Looking for a healthy, quick, and flavorful seafood dinner? This Lemon Butter Baked Cod is light, bright, and ready in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or an elegant weekend meal. The mild, flaky cod pairs beautifully with a zesty lemon butter sauce, making every bite fresh and satisfying. It’s low in calories, high in protein, and naturally gluten-free—ideal for a balanced lifestyle.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fast and Easy: Just 10 minutes of prep and a short bake time.
- Nutritious: Cod is lean, high in protein, and packed with essential nutrients.
- Bright Flavor: The lemon-garlic butter adds a refreshing tang to every bite.
- Versatile: Pairs well with vegetables, grains, or salad for a complete meal.
Ingredients
- 4 (6 oz) cod fillets
- ¼ cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp dried thyme (or 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Lemon slices, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
Set oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or non-stick spray. - Make Lemon Butter Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, lemon zest, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. - Arrange and Season Cod:
Place cod fillets in the baking dish. Spoon the lemon butter sauce over the fillets, coating them evenly. - Bake:
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Thicker fillets may need an extra minute or two. - Serve:
Garnish with chopped parsley and fresh lemon slices. Serve hot with your favorite side dish.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Cod: Thawed frozen cod works well, but fresh fillets give the best texture.
- Don’t Overcook: Cod dries out quickly—watch closely toward the end of the cook time.
- Customize the Flavor: Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, or swap in dill or basil for a different herb twist.
- Try Other Fish: This method works great with haddock, tilapia, or halibut.
Serving Ideas
- Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, steamed broccoli, or sautéed green beans.
- Grains: Wild rice, couscous, quinoa, or garlic butter pasta.
- Salads: A fresh spinach salad or citrus-dressed greens.
- Add Crunch: Serve with roasted potatoes or a crisp slaw for texture contrast.
Storage & Leftovers
- Refrigerate: Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Freeze: Wrap tightly in foil or place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat Gently: Warm in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes. Microwave reheating works too, but heat in short bursts to avoid overcooking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen cod?
Yes! Just thaw completely and pat dry before baking.
How do I know when cod is done?
It will flake easily with a fork and turn opaque. Internal temperature should be 145°F (63°C).
Can I make the lemon butter sauce in advance?
Absolutely! Mix it up to 3 days ahead and store in the fridge. Reheat gently before using.
What should I do with leftovers?
Refrigerate or freeze as directed above. Great in fish tacos or over salad the next day!
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Butter Baked Cod is proof that simple ingredients can create a truly satisfying meal. It’s quick, light, and bursting with fresh flavor—ideal for health-conscious eaters and seafood lovers alike. Whether you’re cooking for family or guests, this easy recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.