You are going to love this blackened cod recipe. It’s quick and easy and ready in under 10 minutes. The homemade blackened seasoning gives the fish a smoky, slightly sweet and spicy Cajun flavor that elevates this healthy fish dish.
If you enjoy fast seafood recipes, this blackened cod joins other simple favorites like air fryer Mahi Mahi and air-fried frozen shrimp as quick, flavorful weeknight options.
Why you will love this recipe:
- These blackened cod fillets have amazing flavor — smoky, slightly sweet and nicely spicy.
- Quick and easy: the fish cooks in under 10 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- This recipe is healthy and works for gluten-free, dairy-free, low-carb, keto and paleo diets.
- Use this blackened cod to make tacos, sandwiches, or serve as a simple main with vegetables.
Ingredients and substitutions:
See the recipe card below for the full ingredient list and exact measurements.
Jump to the Recipe Card.
- Cod fillets: Thaw frozen fillets before cooking. Wild cod is preferred for flavor when available.
- Cooking oil: Avocado oil works well; olive oil is an acceptable substitute.
- Blackened seasoning: The homemade blend uses smoked paprika, oregano, coconut or brown sugar, salt, black pepper, onion and garlic powders, cayenne and basil. A store-bought blackened seasoning can be used if you prefer.
Recipe variations and add-ins:
- Serving a crowd: Double or triple the recipe as needed.
- Substitute fish: If cod isn’t available, try haddock or pollock.
- No smoked paprika: Use regular or sweet paprika instead.
- Milder spice: Reduce or omit cayenne.
- Sweetness: Add an extra tablespoon of brown or coconut sugar for sweeter seasoning.
- Extra heat: Add chili powder to the spice blend.
How to make blackened cod:
Step 1
Mix the smoked paprika, dried oregano, coconut or brown sugar, salt, black pepper, onion and garlic powders, cayenne and dried basil in a small bowl or jar to make the blackened seasoning.
Step 2
Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture so the seasoning adheres and the fish sears properly.
Step 3
Brush both sides of each fillet lightly with cooking oil.
Step 4
Evenly coat both sides of the fillets with the blackened seasoning.
Step 5
Heat a medium skillet or cast iron pan over medium heat and add the remaining oil. Once hot, add the seasoned cod fillets and cook about 3–4 minutes per side, until the fish flakes easily and is opaque throughout.
Top Tips:
- Choose fillets about 1 inch thick for the best results; thinner pieces require less cooking time.
- Adjust cooking time for larger or smaller fillets so the fish cooks through without drying out.
- Let the fish rest for 2–3 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute.
- Doneness check: fish is done when it flakes easily and is opaque; internal temperature should reach 145°F if using a thermometer.
- Store leftover seasoning in a sealed jar for future use.
How to serve:
Blackened cod is versatile. Popular serving ideas include:
- Squeeze fresh lime or lemon over the fillets before serving.
- Serve with cooked vegetables such as asparagus, broccoli or cauliflower.
- Top with a fruit salsa, mango habanero salsa, or chunky guacamole for contrast.
- Serve with a buttery Cajun-style sauce for extra richness.
- Use the fillets to make blackened fish tacos.
Blackened cod FAQs:
Blackened fish is coated in a robust spice blend and cooked in a very hot pan, forming a dark, flavorful crust on the surface.
Yes. Prepare the fillets with oil and seasoning, then bake at 400°F on a parchment-lined sheet for about 10–12 minutes, until cooked through.
Yes. Cook at 400°F in the air fryer for approximately 10–12 minutes, depending on fillet thickness.
Black cod (sablefish or butterfish) is not a true cod species. It has a rich, buttery flavor and silky texture and is prized in many cuisines.
Store leftover cooked cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
Other seafood recipes you will love:
-
Air Fryer Fish Sticks (from frozen)
-
Easy Blackened Mahi Mahi
-
Quick Air Fryer Frozen Shrimp
-
Easy Air Fryer Scallops with Lemon Butter
If you try this recipe, consider leaving a review. Enjoy experimenting with this simple, flavorful blackened cod!
Recipe
Blackened Cod
Equipment
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Skillet or pan
Ingredients
- 2 6 oz pieces of fresh cod (about 170 grams each)
- 3 tablespoon cooking oil (olive or avocado oil)
Blackened Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika (or regular/sweet paprika)
- 1 tablespoon oregano
- 1 tablespoon coconut sugar (or brown sugar)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon basil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne
Instructions
Blackened Seasoning Instructions
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Mix the smoked paprika, oregano, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, coconut sugar, cayenne and basil. Store unused seasoning in an airtight jar.
Cod Instructions
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Pat each cod fillet dry with a paper towel.
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Brush both sides with a small amount of oil.
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Evenly coat each side with the blackened seasoning.
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Heat a medium skillet or cast iron pan over medium heat and add the remaining oil.
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When the pan is hot, add the seasoned fillets and cook about 3–4 minutes per side until cooked through and flaky.
Notes
- Nutritional values are estimates and will vary based on exact ingredients used.
- Adjust the spices in the blackened seasoning to suit your taste.
- Store leftover cooked cod in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.