If you’re craving a dish that is bursting with bright, fresh flavors and comes together in a flash, the Baked Cod with Lemon Garlic Butter Recipe is absolutely your new best friend in the kitchen. This delightful meal combines tender cod fillets baked to flaky perfection with a luscious lemon garlic butter sauce that enhances every bite. It is simple yet elegant, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests without the fuss. Trust me, once you taste that citrusy, buttery goodness paired with the mild, flaky cod, you’ll want to make this recipe again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but each plays a key role in creating the delicious layers of flavor. From the fresh lemons adding a vibrant zing, to the garlic and butter that bring warmth and richness, every component contributes beautifully to the final dish.
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each): Choose fresh or thawed cod for tender, flaky fish that absorbs the flavors perfectly.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted): The buttery base that carries the garlic and lemon flavors with a silky texture.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed): Adds bright acidity to balance the richness of the butter.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the butter with aromatic depth and a subtle kick.
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest: Boosts lemon flavor without extra acidity, adding a lovely fragrance.
- ½ teaspoon paprika: Brings a gentle smoky warmth and beautiful color to the dish.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and seasons the fish evenly.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild heat for balance.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: For a bright herbal finish and pretty green flecks.
- Lemon slices (for garnish): Adds charm and an extra pop of citrus when serving.
How to Make Baked Cod with Lemon Garlic Butter Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F to ensure it’s nice and hot when you put the cod in to bake. Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Make the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, lemon zest, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This sauce is the star of the show, enveloping the cod in a luscious, flavorful coating as it bakes.
Step 3: Prepare the Cod Fillets
Pat your cod fillets dry with paper towels – this helps the butter sauce stick better and prevents sogginess. Place the fillets neatly in the prepared baking dish, spacing them evenly for even cooking.
Step 4: Add the Sauce and Bake
Spoon the lemon garlic butter sauce generously over each fillet, making sure every piece is well coated. Pop the baking dish into the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. You’ll know the cod is ready when it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork; the internal temperature should reach 145°F for safe consumption.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a fresh, vibrant finish. Don’t forget to add lemon slices as a garnish to brighten up the plate and enhance each bite with an extra burst of citrus aroma.
How to Serve Baked Cod with Lemon Garlic Butter Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley does wonders not only for flavor but for that inviting pop of color. The lemon slices serve double duty, both as a pretty accent and a way for guests to add an extra squeeze of fresh lemon, enhancing the dish’s brightness.
Side Dishes
This baked cod pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Think fluffy rice or buttery mashed potatoes to soak up the garlicky lemon butter, or a medley of roasted vegetables for a nutritious, colorful plate. Steamed green beans or a crisp garden salad also complement it wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve each fillet atop a bed of sautéed spinach or creamy polenta. Drizzle any remaining lemon garlic butter sauce over the top to keep everything moist and flavorful. You can also place the cod on a platter surrounded by thin lemon wheels and sprigs of parsley for a festive look that’s perfect for sharing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, place the cooled cod fillets in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Keep the sauce with the fish to maintain moisture and flavor, but store it separately if you want the fillets to stay firmer.
Freezing
While fresh is best, you can freeze cooked cod wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or stored in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
To warm up leftovers, gently reheat the cod in a low oven (about 300°F) for 10 minutes or until heated through, covering with foil to prevent drying out. Microwaving is quicker but may result in a less flaky texture.
FAQs
Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?
Absolutely! While cod is ideal for its mild flavor and flaky texture, you can substitute haddock, tilapia, or halibut without compromising the delicious lemon garlic butter flavors.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the Baked Cod with Lemon Garlic Butter Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you avoid adding any breadcrumbs. It’s a great choice for those looking for a gluten-free dinner option.
How do I know when the cod is fully cooked?
The cod will turn opaque and flake easily when gently poked with a fork. For absolute certainty, check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
Can I prepare the lemon garlic butter sauce in advance?
Yes! You can mix up the butter sauce a few hours before baking. Keep it refrigerated and bring it back to room temperature before spooning over the fish.
What can I add for a crunchy topping?
Try sprinkling seasoned breadcrumbs mixed with a bit of grated Parmesan cheese over the fillets before baking. This will add a delightful crunchy texture without overpowering the lemon garlic butter flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Cod with Lemon Garlic Butter Recipe is truly a treasure for anyone who loves simple, fresh, and wholesome meals with a gourmet touch. It’s effortless enough for a busy weeknight but refined enough to serve to friends and family with pride. Once you try this, it’s bound to become a regular in your recipe rotation, bringing that perfect harmony of buttery, lemony, and garlicky flavors to your table every time.
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Baked Cod with Lemon Garlic Butter Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Mediterranean-Inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Baked Cod with Lemon Garlic Butter is a light, flavorful dish perfect for a healthy and easy dinner. The cod fillets are baked to perfection with a zesty lemon garlic butter sauce, enhanced by paprika and fresh parsley for a Mediterranean-inspired taste. Ready in just 25 minutes, this recipe offers a low-carb, gluten-free option that’s perfect served alongside steamed vegetables, rice, or potatoes.
Ingredients
Fish
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Lemon slices (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F and lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Lemon Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, lemon zest, paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Arrange Cod Fillets: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture and place them evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Apply Butter Mixture: Spoon the lemon garlic butter mixture evenly over each cod fillet, ensuring they are well coated for maximum flavor.
- Bake the Fish: Bake the cod in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque, flakes easily with a fork, and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the baked cod from the oven, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley, and garnish with lemon slices. Serve immediately alongside your choice of vegetables, rice, or potatoes.
Notes
- You can substitute cod with haddock, tilapia, or halibut for variation.
- For added texture and crunch, sprinkle seasoned breadcrumbs on top before baking.
- Ensure not to overcook the fish to keep it moist and tender.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best citrus flavor.
