Description
This blackened cod recipe delivers bold, smoky flavors with a crispy crust and juicy center. It’s quick to make, healthy, and perfect for weeknight dinners. With just a few spices and a hot pan, you can serve up a restaurant-style fish dish in under 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Cod
- 4 fresh cod fillets (about 5 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Lemon wedges, for serving
For the Blackening Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
Instructions
-
Prepare the seasoning
In a small bowl, mix together paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, thyme, black pepper, and salt. -
Dry and season the fish
Pat the cod fillets dry with a paper towel. Brush each fillet with olive oil, then coat both sides evenly with the blackening spice mix. Press gently to help it stick. -
Heat the skillet
Place a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Let it get hot, almost smoking, for a good sear. -
Cook the fish
Add the fillets to the hot skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes per side without moving them around. Let a dark crust form on both sides. -
Add butter and finish cooking
Once the fish is seared, reduce heat to medium. Add a tablespoon of butter and spoon it over the fillets for extra flavor. Cook 1–2 more minutes or until the fish flakes easily. -
Serve
Remove from heat and serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges and your favorite sides.
Notes
- Use a cast iron skillet for best results, it helps create that bold crust.
- You can substitute cod with salmon, tilapia, or mahi-mahi.
- Adjust cayenne pepper to your spice preference.
- Let the fish rest for a minute after cooking to retain moisture.
- This dish pairs well with avocado salsa, rice, or a light salad.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days, and reheat gently in a skillet.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 10
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Pan-seared
- Cuisine: American, Cajun-inspired
Keywords: blackened cod recipe, easy fish dinner, skillet cod, spicy cod fillet, cajun fish, weeknight seafood, quick fish recipe, healthy cod meal