Easy Blackened Cod Recipe: Bold Flavor in Just 10 Minutes

Craving a bold, smoky, and satisfying seafood dish that’s ready in minutes? This easy blackened cod recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort. With a punchy spice blend and perfectly seared crust, Blackened Cod Recipe is a fast, healthy, and low-carb dinner you’ll come back to again and again.

What I love about this recipe is its simplicity—you don’t need any fancy equipment, just a hot skillet, pantry spices, and fresh cod fillets. Whether you’re cooking for one or hosting a dinner party, this dish is impressive yet foolproof.

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Why You’ll Love This Blackened Cod Recipe

• Fast & Easy – Ready in under 15 minutes
• Big Flavor – Smoky, spicy crust with tender, flaky fish
• Healthy Option – Low in carbs, high in protein
• Flexible Serving – Perfect for bowls, tacos, or plated with veggies

Cod’s firm texture makes it the perfect canvas for bold spices, while the blackening technique locks in moisture and flavor.

Ingredients for Blackened Cod Recipe

Here’s everything you need to get started:

How to Make Blackened Cod Recipe (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Mix the Seasoning

In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, thyme, pepper, and salt.

Step 2: Prepare the Fish

Pat cod fillets dry with paper towels. This helps the spice blend stick and ensures a crisp finish.

Step 3: Season Generously

Rub the spice mix evenly onto both sides of each fillet, pressing to help it adhere.

Step 4: Sear the Cod

Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add oil or butter. Once hot and shimmering, add fillets. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until a blackened crust forms and the fish flakes easily with a fork.

Step 5: Serve

Remove from skillet and let rest briefly. Serve with lemon wedges and your favorite sides.

What is Blackened Seasoning?

Blackened seasoning is rooted in Cajun and Creole cuisines. It typically includes paprika, garlic, onion, thyme, cayenne, salt, and pepper. It’s smoky, spicy, and slightly herbal—perfect for fish, chicken, or even veggies.

Customize It:
Add cumin for depth, brown sugar for sweetness, or dried oregano for extra herbiness.

Pro Tip: Make a big batch and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Blackened vs. Grilled Cod: What’s the Difference?

Blackening is ideal for bold flavor and indoor cooking, while grilling is great for lighter fare.

How Long to Cook Blackened Cod Recipe?

Cod cooks fast—just 2 to 3 minutes per side in a hot skillet. Look for:

• A blackened, crispy crust
• Opaque flesh
• Flaky texture

For precision, cod is fully cooked at 145°F (63°C). Let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving.

Pro Tips & Creative Variations

• Use cast-iron: It holds heat and gives the best crust.
• Dry the fish: Moisture prevents proper searing.
• Experiment with sides: Try rice pilaf, roasted veggies, or mango salsa.
• Make it your own: Use the same seasoning on shrimp, tofu, or chicken.

How to Serve Blackened Cod Recipe

Serve hot from the skillet with:

• Rice or quinoa bowls
• Tacos with slaw and crema
• Mixed greens or roasted vegetables

Storage Tip: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet to maintain the crust.

FAQs About Blackened Cod Recipe

Easy Blackened Cod Recipe: Bold Flavor in Just 10 Minutes

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• Author: Camila
• Total Time: 11 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

This Blackened Cod Recipe delivers bold flavor and a crispy, smoky crust in just minutes! Perfectly seared with Cajun-inspired spices, it’s a fast, healthy, and delicious seafood dinner that’s low in carbs and packed with protein. Serve it with lemon wedges, rice, tacos, or a fresh salad for a restaurant-worthy meal at home.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

 

• 4 (6 oz) fresh cod fillets, skinless

• 2 tsp smoked paprika

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper

• 1 tsp salt

• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter

• Lemon wedges, for serving

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Instructions

 

 

1. Mix the seasoning:
   In a small bowl, stir together paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, thyme, black pepper, and salt.

2. Prep the fish:
   Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to help the seasoning adhere and get a crispy crust.

3. Season the fillets:
   Rub the spice blend evenly on both sides of each cod fillet, pressing gently.

4. Sear the fish:
   Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add oil or butter. Once hot, add fillets and sear for 2–3 minutes per side until blackened and the fish flakes easily with a fork.

5. Serve:
   Remove from skillet and serve with lemon wedges and your favorite side dishes.

Notes

1. Use a cast-iron skillet for best results.
2. Pat the cod dry thoroughly to avoid steaming.
3. Don’t overcrowd the pan — cook in batches if needed.
4. The spice mix works well on shrimp, tofu, or chicken too.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 minutes
• Cuisine: Cajun / American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 fillet
• Calories: ~230
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 11g
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Protein: 28g

Conclusion

This blackened cod recipe is a flavorful, foolproof favorite. It comes together quickly, requires minimal ingredients, and delivers bold taste in every bite. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike!