If you’re searching for a dish that feels both elegant and comforting, the Baked Cod with Orange Beurre Blanc Recipe is truly a showstopper. This delightful recipe combines tender, flaky cod with a citrusy, velvety sauce that brings southern French charm right to your kitchen. The balance of the bright orange notes with the rich buttery sauce makes each bite an irresistible celebration of fresh flavors and textures. Perfect for a special dinner or a sophisticated weeknight treat, this recipe will quickly become one of your go-to favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Baked Cod with Orange Beurre Blanc Recipe lies in its simple, carefully selected ingredients. Each one plays a vital role, from the fresh cod to the vibrant orange zest, creating layers of flavor and an inviting aroma that is nothing short of divine.
- Cod fillets: Choose fresh, firm fillets around 6 ounces each for the best flaky texture after baking.
- Salt and pepper: Basic seasonings to bring out the natural flavors of the fish and the sauce.
- Olive oil: Used for searing the cod, adding a subtle fruity richness and helping to form a golden crust.
- Orange (zested and juiced): Provides that bright, citrusy kick that elevates the beurre blanc sauce to memorable heights.
- Dry white wine: Essential for deglazing the skillet and layering in delicate acidity.
- White wine vinegar: Adds a clean, tangy note that balances the butter’s richness in the sauce.
- Shallot (finely chopped): Gives the beurre blanc a mild onion flavor that melds beautifully with the orange and buttery components.
- Heavy cream: Softens and enriches the sauce, creating a smooth, luscious texture.
- Unsalted butter (cubed and chilled): The heart of the beurre blanc, slowly whisked in for a glossy, velvety finish.
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish: Adds a burst of color and a fresh herbal note to the finished dish.
How to Make Baked Cod with Orange Beurre Blanc Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is warming up, gently pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels; this step is crucial for achieving a nice sear. Then, season the fillets with salt and pepper. Proper seasoning helps highlight the fish’s natural sweetness.
Step 2: Sear the Cod
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, carefully lay the cod fillets in the pan and sear them for about 2 minutes on each side. This quick sear gives the fish a beautiful golden crust that locks in moisture. Be gentle when flipping to keep the fillets intact.
Step 3: Bake the Cod
Transfer the seared cod fillets into a baking dish and place them in the preheated oven. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the cod flakes easily with a fork. This gentle baking finishes cooking the fish evenly without drying it out, ensuring a tender, flaky bite every time.
Step 4: Make the Orange Beurre Blanc Sauce
Using the same skillet, pour in the orange juice, orange zest, dry white wine, white wine vinegar, and finely chopped shallots. Bring the mixture to a simmer and allow it to reduce by half. This reduction intensifies the citrus and wine flavors, creating a concentrated base for your sauce.
Step 5: Finish the Sauce with Cream and Butter
Once the liquid has reduced, stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer gently for 1 to 2 minutes. Then, gradually whisk in the chilled butter cubes a few pieces at a time. This slow incorporation thickens the sauce and gives it a rich, glossy texture. Finish with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Plate your perfectly baked cod and generously drizzle the warm orange beurre blanc over the fillets. Sprinkle fresh parsley or chives on top to add a burst of color and a fresh herbal note that complements the citrus beautifully.
How to Serve Baked Cod with Orange Beurre Blanc Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs such as parsley or chives are the perfect garnish for this dish—they not only create a stunning visual contrast but provide a light, fresh aroma that balances the buttery sauce. You can also add a thin orange twist or microgreens for an extra touch of elegance.
Side Dishes
To round out your meal, consider serving this baked cod alongside buttery mashed potatoes or a delicate risotto, which will beautifully soak up the luscious orange beurre blanc. Roasted asparagus or a crisp green salad also make wonderful, refreshing companions that keep the plate vibrant.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, place your cod fillet on a bed of wilted spinach or ribbons of zucchini noodles. Drizzle the orange beurre blanc artistically around the plate for a restaurant-style presentation. Edible flowers or thin slices of orange on the side will bring an eye-catching and festive flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover baked cod and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cod is best enjoyed within 2 days for optimal freshness and flavor, while the sauce should be stored separately to maintain its silky texture.
Freezing
While cod can be frozen, I recommend freezing only the cooked fish without the sauce for better texture. Wrap the fillets tightly in plastic wrap and foil before placing them in the freezer. Thaw gently in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat the cod gently in a low oven (around 275°F) to prevent drying out. Warm the sauce separately over low heat, whisking occasionally to retain its smoothness. Avoid microwaving when possible, as it can cause the sauce to separate.
FAQs
Can I use a different fish for this recipe?
Absolutely! While cod is ideal for its mild flavor and flaky texture, other white fish like halibut or sea bass work wonderfully with the orange beurre blanc sauce.
What type of white wine is best?
A dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs perfectly, adding crisp acidity without overpowering the delicate flavors of the sauce.
Can I make the sauce dairy-free?
Traditional beurre blanc relies on butter and cream, but you can experiment with coconut cream and a vegan butter substitute. Keep in mind the flavor and texture will differ slightly.
How do I know when the cod is perfectly cooked?
Look for the fish to be opaque all the way through and flake easily with a fork. Overcooking will make it dry, so timing is key during baking.
Can I prepare parts of this dish in advance?
You can chop the shallots and zest the orange ahead of time, or even prepare the orange beurre blanc sauce partially but finish whisking in the butter just before serving for the best texture.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Cod with Orange Beurre Blanc Recipe is an absolute treasure for anyone wanting to create a memorable, flavorful fish dish with a touch of elegance. It’s approachable enough for a weekday meal but impressive enough for entertaining guests. Trust me, once you try this harmonious blend of citrus, butter, and fresh cod, it will quickly earn a permanent spot in your recipe collection. Happy cooking and enjoy every delightful bite!
Print
Baked Cod with Orange Beurre Blanc Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Description
This elegant Baked Cod with Orange Beurre Blanc combines tender, flaky cod fillets with a rich and tangy orange beurre blanc sauce. The cod is first seared to develop a light golden crust, then baked to perfection, while the sauce is crafted by reducing white wine, orange juice, and shallots, finished with cream and chilled butter for a velvety texture. Garnished with fresh herbs, this dish is perfect for a sophisticated weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Fish
- 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Orange Beurre Blanc Sauce
- 1 orange (zested and juiced)
- 1 cup dry white wine
- 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
- 1 shallot, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cubed and chilled
Garnish
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper to taste.
- Sear the Cod: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the cod fillets and sear them for about 2 minutes per side until they develop a light golden crust.
- Bake the Cod: Transfer the seared cod fillets to a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily when tested with a fork.
- Make the Orange Beurre Blanc Sauce: Using the same skillet, combine the orange juice and zest, dry white wine, white wine vinegar, and the finely chopped shallot. Bring the mixture to a simmer and reduce it by half to concentrate the flavors.
- Finish the Sauce: Add the heavy cream to the reduced liquid and simmer for 1 to 2 minutes. Gradually whisk in the chilled, cubed butter a few pieces at a time, creating a smooth, glossy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Plate the baked cod fillets and generously drizzle the orange beurre blanc sauce over them. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
Notes
- Ensure the butter is chilled before adding to prevent the sauce from breaking and to achieve a smooth texture.
- Use fresh orange juice and zest for the best, most vibrant flavor in the sauce.
- Do not overbake the cod; it should remain moist and flaky.
- The sauce can be whisked off heat if the pan is too hot to prevent the butter from melting too quickly and separating.
- Pair this dish with steamed vegetables or a light salad and roasted potatoes or rice for a complete meal.
