Lemon Butter Baked Cod

This lemon butter baked cod has become my go-to recipe when I need an impressive yet effortless dinner option. The delicate cod fillets bathe in a bright, garlicky lemon butter that creates the perfect balance of richness and zesty freshness.

I first made this dish when entertaining unexpected dinner guests and had limited time to prepare. The elegant result and their enthusiastic compliments convinced me to add it to my regular rotation.

Ingredients

• 4 cod fillets: 6 oz each look for thick fillets with firm white flesh and no fishy odor
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter: melted using unsalted allows you to control the saltiness
• 2 tbsp olive oil: helps prevent butter from burning and adds richness
• 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice: about 1 lemon always use fresh for brightest flavor
• 3 garlic cloves: minced finely mince for even distribution of flavor
• 1 tsp lemon zest: intensifies lemon flavor without additional acidity
• 1/2 tsp paprika: adds subtle warmth and beautiful color
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme: dried herbs work perfectly in this quick baked dish
• Salt and black pepper: to taste
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley: for garnish adds color and fresh herbal notes
• Lemon slices: for serving provides visual appeal and extra flavor if squeezed over

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 400°F and prepare your baking dish with a light coating of olive oil. This temperature creates the perfect environment for cooking the cod quickly while keeping it moist. Allow at least 10 minutes for proper preheating.

Prepare the Lemon Butter Sauce:

Combine melted butter with olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, lemon zest, paprika, thyme, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Whisk thoroughly until all ingredients are fully incorporated. This sauce is the flavor foundation of the dish, so take time to balance the seasonings to your preference.

Arrange the Cod Fillets:

Place your cod fillets in a single layer in your prepared baking dish, leaving a small space between each piece. This arrangement ensures even cooking and allows the sauce to surround each fillet. If your fillets have a thinner end, you can tuck it under to create more uniform thickness.

Bake the Cod:

Pour the lemon butter sauce evenly over the fillets, making sure to coat each piece generously. The sauce will not only flavor the fish but help keep it moist during baking. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, watching carefully. The perfect cod is just opaque throughout and flakes easily with gentle pressure from a fork.

Serve:

Transfer the cod to serving plates, spooning additional sauce from the baking dish over each fillet. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices for a vibrant presentation. The contrast of the bright herbs against the white fish creates an appealing visual.

The magic of this dish truly lies in the lemon butter sauce. I once accidentally doubled the garlic in my haste, and my family declared it the best version yet. Sometimes kitchen mistakes lead to delicious discoveries.

Choosing the Right Cod

When selecting cod for this recipe, look for fillets with a translucent appearance and firm texture. Fresh cod should smell clean with no strong fishy odor. If using frozen cod, thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight and pat dry with paper towels before cooking to remove excess moisture. This ensures your fish will bake properly rather than steam in its own liquid.

Perfect Pairings

This lemon butter baked cod pairs beautifully with simple sides that complement without overwhelming. Try serving it with roasted asparagus, steamed green beans, or a light herb salad. For a more substantial meal, accompany with fluffy basmati rice or small roasted potatoes that can soak up the delicious sauce. A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio makes this weeknight dinner feel like a special occasion.

Make It Your Own

This versatile recipe welcomes thoughtful adaptations. Mediterranean lovers can add halved cherry tomatoes and olives to the baking dish. For an herbaceous version, increase the herbs with additions like dill or tarragon. Those preferring a richer flavor might sprinkle a light dusting of grated parmesan over the fillets in the final minutes of baking. The fundamental technique remains the same, allowing endless personalization.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your cod releases too much water during baking, pat the fillets extremely dry before placing in the baking dish. For extra insurance against watery results, you can salt the fillets lightly and let them rest for 15 minutes before patting dry again. This draws out additional moisture before cooking begins.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of cod works best for this dish?

Fresh or frozen cod fillets work well. If using frozen cod, be sure to thaw and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture.

→ Can I substitute butter in this recipe?

Yes, you can use ghee or a plant-based butter substitute for a dairy-free option. It will still provide a rich flavor.

→ How do I know when the fish is cooked?

The cod is ready when it becomes opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Baking time may vary based on the thickness of the fillets.

→ Can I make this dish spicy?

Absolutely! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the lemon butter sauce for a bit of heat.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh green salad.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the cod.