Broiled Cod with Paprika (Low-Cal, 1g Carb) – A Quick & Flavorful Dinner

Looking for a fast, healthy, and delicious dinner option? This Broiled Cod with Paprika is a game-changer! With just a handful of simple ingredients, you get a flaky, tender fish packed with smoky and savory flavors. Plus, it’s low in calories, gluten-free, and only 1g of carbs per serving, making it a perfect choice for anyone watching their intake.

Whether you’re meal-prepping, cooking for family, or need a quick weeknight meal, this recipe comes together in just 16 minutes—yes, you read that right! Let’s dive in.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Key Benefits

• Quick & Easy – Ready in just 16 minutes from start to finish
• Healthy & Low-Carb – Only 164 calories and 1g carb per serving
• Minimal Ingredients – Uses basic pantry staples for seasoning
• Versatile – Great on its own, in fish tacos, or served with a fresh salad

Taste & Texture

This broiled cod is:

• Mild & slightly sweet – Cod’s natural flavor shines
• Smoky & savory – Thanks to the paprika and seasoning blend
• Moist & flaky – Perfectly broiled to retain juiciness

Dietary Attributes

• Gluten-Free
• Low-Carb
• High-Protein

Ingredients & Substitutions

Ingredient List

• 2 pounds cod fillets (or 1 pound with half the recipe)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 ¼ teaspoons paprika (if using smoked paprika, use 1 teaspoon)
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ⅓ teaspoon salt
• Juice from ½ lemon
• 1 tablespoon salted butter

Notes on Quality

• Use fresh cod whenever possible for the best texture and flavor.
• If using frozen cod, thaw completely and pat dry before broiling.
• Smoked paprika adds a deeper flavor, but plain paprika works well too.

Possible Substitutions

• Swap cod for another firm white fish like haddock or orange roughy.
• Use ghee or unsalted butter if preferred.
• Adjust the seasoning based on your preference—cayenne for heat, cumin for warmth.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Move an oven rack to the highest position and preheat the broiler to 500°F (medium setting).
2. Line a half-sheet pan with foil and grease with cooking spray.
3. Lightly rinse the cod fillets and feel for any bones to remove. Pat dry with paper towels. Cut large pieces into serving portions and place them on the prepared pan.
4. In a small bowl, mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the fish and brush evenly on both sides.

• Sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly over each piece of fish and rub into the surface.
• Squeeze lemon juice over the cod and place small pieces of butter on each fillet.
• Broil the cod 4 inches from the heat source for 6-8 minutes, depending on thickness. The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork.
• If the fillets brown too quickly but aren’t cooked through, move the pan to the middle rack and continue broiling.
• Serve immediately, spooning any pan juices over the fish.

Expert Tips & Tricks

Best Practices

• For even cooking, make sure the cod fillets are similar in thickness.
• If using thicker fillets, check for doneness at 130°F for a moist result, or 145°F if you prefer it more well done.
• Keep an eye on the fish while broiling—it cooks quickly.

Common Mistakes

• Not drying the fish properly—excess moisture prevents proper browning.
• Using a glass baking dish instead of a metal pan (glass can shatter under broiler heat).
• Overcooking—broiled cod should stay moist and flaky, not dry.

Time-Saving Tips

• Prep the seasoning mix in advance for quick assembly.
• Use pre-cut fillets to skip cutting portions yourself.
• Make a larger batch and store leftovers for easy meal prep.

Serving Suggestions

Pairings

• Serve with roasted asparagus, sautéed spinach, or a fresh green salad.
• Pair with a low-carb cauliflower mash or roasted sweet potatoes for a heartier meal.

Presentation Ideas

• Garnish with chopped parsley and lemon slices for a fresh, bright touch.
• Drizzle with a garlic butter sauce for extra richness.

Beverage Pairings

• A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
• Sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing non-alcoholic option.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover Storage

• Store leftover broiled cod in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months in a sealed bag.

Reheating Methods

• Oven: Bake at 300°F for 10 minutes to retain moisture.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pan with a little butter on low heat.
• Microwave: Use short bursts of 30 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Substitutions & Adjustments

Can I use frozen cod?
Yes, just make sure to thaw completely and pat dry before broiling.

Can I use another type of fish?
Absolutely! Haddock, orange roughy, or tilapia work well with this recipe.

Troubleshooting

Why is my fish dry?
Overcooking is the likely culprit. Broil only until it flakes easily and monitor closely.

Can I make this spicier?
Yes! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or use hot paprika for extra heat.

Variations & Customizations

Dietary Adaptations

• To make this dairy-free, swap butter for olive oil or vegan butter.
• For a keto version, add more butter and serve with a high-fat side like avocado.

Flavor Twists

• Mediterranean Style: Add dried oregano, thyme, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
• Cajun-Inspired: Swap paprika for Cajun seasoning for a bold, spicy kick.
• Garlic Parmesan: Top with grated Parmesan cheese before broiling.

Seasonal/Holiday Versions

• Summer: Serve over grilled veggies or fresh corn salad.
• Winter: Pair with a warm side like buttery mashed cauliflower.

More Delicious Recipes to Try

Looking for more easy and flavorful dinner ideas? Check out these recipes:

• Creamy Chicken Marsala – A Perfect Valentine’s Day Dinner
• Sheet Pan Gnocchi – The Ultimate Easy 30-Minute Dinner
• Another Delicious Creamy Chicken Marsala Recipe

Follow on Pinterest for More Recipes

Find more tasty meal ideas and inspiration on Pinterest: Cooking With Callie Recipes

Try this broiled cod recipe and let me know how it turns out in the comments! Happy cooking

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