Amazing Honey Marinated Baked Cod in 30 Mins

Name: Amazing Honey Marinated Baked Cod in 30 Mins
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds Cod fillets; 1/4 cup Honey; 1/4 cup Soy sauce; 2 tablespoons Olive oil; 2 cloves Fresh garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon Fresh ginger, grated; 2 tablespoons Lemon juice; Salt to taste; Black pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

by Fenna Saul

September 25, 2025

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Honey marinated baked cod has become my absolute go-to for a weeknight meal that feels fancy but is surprisingly simple. I remember the first time I tried making it; I was worried about the fish drying out or the marinade being too sweet, but oh boy, was I wrong! The delicate cod soaks up that sweet and savory glaze, and when it comes out of the oven, the aroma of garlic, ginger, and that touch of honey is just divine. It’s truly the easiest way to prepare a delicious seafood dinner. Learning how to bake honey marinated cod has seriously elevated my weeknight cooking game. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Honey Marinated Baked Cod

This dish is a winner for so many reasons. It’s incredibly flavorful, making it a standout sweet honey baked cod that everyone will adore.

Amazing Taste: The balance of sweet honey and savory soy sauce creates a mouthwatering glaze.
Super Quick Prep: You can whip up the marinade and coat the fish in just about 10 minutes.
Healthy Choice: Cod is a lean protein, and this recipe keeps things light and low in fat.
Budget-Friendly: Cod fillets are often affordable, making this a great meal without breaking the bank.
Family Approved: Even picky eaters tend to love the mild flavor and tender texture.
Effortless Cooking: It’s truly a quick honey marinated cod dinner – just marinate and bake!
Versatile: Pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes, from rice to roasted vegetables.

Ingredients for Honey Marinated Baked Cod

Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to creating a truly delicious oven baked cod honey marinade. The magic happens when the sweet and savory elements meld together. Here’s what you’ll need for this fantastic honey baked cod recipe:

1.5 pounds Cod fillets – about 4 medium fillets, skinless is best for even cooking
1/4 cup Honey – this is key for that signature sweetness and helps create a beautiful glaze
1/4 cup Soy sauce – provides the savory depth and umami notes that balance the honey
2 tablespoons Olive oil – helps tenderize the fish and adds a touch of richness
2 cloves Fresh garlic, minced – for a pungent, aromatic flavor kick
1 tablespoon Fresh ginger, grated – adds a warm, zesty note that complements the other flavors
2 tablespoons Lemon juice – brightens everything up and cuts through the richness
Salt to taste – enhances all the flavors
Black pepper to taste – for a hint of spice
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish) – adds a burst of freshness at the end

How to Make Honey Marinated Baked Cod

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious and easy baked cod honey recipe that your family will devour. The aroma filling your kitchen as this bakes is just incredible!

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This initial heat is crucial for getting a nice sear and tender fish quickly.
Step 2: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the 1/4 cup honey, 1/4 cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 2 cloves minced garlic, 1 tablespoon grated ginger, and 2 tablespoons lemon juice. Add a pinch of salt and black pepper. Whisk until everything is well combined and slightly emulsified. This blend creates the perfect honey baked cod marinade.
Step 3: Place your 1.5 pounds cod fillets into a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour about two-thirds of the marinade over the fish, making sure each fillet is generously coated. Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes at room temperature. For a deeper flavor, you can marinate for up to 30 minutes.
Step 4: Prepare your baking dish by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 5: Arrange the marinated cod fillets in the prepared baking dish. Try to keep them in a single layer. Reserve the remaining marinade for basting later.
Step 6: Place the dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. About halfway through the baking time, carefully spoon some of the reserved marinade over the fillets to create a beautiful baked cod with honey glaze. The fish should look glossy and caramelized.
Step 7: Once cooked, remove the cod from the oven. Let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist fish.
Step 8: Garnish your beautiful honey marinated baked cod generously with fresh chopped cilantro.
Step 9: Serve this easy baked cod honey recipe hot with your favorite sides. Enjoy the sweet and savory perfection!

Amazing Honey Marinated Baked Cod in 30 Mins - Honey Marinated Baked Cod - additional detail

Pro Tips for the Best Honey Marinated Baked Cod

To ensure your honey marinated baked cod turns out perfectly every time, keep these simple tips in mind. They’ll help you achieve that amazing sweet and savory flavor!

Use fresh, good-quality cod fillets for the best texture and taste.
Don’t skip the marinating time; even 10 minutes makes a difference in flavor infusion.
Watch the fish closely during baking; cod cooks quickly and can dry out if overcooked.
Feel free to experiment with herbs like dill or parsley in the marinade.

What’s the secret to perfect honey marinated baked cod?

The secret to perfect honey marinated baked cod is the balance of sweet and savory in the marinade and using the best way to bake marinated cod, which is at a high temperature to cook it quickly. Don’t overcook it!

Can I make honey marinated baked cod ahead of time?

Yes, you can definitely prepare the honey marinated cod ahead of time. Marinate the fish for up to 30 minutes, then cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to bake it within a few hours.

How do I avoid common mistakes with honey marinated baked cod?

Avoid overcooking the cod, as it can become dry. Also, ensure you use enough marinade to coat the fish well. Finally, don’t forget to baste it during baking for that beautiful glaze.

Best Ways to Serve Honey Marinated Baked Cod

This versatile honey marinated baked cod is wonderful with a variety of sides, making it easy to create a complete meal. For a fantastic savory honey baked cod dish, I love pairing it with fluffy white rice or quinoa to soak up any extra marinade. Roasted asparagus or green beans also make a beautiful and healthy addition. If you’re looking for something a bit heartier, mashed sweet potatoes or a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette complement the sweetness of the fish perfectly. It’s truly adaptable to whatever you have on hand!

Amazing Honey Marinated Baked Cod in 30 Mins - Honey Marinated Baked Cod - main visual representation

Nutrition Facts for Honey Marinated Baked Cod

This light and flavorful honey marinated baked cod is a fantastic option for a healthy meal. Each serving is packed with protein and flavor without being too heavy.

Calories: 200 kcal
Fat: 8 g
Saturated Fat: 2 g
Protein: 20 g
Carbohydrates: 10 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 5 g
Sodium: 400 mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Honey Marinated Baked Cod

Leftovers from this delicious honey baked cod recipe are surprisingly good! Once your honey marinated baked cod has cooled down completely, transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to save it for longer, you can absolutely freeze it. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. This makes for a super convenient future meal!

When you’re ready to enjoy your stored cod, reheating is simple. For refrigerated portions, gently warm them in a covered baking dish at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also warm it gently in a non-stick skillet over low heat. For frozen portions, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator first before reheating as you would the refrigerated leftovers. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the fish a bit dry and rubbery.

Frequently Asked Questions About Honey Marinated Baked Cod

What is the best honey for baked cod?

For this honey marinated baked cod, a mild, liquid honey like clover or wildflower honey works beautifully. It provides sweetness without overpowering the delicate flavor of the cod. Avoid strongly flavored honeys like buckwheat, as they can make the dish too intense. The goal is a subtle sweetness that enhances the fish, making it a truly delightful baked cod with honey glaze.

Why marinate cod in honey?

Marinating cod in honey serves a couple of important purposes for this easy honey marinated cod recipe. Firstly, the honey provides a lovely sweetness and helps create that irresistible caramelized glaze when baked. Secondly, the other ingredients in the marinade, like soy sauce and lemon juice, tenderize the fish and infuse it with savory and bright flavors. It’s crucial for developing the characteristic sweet and savory profile of this dish.

Can I substitute the soy sauce in this honey baked cod recipe?

Absolutely! If you need a gluten-free option, tamari or coconut aminos are excellent substitutes for soy sauce in this honey baked cod recipe. They offer a similar savory depth. For a different flavor profile, you could also try a bit of fish sauce mixed with a touch of Worcestershire sauce, though this will alter the final taste significantly. Always ensure your substitute provides that essential umami element.

How do I make this honey marinated baked cod spicier?

To add a kick to your honey marinated baked cod, simply incorporate some red pepper flakes into the marinade! Start with about 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes when you’re whisking together the honey, soy sauce, and other ingredients. You can always add more to reach your desired level of heat. This simple addition transforms your sweet and savory dish into a wonderfully spicy and savory experience.

Variations of Honey Marinated Baked Cod You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the basic honey marinated baked cod, don’t be afraid to get creative! There are so many ways to adapt this recipe to your preferences. For a lighter, healthy honey baked cod recipe, you can reduce the honey by a tablespoon and add a splash more lemon juice for brightness.

If you’re looking for a different cooking method, this marinade works wonderfully for pan-searing or even grilling. For a truly unique twist, consider this a base for a broader honey marinated white fish bake – it’s delicious with haddock or tilapia too! You could also amp up the flavor by adding a pinch of smoked paprika to the marinade for a subtle smoky depth, or incorporating fresh herbs like dill or parsley directly into the mix before baking.