Friday night calls for delicious, easy-to-make meals.
Cod is the perfect star for your weekend dinner.
This versatile fish is light, flaky, and quick to cook.
It makes an ideal choice for busy evenings.
From crispy baked cod to creamy cod casseroles and zesty Mediterranean preparations, there’s something for every taste.
Whether you prefer oven-baked, pan-seared, or slow-cooked recipes, these 15 Friday cod recipes bring variety, flavor, and comfort to your table.
Get ready to elevate your Friday dinners with simple yet impressive cod dishes.
Your family will love every bite.
15 Delicious Friday Cod Recipes for Busy Weeknights
With these 15 Friday cod recipes, enjoying a flavorful, wholesome dinner has never been easier.
Cod’s mild taste makes it adaptable to countless cooking styles.
From spicy and zesty to rich and creamy, there’s a recipe for every preference.
You can switch between baked, grilled, or casserole versions to keep Fridays exciting.
These recipes are not only delicious but also quick and satisfying.
Incorporate them into your weekly meal plan.
Savor the simplicity, taste, and versatility of cod.
Turn every Friday dinner into a memorable occasion.
Baked Lemon Garlic Cod
This cod recipe is light, flaky, and bursting with fresh lemon and garlic flavors.
It is perfect for a healthy Friday dinner that is simple to prepare.
The tender fish pairs beautifully with a buttery, zesty sauce for an elegant yet easy meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Lemon slices for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Grease a baking dish lightly with olive oil.
- Place cod fillets in the dish, ensuring they are evenly spaced.
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, parsley, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour the mixture evenly over the cod fillets.
- Top each fillet with a thin lemon slice.
- Cover the baking dish with foil to retain moisture.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the cod flakes easily with a fork.
- Remove foil and broil for 2–3 minutes for a golden finish.
- Remove from the oven and let the fillets rest for 2 minutes before serving.
Tender, flavorful, and perfectly cooked, this baked cod is simple yet elegant.
The zesty lemon and garlic combination enhances the natural sweetness of the fish.
It is a healthy and satisfying choice for any Friday dinner.
Crispy Pan-Seared Cod with Herbs
This pan-seared cod recipe features a crispy golden crust and delicate, flaky interior.
Fresh herbs and a light butter sauce bring out the natural flavor of the fish.
It is an ideal Friday dinner that feels indulgent but cooks in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
- 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
- Pat cod fillets dry with a paper towel.
- In a shallow dish, combine flour, salt, and black pepper.
- Lightly dredge each cod fillet in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the cod fillets carefully to the skillet.
- Sear for 3–4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
- Reduce heat to low and add butter, parsley, and thyme to the skillet.
- Spoon the melted butter and herbs over the fillets to infuse flavor.
- Remove cod from skillet and place on a serving plate.
- Serve immediately with lemon wedges for added brightness.
Golden, crispy, and full of fresh herb flavor, this cod is irresistible.
The buttery sauce perfectly complements the flaky fish texture.
It is a quick, elegant, and satisfying Friday dinner option.
Mediterranean Cod Bake
This Mediterranean-inspired cod bake is full of tomatoes, olives, and aromatic herbs.
It is colorful, flavorful, and a perfect centerpiece for a relaxed Friday dinner.
The fish cooks in a rich tomato sauce, absorbing every bit of flavor.
Ingredients:
- 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup black olives, sliced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- Arrange cod fillets in the dish, leaving space between them.
- In a bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, sliced olives, red onion, garlic, olive oil, oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour the vegetable mixture evenly over and around the cod fillets.
- Cover the baking dish with foil to retain moisture.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, until the cod is opaque and flakes easily.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes to slightly brown the vegetables.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Tender cod absorbs the flavors of tomatoes, olives, and garlic perfectly.
The Mediterranean herbs create a vibrant and aromatic dish.
It is a healthy, colorful, and satisfying Friday dinner.
Cod and Potato Gratin
This cod and potato gratin combines tender cod with creamy, cheesy potatoes.
It is a comforting, rich dish that elevates a simple fish dinner into a gourmet meal.
Every bite is creamy, cheesy, and full of delicate flavors.
Ingredients:
- 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
- 3 cups thinly sliced potatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère or cheddar cheese
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp butter
- ½ tsp nutmeg
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom of the dish.
- Sprinkle half of the onion and garlic over the potatoes.
- Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.
- Place cod fillets over the potato layer.
- Cover cod with remaining potato slices and onion mixture.
- Pour heavy cream evenly over the entire dish.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top for a golden crust.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Creamy, cheesy, and perfectly baked, this gratin is indulgent yet comforting.
The combination of cod and potatoes creates a harmonious, flavorful dish.
It is an elegant yet easy Friday dinner your family will love.
Spicy Cod Tacos
These cod tacos are flavorful, slightly spicy, and perfect for casual Friday dinners.
Crispy fish fillets are paired with fresh slaw and zesty sauce for a restaurant-style meal at home.
They are fun, quick to make, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
- 4 cod fillets (6 oz each), cut into strips
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 8 small tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp hot sauce
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
- Pat cod strips dry and season with paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook cod strips for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
- In a small bowl, mix sour cream, lime juice, and hot sauce to create a spicy sauce.
- Warm tortillas in a skillet or microwave until pliable.
- Assemble tacos by placing cod strips on each tortilla.
- Top with shredded cabbage and drizzle with spicy sauce.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
- Serve immediately with lime wedges if desired.
Spicy, flavorful, and perfectly balanced, these cod tacos are fun to eat.
The fresh slaw and zesty sauce complement the crispy fish beautifully.
They make a quick, casual, and satisfying Friday dinner.
Cod in Creamy Tomato Basil Sauce
This cod recipe features tender fillets simmered in a rich, creamy tomato and basil sauce.
It is perfect for a Friday dinner that feels indulgent but is easy to prepare.
Every bite combines the delicate flavor of cod with a luscious, aromatic sauce.
Ingredients:
- 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ tsp chili flakes (optional)
- 1 tsp dried basil or 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until aromatic.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes and stir to combine.
- Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and chili flakes if using.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 5–7 minutes to thicken the sauce slightly.
- Stir in heavy cream and fresh or dried basil, creating a creamy, fragrant sauce.
- Carefully place cod fillets into the sauce, ensuring they are partially submerged.
- Cover the skillet and simmer for 12–15 minutes until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Spoon sauce over the fillets and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
- Serve immediately with crusty bread or steamed vegetables.
Rich, creamy, and packed with tomato and basil flavors, this cod dish feels gourmet.
The sauce perfectly enhances the delicate, flaky texture of the fish.
It is a comforting and elegant Friday dinner that everyone will enjoy.
Garlic Butter Cod with Roasted Vegetables
This cod dish pairs tender, buttery fish with a variety of roasted vegetables.
It is simple, flavorful, and perfect for a wholesome Friday night dinner.
The garlic butter sauce makes every bite rich and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup baby carrots
- 1 cup zucchini, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss baby carrots, zucchini, and red bell pepper with olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
- Spread the vegetables evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 15–20 minutes until tender.
- While vegetables roast, melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in lemon juice and dried thyme to create a flavorful garlic butter sauce.
- Season cod fillets with salt and black pepper.
- Place fillets in the skillet and spoon garlic butter over them.
- Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, basting with sauce occasionally until cod is opaque and flaky.
- Plate cod fillets alongside roasted vegetables.
- Drizzle any remaining garlic butter over the fish and vegetables before serving.
Tender, buttery, and aromatic, this cod pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables.
The garlic butter sauce enhances the natural flavor of the fish.
It is an easy yet elegant Friday dinner that feels special.
Cod and Spinach Casserole
This casserole combines flaky cod with tender spinach and a creamy sauce.
It is baked until golden and bubbly for a comforting Friday night meal.
Every bite is rich, cheesy, and full of flavor.
Ingredients:
- 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tsp dried dill
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp butter
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter.
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent and fragrant.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until aromatic.
- Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 3 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, dried dill, salt, and black pepper.
- Place cod fillets in the prepared casserole dish.
- Pour spinach mixture evenly over the cod fillets.
- Pour cream and cheese mixture over the top to coat the fish.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over the casserole.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Creamy, cheesy, and full of tender spinach, this cod casserole is comforting.
The combination of cod, spinach, and cheese creates a balanced, flavorful dish.
It is perfect for a cozy and satisfying Friday dinner.
Cod with Coconut Curry Sauce
This cod dish is infused with aromatic coconut curry flavors.
It is mildly spiced, rich, and pairs beautifully with steamed rice or naan.
The sauce enhances the delicate taste of cod without overpowering it.
Ingredients:
- 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, grated
- 1 tbsp curry powder
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 1 tsp lime juice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for 1–2 minutes.
- Add curry powder and toast briefly to release flavors.
- Pour in coconut milk and stir to combine.
- Simmer sauce for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Season cod fillets with salt and black pepper.
- Gently place cod fillets in the curry sauce, spooning sauce over them.
- Cover the skillet and simmer for 10–12 minutes until cod is opaque and flakes easily.
- Stir in lime juice just before serving.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve over steamed rice.
Rich, creamy, and slightly spiced, this cod curry is flavorful and comforting.
The coconut sauce complements the delicate texture of the fish beautifully.
It is a vibrant and satisfying Friday night dinner.
Honey Mustard Baked Cod
This cod recipe balances sweet and tangy honey mustard flavors.
It is easy to prepare and perfect for a quick Friday dinner.
The fish stays tender and moist while the sauce caramelizes slightly in the oven.
Ingredients:
- 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Grease a baking dish lightly with olive oil.
- In a small bowl, mix Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Place cod fillets in the prepared dish.
- Brush the honey mustard mixture evenly over each fillet.
- Cover the dish with foil to retain moisture.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes, until the cod is opaque and flakes easily.
- Remove foil and broil for 2–3 minutes to slightly caramelize the sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Sweet, tangy, and perfectly baked, this cod is simple yet flavorful.
The honey mustard glaze enhances the natural taste of the fish.
It is a quick, elegant, and satisfying Friday dinner option.
Cod with Mediterranean Salsa
This cod recipe features tender fish topped with a vibrant Mediterranean salsa.
It combines tomatoes, olives, cucumbers, and fresh herbs for a refreshing flavor.
The dish is light, colorful, and perfect for a healthy Friday dinner.
Ingredients:
- 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
- ½ cup cucumber, diced
- ½ cup Kalamata olives, sliced
- 2 tbsp red onion, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- Pat cod fillets dry with a paper towel and season with salt and pepper.
- Place fillets in the baking dish, leaving space between each piece.
- In a medium bowl, combine diced tomatoes, cucumber, olives, red onion, parsley, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Stir the mixture gently until ingredients are well combined.
- Spoon the Mediterranean salsa evenly over each cod fillet.
- Drizzle a little olive oil over the top to enhance flavor.
- Bake the cod in the preheated oven for 18–20 minutes, until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Remove from the oven and allow the cod to rest for 2 minutes before serving.
Fresh, flavorful, and vibrant, this cod dish is perfect for a light and satisfying dinner.
The Mediterranean salsa adds a zesty, refreshing contrast to the tender fish.
It is a simple yet elegant option for a Friday night meal.
Cod with Creamy Dill Sauce
This cod recipe is baked and served with a creamy dill sauce that enhances its delicate flavor.
It is rich, comforting, and perfect for a relaxed Friday dinner at home.
The sauce is smooth, tangy, and pairs beautifully with flaky fish.
Ingredients:
- 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Lemon slices for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a baking dish with butter.
- Pat cod fillets dry and season with salt and pepper.
- Place cod in the prepared baking dish.
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt butter.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Remove from heat and stir in sour cream, Dijon mustard, dill, and lemon juice.
- Pour the creamy dill sauce evenly over the cod fillets.
- Cover the dish with foil to retain moisture.
- Bake for 18–20 minutes until the cod is fully cooked and flakes easily.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 3–5 minutes to slightly brown the sauce.
- Garnish with lemon slices before serving.
Rich, creamy, and fragrant, this cod dish feels indulgent yet light.
The dill sauce perfectly complements the mild, flaky fish.
It is an elegant and comforting Friday dinner that everyone will enjoy.
Cod with Garlic Parmesan Crust
This baked cod features a golden, crunchy garlic Parmesan topping.
The crust adds texture while keeping the fish tender and juicy inside.
It is an easy yet impressive dish for a Friday night dinner.
Ingredients:
- 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- In a small bowl, combine Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and black pepper.
- Add melted butter to the mixture and stir until well combined.
- Pat cod fillets dry and season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Place cod in the prepared baking dish.
- Press the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of each fillet.
- Bake uncovered for 15–18 minutes, until the cod flakes easily and the crust is golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and allow to rest for 2 minutes.
- Serve immediately with lemon wedges for extra brightness.
Golden, crunchy, and full of flavor, this cod dish is sure to impress.
The Parmesan and garlic crust enhances the natural sweetness of the fish.
It is a simple, flavorful, and satisfying Friday dinner option.
Cod with Tomato and Basil Pasta
This cod recipe pairs tender fish with a light tomato basil pasta.
It is a fresh, flavorful, and filling meal for a casual Friday dinner.
The pasta absorbs the flavors of the fish and sauce for a harmonious dish.
Ingredients:
- 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
- 8 oz pasta of choice (penne or spaghetti)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup fresh basil, chopped
- ½ tsp chili flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan for serving
Instructions:
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 3–4 minutes until they soften slightly.
- Season cod fillets with salt and black pepper.
- Gently place cod in the skillet with tomatoes.
- Cover and cook for 12–15 minutes until cod is opaque and flakes easily.
- Remove cod carefully and set aside.
- Toss cooked pasta in the skillet with tomatoes and reserved pasta water to combine flavors.
- Stir in fresh basil and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Serve pasta topped with cod fillets and grated Parmesan.
Fresh, flavorful, and light, this cod pasta is a satisfying meal.
The combination of tomato, basil, and tender fish creates a harmonious dish.
It is perfect for a quick and elegant Friday dinner.
Cod with Sweet Chili Glaze
This cod recipe features a sticky, sweet, and slightly spicy glaze.
It is baked until caramelized on top while remaining tender inside.
The glaze creates a delicious balance of sweet and savory flavors.
Ingredients:
- 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
- 3 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds for garnish
- 2 green onions, chopped
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Lightly grease a baking dish with oil.
- In a small bowl, combine sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, ginger, and black pepper.
- Pat cod fillets dry and place them in the baking dish.
- Brush the glaze generously over each fillet.
- Bake uncovered for 15–18 minutes until the cod flakes easily and the glaze caramelizes slightly.
- Remove from oven and sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top.
- Let rest for 2 minutes before serving.
Sticky, sweet, and mildly spicy, this cod dish is full of flavor.
The glaze enhances the fish without overpowering its delicate taste.
It is an exciting and vibrant Friday dinner option.
