Baked Cod Coconut Lemon Cream

This baked cod in coconut lemon cream sauce transforms simple white fish into an elegant dinner with minimal effort. The bright citrus notes balance perfectly with the rich coconut cream, creating a sauce you'll want to soak up with crusty bread or spoon over rice.

I discovered this recipe during a seaside vacation when a local fishmonger suggested this preparation for the day's catch. Since then, it's become my go-to way to elevate cod from ordinary to extraordinary without complicated techniques.

Ingredients

• Fresh cod fillets: look for pieces that are uniformly thick for even cooking and have a clean, ocean scent
• Coconut milk: use full fat for the richest sauce texture and flavor
• Heavy cream: creates silky texture that clings beautifully to the fish
• Fresh lemon: both juice and zest provide bright acidity that cuts through the richness
• Dijon mustard: adds subtle complexity and helps emulsify the sauce
• Fresh herbs: bring color and freshness to the finished dish
• Butter and olive oil: combination provides flavor while preventing the butter from burning

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Cod:

Pat the cod completely dry with paper towels this ensures proper browning and prevents watery sauce. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides. Let the fish sit at room temperature for 5 minutes while you prepare the sauce.

Create the Flavor Base:

In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter with olive oil until it begins to foam slightly. Add minced garlic and cook for exactly 60 seconds, stirring constantly until fragrant but not browned. This releases the aromatic oils without developing bitterness.

Build the Sauce:

Add red pepper flakes if using, then pour in coconut milk and heavy cream. Whisk constantly as you add lemon juice, zest, and Dijon mustard. Let the sauce come to a gentle simmer where small bubbles appear around the edges not a rolling boil.

Reduce and Concentrate:

Allow sauce to simmer for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally. You'll notice it thickening slightly and becoming more aromatic. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon but still remain pourable.

Bake to Perfection:

Transfer cod to a baking dish that comfortably fits all pieces without crowding. Pour the hot sauce over the fish, ensuring some gets underneath as well. Bake at 400°F for 15 to 20 minutes, depending on thickness. The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and appears opaque throughout.

My absolute favorite part of this dish is the moment when the cod releases its natural juices into the sauce during baking, creating an incredible flavor that's impossible to achieve any other way. My husband, who normally finds cod boring, now requests this weekly since I perfected the recipe last winter.

Perfect Pairings

This creamy cod deserves accompaniments that complement without overwhelming. Steamed jasmine rice makes an ideal base, soaking up the luxurious sauce while adding subtle floral notes. For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice works beautifully, with its mild flavor and ability to absorb the coconut lemon sauce.

Make-Ahead Options

While best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare components in advance. Make the sauce up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate in an airtight container. Gently reheat before pouring over seasoned cod and baking. This approach actually allows the flavors to meld and develop, potentially creating an even more delicious final dish.

Seasonal Adaptations

During summer months, add halved cherry tomatoes to the sauce before baking for bursts of sweet acidity. In colder seasons, incorporate a pinch of warming spices like ground ginger or a touch of nutmeg to create a more comforting profile while maintaining the bright citrus notes that make this dish special.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use frozen cod fillets?

Yes, just thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning and baking for best texture.

→ What can I use instead of heavy cream?

Half-and-half or an extra splash of coconut milk can stand in for heavy cream in the sauce.

→ How do I know when the cod is done?

The cod should be opaque and easily flake with a fork, typically after 15–20 minutes of baking.

→ Are there alternative herbs for garnish?

Fresh parsley, cilantro, or dill all pair well with the creamy, citrusy sauce.

→ What sides complement this dish?

Rice, crusty bread, or even a simple green salad make great accompaniments for the saucy cod.