If you are looking for a bright, flavorful dish that feels like a warm hug from your kitchen, you have to try my Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Cod Recipe. This simple yet stunning baked cod recipe brings together the buttery richness, zesty freshness of lemon, and the bold kick of garlic in a way that makes every bite a celebration. Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests without fuss, this dish is a wonderful way to elevate cod into something unforgettable and wholesome.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Cod Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients that pack a punch. Each component plays a crucial role, whether it’s adding moisture, flavor depth, or vibrant color to the dish.
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each): Choose fresh or thawed fillets for the best flaky texture and mild, sweet flavor.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted): Adds a luscious, rich base that carries the garlic and lemon flavors beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Enhances the buttery sauce and helps the cod cook evenly.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Provides a punchy aroma and sharpness that lifts the entire dish.
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest: Adds a bright, citrus fragrance and a pop of color.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice: Offers fresh acidity that balances the richness of butter.
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Brings a mild smokiness and subtle color to deepen the dish’s profile.
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and coaxing out natural flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds just enough heat and complexity.
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a hint of spice and warmth.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Introduces a fresh, herbaceous note and lovely green contrast.
- Lemon slices (for garnish): Perfect to brighten the presentation and add a fresh citrus burst at serving.
How to Make Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Cod Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by heating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). This temperature is ideal for gently baking cod, allowing it to cook through evenly while maintaining its delicate texture.
Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. This blend is your flavor powerhouse, marrying citrus brightness with savory, smoky notes and the irresistible aroma of garlic.
Step 3: Ready the Cod Fillets
Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to ensure a nice texture during baking. Then arrange them neatly in a 9 by 13-inch baking dish, giving each fillet room to soak up those gorgeous flavors.
Step 4: Add the Lemon Garlic Butter
Evenly drizzle the lemon butter mixture over each cod fillet. Making sure every piece is coated ensures that as the fish bakes, it absorbs all the delicious sauce, keeping it moist and flavorful.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake the cod for 12 to 15 minutes until it looks tender and flakes easily with a fork. If your fillets are on the thicker side, give them an extra 2 to 3 minutes. This gentle baking locks in moisture while allowing the garlic and lemon to work their magic.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the baked cod for a hint of freshness and a pop of color. Add lemon slices as a beautiful and bright garnish to complete this irresistible presentation.
How to Serve Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Cod Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like fresh parsley and lemon slices not only elevate the visual appeal but also add fresh herbaceous and citrus layers to each bite. For an extra touch, you can sprinkle a few more red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
Side Dishes
This Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Cod Recipe pairs wonderfully with light, complementary sides. Think fluffy steamed rice, garlic mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables like asparagus and Brussels sprouts for a balanced meal that lets the cod shine.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the cod over a bed of sautéed spinach or with a drizzle of a simple vinaigrette to contrast the richness. You can also plate it with a vibrant quinoa salad or some tangy pickled vegetables to bring brightness to the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover baked cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 2 days, making it a perfect option for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
If you want to freeze portions, wrap them tightly in foil and then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen cod cooked with lemon and butter stays tasty for up to 1 month, though the texture is best enjoyed fresh when possible.
Reheating
To reheat, place the cod gently in a baking dish and warm it in a 300-degree Fahrenheit oven for about 10 minutes. This ensures gentle reheating without drying out the fillets. Avoid the microwave if you can, because it can make fish tough.
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 also try this recipe with haddock, tilapia, or even halibut. Just watch cooking times based on thickness.
Is it necessary to use unsalted butter?
Unsalted butter is preferred here because it gives you control over the salt content. If you only have salted butter, reduce the added salt in the recipe to avoid over-seasoning.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it uses simple, fresh ingredients without any flour or breading. Just double-check that any additional sides or garnishes are gluten-free as well.
What if I don’t have smoked paprika?
No worries! You can substitute smoked paprika with regular paprika or even a pinch of cayenne pepper, depending on your spice preference. The smoked paprika adds depth, but the dish will still be delicious without it.
How can I make the recipe spicier?
To turn up the heat, increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce into the lemon garlic butter mixture. Just be careful to balance spice with the fresh lemon flavors.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Cod Recipe is one of those dishes that feels effortless but tastes like pure love on a plate. Its brightness, warmth, and comforting richness make it a go-to whenever you want something both nourishing and impressive. Give it a try—I promise it will become a favorite in your recipe rotation that you’ll want to share over and over again.
Print
Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Cod Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Cod recipe features tender, flaky cod fillets baked with a zesty lemon garlic butter sauce. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant meal, offering a healthy and delicious way to enjoy seafood with fresh herbs and a hint of spice.
Ingredients
Fish and Marinade
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Lemon slices (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the cod fillets evenly and thoroughly.
- Prepare the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper until well combined.
- Prepare the Cod Fillets: Pat the cod fillets dry using paper towels to remove any excess moisture; then arrange them in a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure even cooking.
- Apply the Sauce: Pour the lemon garlic butter mixture evenly over each cod fillet, coating them thoroughly with the flavorful sauce.
- Bake the Cod: Bake the fillets in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the cod flakes easily with a fork. For thicker fillets, extend baking time by 2 to 3 minutes for proper doneness.
- Garnish and Serve: Once baked, sprinkle the cod with chopped fresh parsley and garnish each serving with lemon slices. Serve immediately to enjoy the fish at its best.
Notes
- Be sure not to overcook the cod as it can become dry; it should flake easily when done.
- Crushed red pepper flakes are optional and can be omitted or adjusted based on spice preference.
- You can substitute cod with other white fish like haddock or tilapia if desired.
- Serve with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- For a dairy-free version, replace butter with extra olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative.
