There’s something magical about the combination of lemon, garlic, and butter that transforms a simple cod fillet into an extraordinary dinner. This Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Cod is one of those effortless recipes that delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort—perfect for busy weeknights when you want something impressive without the fuss.
The tender, flaky cod bathes in a silky butter sauce infused with bright lemon and aromatic garlic, creating a dish that feels both comforting and elegant. Even if you’re not typically a seafood enthusiast, this foolproof recipe might just change your mind about cooking fish at home.
Why You’ll Love This
- Quick and easy: Ready in just 45 minutes with minimal hands-on time—perfect for busy weeknights.
- Foolproof method: Even if you’re new to cooking fish, this recipe delivers perfectly flaky cod every time.
- Impressive presentation: Looks and tastes like a restaurant dish, but requires just a handful of ingredients.
- Naturally healthy: Low-carb, high-protein, and gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.
- Versatile: Pairs beautifully with countless side dishes from rice to roasted vegetables.
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets, about 6 ounces each
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Heat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Place cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper.
- In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Remove from heat and stir in lemon zest and juice.
- Spoon the garlic butter mixture evenly over each cod fillet. Sprinkle with the chopped fresh parsley.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until fish flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout.
- Serve immediately, spooning any remaining buttery sauce from the pan over the fillets. Pairs well with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
Tips & Variations
- Fish substitutions: This recipe works beautifully with other white fish like haddock, tilapia, or halibut—just adjust cooking time based on thickness.
- Herb options: Try fresh dill, thyme, or basil instead of (or in addition to) parsley for different flavor profiles.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter mixture for a gentle heat that complements the lemon.
- Make ahead: Prepare the butter mixture up to 24 hours in advance and store in the refrigerator. Just melt briefly before using.
- Wine pairing: Add a splash of white wine to the butter mixture for an elevated sauce.
- Dairy-free option: Substitute olive oil for the butter for a Mediterranean twist.
Serving Suggestions
This baked cod pairs wonderfully with simple sides that won’t overshadow its delicate flavor. Try serving it with fluffy rice pilaf or roasted baby potatoes to soak up the delicious lemon garlic butter sauce. For a complete meal, add a side of steamed asparagus, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a light green salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette.
For a special touch, serve with a side of homemade tartar sauce or a dollop of herb-infused Greek yogurt. A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio makes this simple weeknight dinner feel like a special occasion.
Notes
- The cod is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) or flakes easily with a fork.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- For the best results, use fresh cod rather than frozen and thawed, as it tends to release less water during baking.
- If using frozen cod, thaw completely and pat very dry before cooking to prevent a watery sauce.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely and pat it very dry with paper towels before cooking to prevent excess moisture from diluting the sauce.
How do I know when the cod is cooked properly?
Cod is done when it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. For precise results, the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the butter mixture ahead of time. Fish tends to dry out when reheated, so I recommend cooking it just before serving.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover cod?
Gently reheat in a 275°F (135°C) oven covered with foil and a splash of water to create steam, which helps prevent the fish from drying out.
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