Delicate, flaky cod fillets meet the bright freshness of lemon and the silky richness of butter in this refined yet approachable dish. This Lemon Butter Baked Cod offers the perfect balance of freshness and indulgence,light enough for a weekday dinner yet elegant enough to serve at a dinner party. With minimal preparation and a quick bake, it’s a masterclass in simplicity done exceptionally well.
Ingredients List
- 4 fresh cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- ½ tsp paprika
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon slices, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Butter Sauce
In a small bowl, combine melted butter, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well blended.
Step 3: Arrange the Cod Fillets
Pat cod fillets dry with paper towels. Place them in the baking dish in a single layer. Spoon the lemon butter sauce evenly over each fillet.
Step 4: Bake the Cod
Bake for 12–15 minutes, depending on thickness, until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Avoid overbaking to preserve tenderness.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and garnish with lemon slices before serving.
Cook Time
15 minutes
Servings
4 servings
Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)
Calories: 250
Protein: 28g
Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 1g
Sugar: 0g
Sodium: 190mg
Storage Instructions
Store cooled cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5–7 minutes, adding a touch of extra butter or olive oil to keep it moist.
Suggestions
- Serve with steamed asparagus, roasted baby potatoes, or a fresh green salad.
- For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan over the fillets before baking.
- This recipe works beautifully with haddock or halibut as well.
Seasonal Relevance
Perfect year-round, but especially fitting in spring and summer when bright, citrus flavors shine. In cooler months, pair with warm sides like garlic mashed potatoes or sautéed spinach.
Conclusion
Lemon Butter Baked Cod is proof that simplicity can be utterly delicious. The bright acidity of lemon cuts through the richness of butter, creating a dish that’s vibrant yet comforting. Easy to prepare, stunning to serve, and universally loved, it’s a go-to recipe for both everyday dining and special occasions.
Lemon Butter Baked Cod Recipe
4
servings5
minutes15
minutes250
kcalThis Lemon Butter Baked Cod is a fresh, flavorful seafood dish featuring tender cod fillets baked in a rich lemon-garlic butter sauce. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s an elegant yet easy recipe perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
4 fresh cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
3 cloves garlic, finely minced
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp lemon zest
½ tsp paprika
¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Lemon slices, for garnish
Directions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
- Pat cod fillets dry and place in the baking dish. Spoon lemon butter sauce evenly over each fillet.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes or until fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Garnish with parsley and lemon slices before serving.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Works well with haddock or halibut as an alternative to cod.
- Add grated Parmesan before baking for extra richness.
- Avoid overbaking to keep the fish tender and moist.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?
Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before baking to ensure the sauce adheres well and the fish bakes evenly.
Q2: How do I prevent cod from drying out?
Bake at the recommended temperature and check for doneness early. Cod should flake easily but remain moist in the center.
Q3: Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can prepare the lemon butter sauce up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Warm it slightly before spooning over the fish.
