This easy Grilled Cod Fish recipe makes flaky, flavorful cod with just 5 simple ingredients in under 20 minutes. A quick and healthy dinner perfect for busy weeknights and summer cookouts.
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One reason I love this grilled cod recipe is that it proves that simple ingredients can create an incredible, flavorful meal. Cod is quick, healthy, and takes on the flavor of the garlic butter perfectly. Even my wife, who wasn't always a fish fan, loves this recipe.
If you are looking for more easy grilled seafood recipes, be sure to try my Pellet Grilled Salmon and Grilled Maine Lobster. Both are simple to prepare and packed with flavor.
Reader Review: "I made this cod and loved how simple it was. We loved it and will make it again" - Mark
Why You'll Love Grilled Cod
- Fast Weeknight Dinner - In only 20 minutes, you can have flaky grilled fish on your plate. This makes it ideal for busy-weeknights.
- Healthy Meal and Protein-Packed - Cod is naturally low in fat and high in protein, which makes it a great option for a lighter meal that keeps you satisfied.
- Perfect for Fish Beginners - If you think you don't like fish, Cod might change your mind. Its mild flavor and flaky texture make it a great starter fish. My wife is a perfect example of that; cod is now one of her favorite fish dishes.
Equipment
- Sharp Knife - I love my Flint and Flame knives and how sharp they stay!
- Cutting Board - These boards are dishwasher safe and perfect for keeping your workplace clean and neat.
- Mixing Bowls - These stackable bowls are always in use in my kitchen.
- BBQ Spatula - Perfect for flipping tender fish on the grill!
- Meat Thermometer - The easiest way to perfect grilling times.
Recipe Video
Ingredients
- Cod Fillets: I used fresh cod for this recipe, but frozen can also work. If using frozen, make sure to thaw completely and pat dry before seasoning.
- Garlic Powder: Perfect to add a little savory flavor.
- Salt and White Pepper: Simple seasoning to enhance the flavor.
- Avocado Oil: The base for the seasoning oil rub.
- Parsley: For a bright, fresh flavor as well as a pop of color!
For the Garlic Butter - Butter: I used salted butter for this! But unsalted can work just as well if that is what you have on hand.
- Fresh Garlic: Garlic and seafood are always a winning combination!
Tim's Tip: Make sure to oil your grill grates before adding the cod fish. This will help prevent the delicate fish from sticking and falling apart while grilling.
How to Make Grilled Cod Fish
1. Preheat Grill: Preheat your grill to 400°F and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
2. Make the oil rub: In a small bowl, mix the avocado oil, white pepper, garlic powder, salt, and parsley.
3. Prep the Fish: Rinse the cod fillet and pat dry with paper towels. Cut into even-sized pieces for even cooking. Brush all sides of the fish with the oil rub mixture.
4. Optional Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, mix softened butter with minced garlic. Place the butter mixture onto plastic wrap, roll into a log, and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
5. Grill fish: Place the cod over direct heat away from open flames. Grill for 3 minutes, carefully flip, and cook an additional 4-5 minutes or until the fish reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
6. Finish with Garlic Butter: For extra flavor, place slices of the garlic butter on each piece of fish, allowing it to melt into the warm filets.
7. Serve and Enjoy! Serve immediately with lemon wedges and your favorite sides.
Substitutions and Variations
- Use a Different Fish - This recipe works great with other firm white fish such as mahi-mahi, grouper, or halibut.
- Try Using Different Herbs - Swap the parsley for fresh dill, chives, or basil for a different flavor profile.
- Add Some Heat - Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the oil rub.
- Use Foil Packets in Place of a Grill Pan - Foil packets are a great option for grilling cod and help prevent the fish from sticking while it cooks.
Tim's Tips
- Oil the Grill Grates - This helps to prevent the fish from sticking and makes flipping much easier.
- Don't Rush the Flip - Be gentle while flipping the grilled cod fish, and don't turn it too soon. You will notice when it is ready to flip, the fish will release more naturally.
- Watch Cooking Time - Remember, cod fish cooks quickly, especially thinner filets. Keep a close eye on the fish. I always recommend an instant-read thermometer to avoid overcooking.
- Use the Right Spatula - A thin BBQ spatula is one of the best tools for grilling fish. It easily slides underneath the fillets.
What to Serve with Grilled Cod Fish
Storage
Refrigeration: Grilled cod fish is best enjoyed fresh off the grill, but if you have leftovers, store them refrigerated for up to 2 days in an airtight container.
Reheating: Reheat gently in an air fryer at 325°F for 3-4 minutes or warm in a skillet over low heat using a splash of oil if needed. Be Careful not to overcook, or it can dry out.
FAQs
The best way to keep the cod from sticking to the grill is to make sure the grates are well oiled, clean, and hot before cooking.
I use a paper towel dipped in oil, carefully rubbing it on a hot grill to create a nonstick surface.
Cod is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. I love using my meat thermometer to accurately know when that is.
Yes. Just make sure the cod is completely thawed and pat it dry before grilling.
More Delicious Fish Recipes
What are the "must-haves" on your family menus? Let me know your family's favorite recipes in the comments! I love gathering ideas from fellow cooks!
Made this recipe? Let me know!
Recipe
Grilled Cod Fish
Ingredients
- 1 lbs Fresh Cod
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon Garlic Powder
- ½ teaspoon White Pepper
- 1 tablespoon Avocado Oil
- ½ tablespoon Fresh Parsley or 1 teaspoon Dried Parsley
Garlic Butter
- 2 Cloves Garlic Minced
- 2 tablespoon Butter Salted
Instructions
- Preheat Grill: Preheat your grill to 400°F and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Make the oil rub: In a small bowl, mix the avocado oil, white pepper, garlic powder, salt, and parsley.
- Prep the Fish: Rinse the cod fillet and pat dry with paper towels. Cut into even-sized pieces for even cooking. Brush all sides of the fish with the oil rub mixture.
- Optional Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, mix softened butter with minced garlic. Place the butter mixture onto plastic wrap, roll into a log, and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
- Grill fish: Place the cod over direct heat away from open flames. Grill for 3 minutes, carefully flip, and cook an additional 4-5 minutes or until the fish reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
- Finish with Garlic Butter: For extra flavor, place slices of the garlic butter on each piece of fish, allowing it to melt into the warm filets.
- Serve and Enjoy! Serve immediately with lemon wedges and your favorite sides.
Video
Notes
- Oil the Grill Grates - This helps to prevent the fish from sticking and makes flipping much easier.
- Don't Rush the Flip - Be gentle while flipping cod fish, and don't turn it too soon. You will notice when it is ready to flip, the fish will release more naturally.
- Watch Cooking Time - Remember, cod fish cooks quickly, especially thinner filets. Keep a close eye on the fish. I always recommend an instant-read thermometer to avoid overcooking.
- Use the Right Spatula - A thin BBQ spatula is one of the best tools for grilling fish. It easily slides underneath the fillets.
Storage
Refrigeration: Grilled cod fish is best enjoyed fresh off the grill, but if you have leftovers, store them refrigerated for up to 2 days in an airtight container. Reheating: Reheat gently in an air fryer at 325°F for 3-4 minutes or warm in a skillet over low heat using a splash of oil if needed. Be Careful not to overcook, or it can dry out.Nutrition
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