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.
Ingredients
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
Instructions
Mix the seasoning:
In a small bowl, stir together paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, thyme, black pepper, and salt.Prep the fish:
Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to help the seasoning adhere and get a crispy crust.Season the fillets:
Rub the spice blend evenly on both sides of each cod fillet, pressing gently.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.Serve:
Remove from skillet and serve with lemon wedges and your favorite side dishes.
Notes
- Use a cast-iron skillet for best results.
- Pat the cod dry thoroughly to avoid steaming.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan — cook in batches if needed.
- 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