This grilled cod recipe has completely altered my perspective on cooking fish! With a homemade blackened seasoning that delivers amazing smoky, savory flavors, it turns mild cod into a flavor-rich dinner that even skeptics appreciate.
I’ll admit: cod wasn’t on my radar for a long time. When I thought about grilling fish, I typically chose grilled salmon or perhaps grilled shrimp. Cod appeared too mild or, dare I say, unexciting—for the grill.
However, after Alex and I crafted this beloved pan-fried cod recipe, I realized grilled cod might actually be…thrilling? I opted to coat the cod with our homemade blackened seasoning, and the outcome was truly fantastic. The gentle fish became a canvas for remarkable smoky, spicy flavors, while still retaining its flaky texture. Now this delectable grilled cod frequently makes an appearance on our dinner table during the summer!
### What does cod taste like?
Cod boasts a mild, pure flavor that is entirely non-fishy. In fact, it’s even milder than fish such as salmon. Due to its delicate white flesh and neutral taste, it’s sometimes referred to as “chicken of the sea” (though yes, that’s also a brand of tuna).
Cod is an excellent beginner fish for those who don’t believe they enjoy fish. (Another introductory fish that’s not too fishy is this grilled ahi tuna.)
Looking for more cod options? Try baked cod, cod fish tacos, or our favorite cod recipes.
### Ingredients for grilled cod
This healthy grilled cod recipe is very straightforward and requires only a handful of ingredients. You’ll need to whip up a homemade seasoning blend, but once you do, you’ll have it ready for several more batches. Here’s what you’ll need for this recipe:
### The best seasoning for cod
In my view, the best seasoning for cod is blackened seasoning. Blackening is a Cajun-style method of cooking fish in a cast iron skillet with a seasoning mixture. Each chef has their own unique blend for blackened seasoning, so there’s no set definition. Most recipes include spices typical of Cajun cuisine: paprika, garlic, onion, oregano, thyme, and of course, cayenne for that kick! The spice level in this seasoning blend is medium hot. Here are the ingredients you’ll need:
– Smoked paprika or sweet paprika
– Onion powder
– Garlic powder
– Oregano
– Celery seed
– Allspice
– Cloves
– Cayenne
– Salt and black pepper
Prepare a large batch, and you’ll have enough for plenty of grilled cod. If you’re after an even spicier option, consider our Cajun seasoning instead.
### Use seafood seasoning as a mild option
This blackened seasoning has a bit of a kick, but our kids actually devour it! If you’re looking for a milder option, we’ve got you covered with our magic seafood seasoning! It’s truly the best combination of flavors: a mix of savory, smoky, and aromatic spices that makes for irresistible fish.
### Tips for how to grill cod
Grilled cod can be prepared right on the grill grates: no foil necessary! It infuses the cod with smoky flavor and a crispy outer layer. Here are our tips for grilling cod:
– What’s the temperature for grilled cod? Medium-high heat, or 375 to 450 degrees. Medium-high heat ensures perfectly cooked cod.
– How long to cook grilled cod? 4 minutes skin side down, then 2 to 4 minutes skin side up! The most effective way to determine if it’s done is by using an internal thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the fish, and it should register 130 degrees Fahrenheit. This should be when the cod just begins to flake when pulled with a fork.
### Ways to prevent sticking to the grill
Some individuals report issues with grilled fish sticking to the grill. Here’s our advice: Don’t attempt to flip it too soon! When the cod is adequately cooked, it releases from the grill grates, making it easy to turn.
However, if you try to touch it prematurely, it may stick and break apart. You don’t need to oil the grill grates. Just lightly oil the fish, and when cooking, wait until the cod easily releases (about 5 minutes). Then flipping becomes a breeze!
### What to serve with grilled cod
There are numerous fantastic ways to enhance grilled cod to create a wholesome dinner! Here are some of our favorite suggestions for turning it into a delightful summer meal:
### Dietary notes
This grilled cod recipe is gluten-free, dairy-free, and pescatarian.
### Perfect Grilled Cod
**Author:** Sonja Overhiser
**Prep Time:** 15 minutes
**Cook Time:** 10 minutes
**Total Time:** 25 minutes
**Yield:** 4 servings
**Category:** Main Dish
**Method:** Grilled
**Cuisine:** American
**Diet