Lemon Butter Baked Cod

Lemon Butter Baked Cod is a simple yet elegant seafood dish that brings out the natural tenderness of cod fillets with the rich, zesty flavor of lemon and butter. It’s light, flavorful, and easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for both busy weeknights and special dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare and cook in under 30 minutes

• Healthy and light, yet full of flavor

• Uses simple, everyday ingredients

• Perfect for a variety of diets, including low-carb

• Easily adaptable with herbs or spice variations

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cod fillets

• Unsalted butter

• Fresh lemon juice

• Garlic cloves

• Fresh parsley

• Salt

• Black pepper

• Paprika (optional)

• Red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish large enough to hold the cod fillets in a single layer.

2. In a small bowl, melt the butter and stir in the lemon juice and minced garlic.

3. Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and optional paprika or red pepper flakes.

4. Place the cod in the baking dish and pour the lemon butter mixture evenly over the fillets.

5. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

6. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Preparation time: 10 minutes

• Cooking time: 12–15 minutes

Variations

• Herb Version: Add chopped fresh dill, thyme, or rosemary to the butter mixture.

• Spicy Version: Use more red pepper flakes or a touch of cayenne for heat.

• Citrus Twist: Add a splash of orange or lime juice along with the lemon.

• Garlic Butter Crust: Top with breadcrumbs mixed with melted garlic butter before baking for a crunchy texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: Warm gently in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes, or microwave on medium power in 30-second intervals until heated through.

FAQs

How do I know when the cod is cooked?

The cod is done when it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).

Can I use frozen cod fillets?

Yes, just be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before baking to avoid excess moisture.

What sides go well with lemon butter cod?

Steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, rice, or a simple green salad all pair well with this dish.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

You can prepare the lemon butter mixture ahead of time, but it’s best to bake the cod fresh for optimal texture.

What if I don’t have fresh lemon juice?

You can substitute bottled lemon juice, but fresh is recommended for the best flavor.

Is cod a good fish for baking?

Yes, cod is firm and mild, making it an ideal choice for baking with sauces like lemon butter.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative.

Can I add vegetables to the baking dish?

Yes, thinly sliced zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus work well and can bake alongside the cod.

How do I avoid overcooking the cod?

Check the cod a couple of minutes before the recommended time. It should be just cooked through and flake easily.

What other fish can I use instead of cod?

Haddock, tilapia, or halibut are all good substitutes for this recipe.

Conclusion

Lemon Butter Baked Cod is a flavorful and versatile dish that’s both nutritious and satisfying. With its delicate balance of buttery richness and citrusy brightness, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you serve it with vegetables, rice, or potatoes, this dish delivers a delicious and healthy meal with minimal effort.