’re going to fall head over heels for this Baked Cod with Roasted Vegetables, and for so many good reasons! It’s a recipe that truly delivers on taste without demanding hours in the kitchen. I promise, once you try it, this will become a staple in your meal rotation. It’s perfect for busy evenings but elegant enough for guests.

The Benefits of Baked Cod with Roasted Vegetables

Quick & Easy: With simple prep and a single sheet pan, dinner is ready in under an hour.
Minimal Cleanup: Who doesn’t love less washing up? Everything cooks on one pan!
Nutrient-Dense: Packed with lean protein from the cod and vitamins from the colorful vegetables.
Incredibly Flavorful: The natural sweetness of roasted veggies perfectly complements the mild, flaky cod.
Highly Versatile: Easily swap out vegetables or seasonings to suit your taste or what’s in season.

Essential Ingredients for Baked Cod with Roasted Vegetables

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to a delicious meal! For this incredible Baked Cod with Roasted Vegetables, you’ll need just a few simple things. I always recommend using fresh, high-quality produce for the best flavor. Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

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1 1/2 pounds cod fillets
1 pound small red potatoes, quartered
1 pound carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
1 large onion, cut into 1/2-inch wedges
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 lemon, thinly sliced
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Prepare Baked Cod with Roasted Vegetables

Now for the fun part – putting it all together! Preparing Baked Cod with Roasted Vegetables is incredibly straightforward, but following these steps will ensure you get that perfect balance of tender veggies and flaky fish every time. I’ve broken it down to make it super easy to follow along, even if you’re new to sheet pan dinners.

First things first, make sure your oven is preheated to 400°F (200°C). This is crucial for getting those vegetables to roast properly and for the cod to cook through evenly without drying out. A hot oven means quicker caramelization and a better texture, so don’t skip this step!

Preparing Your Roasted Vegetables

Let’s get those veggies ready for their moment in the spotlight. In a large bowl, combine your quartered red potatoes, chopped carrots, and the onion wedges. I like to make sure my carrot pieces are similar in size to the potato quarters, so everything cooks at roughly the same rate. Drizzle generously with the olive oil, then sprinkle over the dried thyme, dried rosemary, a good pinch of salt, and some freshly ground black pepper. Toss everything together really well with your hands or a large spoon until every piece is beautifully coated. This ensures maximum flavor and even roasting.

Next, spread your seasoned vegetables in a single layer on a large baking sheet. This is a key tip! If you overcrowd the pan, the vegetables will steam instead of roast, leading to a much softer, less flavorful result. Give them space to breathe and brown. Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes. You’re looking for them to be tender when pierced with a fork and starting to get those lovely caramelized edges.

Perfecting Your Baked Cod

While your vegetables are doing their thing in the oven, it’s time to get your cod fillets ready. Pat the cod dry with a paper towel; this helps with even cooking and prevents a watery finish. Season both sides of each fillet with salt and black pepper. You don’t need much here, as the lemon and herbs from the vegetables will add plenty of flavor.

Once your vegetables are nearly done — around the 25-minute mark — carefully pull the baking sheet out. Make a little space for the cod fillets right on the same pan, nestling them among the roasted vegetables. Arrange a few thin lemon slices over each piece of cod. The lemon not only adds a bright, fresh flavor but also helps keep the fish moist. Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes. The exact time will depend on the thickness of your cod, but you’ll know it’s ready when the fish is opaque throughout and flakes easily with a fork. Don’t overcook it, or it’ll become dry!

Tips for the Best Baked Cod with Roasted Vegetables

To truly elevate your Baked Cod with Roasted Vegetables from good to absolutely amazing, a few simple tips can make all the difference. I’ve learned these through plenty of trial and error in my own kitchen, and they consistently lead to fantastic results. Pay attention to these details, and you’ll be serving up a perfectly balanced, flavorful meal every time.

Achieving Flavorful Baked Cod

The secret to perfect cod is all about balancing seasoning and timing. Always pat your cod fillets very dry before seasoning; this helps them bake beautifully and prevents a steamed texture. Don’t be shy with salt and pepper, but avoid overdoing it, as the lemon will add brightness. For temperature, I stick to 400°F (200°C) – it’s hot enough to cook quickly without drying out the delicate fish. The moment it flakes easily with a fork, pull it out!

Secrets to Perfectly Roasted Vegetables

For those irresistible, caramelized vegetables, selection and technique are key. Choose firm, fresh vegetables without blemishes. Cut them into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking – this is non-negotiable for consistent texture. And again, don’t overcrowd your baking sheet! Spread them in a single layer with a little space between each piece; this encourages true roasting and browning, not steaming. A good drizzle of olive oil and a toss until every piece is coated will also guarantee that golden-brown deliciousness.

Variations for Your Baked Cod with Roasted Vegetables

One of the things I love most about this Baked Cod with Roasted Vegetables recipe is how adaptable it is! Once you have the basic technique down, you can easily switch things up to suit your taste, what’s in season, or what you have on hand. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own.

For different vegetable combinations, try adding bell peppers, zucchini, broccoli florets, or even asparagus during the last 15-20 minutes of roasting. If you like a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes with the herbs adds a lovely kick. For an herbier twist, fresh dill or parsley can be added to the cod before baking. You can also experiment with different citrus, like orange or lime slices, for a unique flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions for Baked Cod with Roasted Vegetables

While this Baked Cod with Roasted Vegetables is a complete meal on its own, sometimes it’s nice to add a little something extra! I often pair it with a light green salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette; the crispness provides a lovely contrast to the tender fish and veggies. A side of fluffy quinoa or couscous can also be a wonderful addition, especially if you’re looking to soak up any extra pan juices. Don’t forget a sprinkle of fresh parsley right before serving for that final pop of color and freshness!

Common Questions About Baked Cod with Roasted Vegetables

I know when you’re trying a new recipe, especially one as versatile as Baked Cod with Roasted Vegetables, questions pop up! I’ve gathered some of the most common ones I hear and shared my best advice to help you feel confident in the kitchen. Don’t hesitate to ask if something isn’t covered here!

Can I use different types of fish for this Baked Cod with Roasted Vegetables recipe?

Absolutely! While cod is fantastic for its mild flavor and flaky texture, this recipe is super flexible. You can easily swap it out for other firm white fish like haddock, halibut, or even tilapia. Just be mindful of their thickness; thinner fillets might cook a little faster, so adjust your baking time accordingly to avoid overcooking. Salmon would also work beautifully, offering a richer flavor profile.

How do I store and reheat leftover Baked Cod with Roasted Vegetables?

If you have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), store the cooled cod and vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, I recommend using your oven or an air fryer. Place the cod and veggies on a baking sheet at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until just heated through. This gentle reheating prevents the fish from drying out and helps the vegetables regain some crispness. Microwaving can make the fish rubbery, so I usually avoid it.

Can I prepare the vegetables ahead of time for this Baked Cod with Roasted Vegetables?

Yes, you certainly can! This is a great meal prep hack for busy days. You can wash, peel, and chop all your vegetables a day or two in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, just toss them with the olive oil and seasonings, then proceed with the roasting steps. This little bit of prep work makes getting this delicious Baked Cod with Roasted Vegetables on the table even quicker!

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Estimated Nutritional Information

Please note that the nutritional information provided for this Baked Cod with Roasted Vegetables recipe is an estimate. Values can vary significantly based on specific brands, ingredient substitutions, and preparation methods. This is not a substitute for professional nutritional advice.

Make This Baked Cod with Roasted Vegetables Tonight!

There you have it, my friends! Everything you need to create a truly delicious and healthy Baked Cod with Roasted Vegetables. I genuinely hope you give this recipe a try. It’s a game-changer for busy weeknights and a fantastic way to enjoy a wholesome meal. If you make it, please come back and leave a comment below—I’d love to hear how it turned out for you!