Cod is a versatile and popular white fish that is enjoyed around the world. Knowing how long to cook cod is important to ensure it turns out moist, tender and flaky every time. The cooking time can vary based on the cut and thickness of the cod, as well as the cooking method used. Read on for tips on determining cod doneness, suggested cooking times for various preparations and methods, and answers to common questions about cooking cod.
Determining Cod Doneness
Cod is done cooking when it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F. The fish will become opaque and flake easily when poked with a fork. Smaller cuts like cod fillets will cook faster than thicker cuts or a whole fish. Here are signs to look for when checking doneness:
- Opaque, white flesh – Cod should not appear translucent when cooked.
- Flaky texture – The flesh should break into clean flakes when poked.
- Moist interior – The cod should not be dried out inside.
- 140°F internal temperature – Use an instant read thermometer to check.
It’s important not to overcook cod as it can quickly become dry and rubbery. Check for doneness early and often when cooking. Undercooked cod will have a translucent appearance and soft, gelatinous texture inside.
Suggested Cooking Times
How long to cook cod depends on the thickness or cut as well as the cooking method. Here are general guidelines for common cod preparations:
Cod Fillets
- 1/2 inch thick – Cook for 3-5 minutes per side.
- 3/4 inch thick – Cook for 5-7 minutes per side.
- 1 inch thick – Cook for 7-10 minutes per side.
Cod fillets are often pan seared, grilled, baked or broiled. Cook times may need adjusting based on heat intensity.
Cod Steaks
- 1 inch thick – Cook for 8-12 minutes per side.
- 1 1/2 inches thick – Cook for 10-15 minutes per side.
Cod steaks or cuts can be prepared similar to fillets but may need slightly longer cook times due to their thicker cut.
Whole Cod
- 1-2 pounds – Bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes per pound.
- 3-4 pounds – Bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes per pound.
- 5 pounds or more – Bake at 400°F for 25-30 minutes per pound.
Whole cod can be roasted in the oven until the thickest section of flesh reaches 140°F. Use the suggested times as a starting point and check for doneness early.
Poached Cod
- 1 inch thick – Poach for 8-12 minutes.
- 2 inches thick – Poach for 12-18 minutes.
Poaching cod involves simmering it gently in liquid like broth, wine or water. Use lower suggested times for delicate cuts like fillets.
Baked Cod
- Fillets – Bake at 400°F for 10-15 minutes.
- Steaks – Bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes.
Baking times for cod vary based on thickness. Check often to prevent overcooking.
Cod Chowder or Stew
- 1 inch pieces – Simmer for 6-10 minutes.
- 2 inch pieces – Simmer for 8-12 minutes.
When adding cod to chowders or stews, opt for thicker cut pieces so the fish doesn’t break down too much. Use lower cook times as cod gets delicate once flaked.
Grilled Cod
- Fillets or steaks under 1 inch thick – Grill for 3-5 minutes per side over medium-high heat.
- Fillets or steaks over 1 inch thick – Grill for 5-7 minutes per side.
Quickly grilling cod over high heat helps create a nicely charred exterior while keeping the interior moist. Have all prep work done ahead of time so cod doesn’t overcook on the grill.
Cod Tacos
- 1/2 inch pieces or flakes – Saute for 3-4 minutes over medium-high heat.
When making fish tacos with cod, cut it into smaller pieces so it cooks fast with a bit of char. Take care not to break the fish down too much or overcook.
Key Tips for Cooking Cod
Follow these tips to help ensure perfectly cooked cod every time:
- Brush with oil or rub with spices – Coat cod lightly with oil or dry spice rubs to boost flavor and moisture.
- Watch thickness – The thickness of the cut impacts cook times so adjust accordingly.
- Use gentle heat – Cod delicately flakes apart when overcooked so avoid high heat.
- Check for doneness early – Cod can go from perfectly cooked to dry and overdone quickly.
- Let it rest – After cooking, let cod rest for 2-3 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Keep it moist – Poach, steam or bake cod in parchment to retain moisture if needed.
Following suggested cook times for cod and using a thermometer for doneness is key. Adjust as needed based on thickness and preferred texture.
Common Questions
Should cod be cooked with skin on or off?
This comes down to personal preference. Leaving the skin on while cooking helps keep the fillet intact. The skin also provides added flavor from the oils and can crisp up nicely. However, some people find it easier to remove the skin before cooking. Do what works best for your cooking method and taste.
Can you tell if cod is done by the color?
Yes, the color of cod can indicate doneness. Raw cod is translucent with a red or pinkish tint. As it cooks, it will turn opaque and become white throughout. This white, flaky appearance means cod is fully cooked. However, using an instant read thermometer is the most reliable way to check for doneness.
Should cod be flipped while cooking?
It’s important to flip cod at least once during cooking, especially thicker cuts or fillets. This allows both sides to cook evenly. For pan searing, grilling or broiling, flip the cod once halfway through the estimated cook time. When baking cod, there’s no need to flip it.
Can you overcook cod?
Yes, it’s easy to overcook cod. The delicate white fish dries out quickly if cooked for too long or at too high of heat. Check often for doneness and remove cod from the heat as soon as it flakes easily and reaches 140°F internally. Letting it rest off direct heat for a few minutes allows cod to finish cooking gently.
The Best Ways to Cook Cod
Here are some of the most popular and delicious ways to cook cod:
Baked Cod
Baking brings out cod’s mild, delicate flavor. Coat thick fillets or steaks with breadcrumbs, herbs or spices and bake until flaky inside. Serve with fresh vegetables or rice.
Pan-Seared Cod
Get a crispy golden crust on cod by pan frying in a little oil over medium-high heat. Cook fillets for just 3-5 minutes per side. Pair with a pasta or grain and veggies.
Broiled Cod
For easy, fast cooking, broil cod in the oven 4-5 inches from heat. Brush steaks or fillets with oil and broil for 7-10 minutes until browned and cooked through.
Grilled Cod
Grilling imparts delicious char while locking in moisture when done right. Grill cod over medium-high heat just until opaque and flaky. Serve with grilled veggies or on salads.
Poached Cod
For a healthy, fuss-free meal, poach cod fillets gently in broth or wine. Simmer for 8-10 minutes depending on thickness. Top with herbs or lemon wedge.
Cod Fish Tacos
For flavorful fish tacos, dice cod into smaller pieces and cook quickly in a skillet with taco seasoning. Load up corn tortillas with all the fixings.
Cod Chowder
Tender chunks of cod make a comforting addition to creamy chowders. Add 1-inch pieces at the end to gently simmer until cooked through and serve.
Tips for Cooking Thick vs Thin Cod
The thickness of the cod cut impacts overall cooking time. Keep these tips in mind:
Thick Cod Cuts
- Cook using lower heat over longer time to prevent burning exterior before interior is done.
- Bake, braise or poach thick cuts to promote even cooking.
- Use thermometer to check doneness since appearance alone can be deceiving.
- Allow thicker cuts to rest 5 minutes before serving.
Thin Cod Cuts
- Cook with higher heat for a short time, like grilling or pan searing.
- Flip thin fillets halfway through cooking to prevent overcooking one side.
- Check often as they can overcook quickly.
- No need to let thinner cuts rest before serving.
Conclusion
Knowing exactly how long to cook cod ensures you end up with moist, tender and flaky results every time. While cooking times vary, thinner cuts like fillets and small pieces will be done faster than thick steaks or a whole fish. Use an instant read thermometer to check for doneness, aiming for 140°F internally. Allow cod to rest briefly after cooking. With the proper techniques, cod can be prepared myriad delicious ways from poaching to tacos and more. Just resist the urge to overcook this delicate white fish.