The flavor of our Cod Tacos will have your family wondering how long it took you to make this dinner. Let them think what they want while you enjoy the fact that this recipe comes together in 30 minutes or less.
The Best Cod Tacos
There’s nothing better than a weeknight dinner that looks impressive, tastes great, and comes together quickly. These cod tacos check all the boxes and will become a regular on your meal rotation.
What You’ll Need
Baked Cod
- fresh cod fillets – A flaky white fish that works wonderfully for tacos. Wild-caught cod is preferred for the best texture and flavor.
- kosher salt & ground black pepper – Just a pinch to enhance the fish.
- butter – Adds richness and a touch of creaminess to the cod.
- garlic – Fresh minced garlic gives the fillets depth of flavor.
- cajun seasoning – Swap for your favorite fish seasoning if you prefer. The seasoning provides a bright contrast to cod’s mild flavor.
Light Lemon Slaw
- angel hair slaw – Thinly shredded cabbage mix available at most stores, or shred your own.
- mayo – Helps bind the slaw and soften the cabbage’s crunch.
- lemon juice – Brightens the slaw with a light citrus note.
- white wine vinegar – Adds a mild tang and balance.
- kosher salt – A small pinch to taste.
Taco Toppings
- homemade tartar sauce – or your favorite fish sauce.
- quick pickled onions – optional, but highly recommended for brightness.
- fresh dill – Complements tartar sauce and fish.
- fresh cracked pepper – Adds a warm bite.
- green onion, sliced – For a mild oniony pop.
- fresh lemon wedges – Use lime if preferred.
- tortillas – Flour or corn tortillas both work well.
How To Make Cod Tacos
Preheat the oven to 425°F. Place the cod fillets in a baking dish and pat them dry with paper towels. Season lightly with kosher salt and ground black pepper. In a small bowl, mix softened butter with minced garlic, then spread this garlic butter over each fillet. Finish by sprinkling cajun seasoning over the tops for a bright, savory kick.
How To Cook Cod For Fish Tacos
Place the baking dish on the middle oven rack and bake uncovered for about 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches roughly 140°F. Thinner fillets will be closer to 14–15 minutes, while thicker pieces may need 20+ minutes. Once cooked, the cod should flake easily with a fork.
While the fish bakes, make the light lemon slaw: toss the angel hair slaw with mayo, lemon juice, white wine vinegar, and a pinch of kosher salt. Adjust mayo or lemon to suit your taste.
If you’re preparing homemade tartar sauce, blend those ingredients in a food processor now so it’s ready when the tacos are assembled.
To assemble: let the cod cool for 2–3 minutes, then flake it into bite-sized pieces. Warm your tortillas, layer on a serving of lemon slaw, top with flaked cod, and finish with tartar sauce, pickled onions, fresh dill, and cracked pepper. Squeeze on lemon or lime to taste. Customize toppings as you like for a perfect plate every time.
Recipe FAQs
Store the cooked fish separately from the tortillas and toppings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Assemble just before serving to keep the tortillas and slaw fresh.
Other Fish Taco Recipes You Might Like
- Easy Tilapia Fish Tacos
- Salmon Tacos
- Ahi Tuna Tacos
- Easy Shrimp Tacos + Chipotle Lime Slaw
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Cod Tacos Recipe
Ingredients
Baked Cod:
- 1 pound fresh cod fillets, approx. 1 inch thick
- kosher salt and ground black pepper
- 4 tablespoons butter, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- 2-3 teaspoons cajun seasoning
Light Lemon Slaw:
- 2 cups angel hair slaw
- 2 tablespoons mayo
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon white wine vinegar
- pinch kosher salt
Other Taco Ingredients + Toppings:
- tortilla of your choice
- homemade tartar sauce
- quick pickled onions
- fresh dill
- fresh cracked pepper
- green onions, sliced
- fresh lemon wedges
Instructions
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Prep: Preheat oven to 425°F.
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Prep Cod: Place 1 pound fresh cod fillets in a baking dish. Pat dry and season with kosher salt and ground black pepper. Combine 4 tablespoons butter and 2 teaspoons minced garlic, then spread the garlic butter over each fillet. Season with 2–3 teaspoons cajun seasoning.
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Cook Cod: Bake on the middle rack, uncovered, for about 15–20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches about 140°F. Timing depends on fillet thickness.
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Prep Toppings: While the cod cooks, toss the angel hair slaw with mayo, lemon juice, white wine vinegar, and a pinch of salt. Prepare tartar sauce and pickled onions if using.
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Build Tacos: Let the cod cool slightly, then flake into bite-sized pieces. Warm tortillas, add lemon slaw, top with flaked cod, and finish with tartar sauce, pickled onions, fresh dill, and cracked pepper. Serve with lemon wedges.
Notes
- Cajun Seasoning: A store-bought cajun blend works well, but feel free to use homemade or swap for another favorite seasoning. Cod is mild, so a touch of bold seasoning helps the tacos shine.