Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Cod recipe that promises a burst of flavors with every bite. This dish combines the delicate texture of cod with the bright zestiness of lemon and the rich depth of garlic butter, making it a perfect meal for any occasion.

It’s an easy-to-make recipe that comes together in under 30 minutes, offering a healthy yet indulgent option for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering. The garlic butter sauce not only infuses the cod with flavor but also keeps it wonderfully moist as it bakes to perfection.

Ingredients Needed for This Recipe

4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 tablespoons unsalted butter

4 garlic cloves, minced
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions for Making Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Cod

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Place the cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle olive oil over each fillet and season with salt and pepper.

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and stir in the lemon zest and juice.
Spoon the garlic butter mixture evenly over the cod fillets. Sprinkle with chopped parsley.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cod is flaky and cooked through.

Serve immediately, spooning any of the buttery sauce from the pan over the fillets. Enjoy your Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Cod with a side of your choice, such as roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.

Tips for Perfecting the Recipe

Selecting the Cod: Freshness is key when it comes to seafood. Look for cod fillets that are moist, with a clean smell and a firm texture. If fresh cod isn’t available, frozen fillets can work well, but make sure to thaw them properly in the refrigerator overnight.

Achieving the Right Doneness: Cod cooks quickly, and overcooking can lead to a dry, rubbery texture. Keep an eye on the fillets as they bake and check for doneness by gently pressing the top of the fillet with a fork. If it flakes easily, it’s ready.

Enhancing Flavor: For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the garlic butter sauce. The acidity and aroma of the wine can elevate the dish to a new level.

Herb Variations: While parsley is traditional, feel free to experiment with other herbs such as dill, chives, or tarragon, which complement fish beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

Complementary Sides: Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Cod pairs wonderfully with light and refreshing sides. Consider serving it with a quinoa salad, steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or a simple mixed greens salad dressed with a vinaigrette.

For a Heartier Meal: If you’re looking for something more substantial, serve the cod over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, with a side of risotto, or alongside a portion of linguine tossed in olive oil and garlic.

Wine Pairing: A crisp, dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with this dish, complementing its lemony butter flavors and enhancing the overall dining experience.

Storage Tips

Refrigerating Leftovers: If you have leftovers, allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Properly stored, the baked cod can be refrigerated for up to 2 days.

Freezing: While you can freeze cooked cod, it’s worth noting that the texture may change slightly upon thawing. Freeze in a well-sealed container or freezer bag for up to 1 month for the best quality. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating: Gently reheat leftovers in the oven at a low temperature, around 275°F (135°C), covered with foil to prevent drying out. Alternatively, a microwave can be used, but be careful to avoid overcooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of fish for this recipe? Yes, this recipe is quite versatile. Other white fish like haddock, tilapia, or halibut can also be used successfully with this cooking method and flavor profile.

What can I do if my sauce separates? If your garlic butter sauce begins to separate, it’s often due to overheating. To fix this, remove the sauce from the heat, and whisk vigorously. You can also add a splash of cold water to help emulsify the sauce again.

How do I prevent the cod from sticking to the pan? Ensuring your baking sheet is well-greased with either olive oil or a non-stick cooking spray is key. Using parchment paper or a silicone baking mat also offers an effective non-stick surface.

Is this dish healthy? Yes, cod is a lean protein source that’s low in fat and high in vitamins and minerals. The addition of olive oil and butter, in moderation, contributes healthy fats. Pairing the dish with vegetables makes for a balanced and nutritious meal.

Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Cod

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Ingredients

4 cod fillets about 6 ounces each
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 tablespoons unsalted butter

4 garlic cloves minced
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Place the cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle olive oil over each fillet and season with salt and pepper.
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and stir in the lemon zest and juice.
Spoon the garlic butter mixture evenly over the cod fillets. Sprinkle with chopped parsley.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cod is flaky and cooked through.
Serve immediately, spooning any of the buttery sauce from the pan over the fillets. Enjoy your Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Cod with a side of your choice, such as roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.