Baked Lemon-Garlic Cod with Butter Sauce Recipe
Introduction
This baked lemon-garlic cod is a quick and flavorful dish perfect for a weeknight dinner. The tender cod fillets are topped with a zesty butter sauce that adds richness and brightness to every bite.
Ingredients
- 4 (6 oz) cod fillets
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1/4 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon slices for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and arrange them in a baking dish.
- Step 2: In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Step 3: Pour the butter sauce evenly over the cod fillets, making sure each piece is well coated.
- Step 4: Bake the cod for 12-15 minutes, or until it is opaque throughout and flakes easily with a fork.
- Step 5: Garnish the baked cod with fresh parsley and lemon slices before serving for a bright, fresh finish.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter sauce for a subtle kick.
- Try swapping cod with other white fish like haddock or halibut if preferred.
- Serve with steamed vegetables or a side of rice to complete the meal.
Storage
Store any leftover baked cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or oven to avoid drying out the fish.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw the cod completely and pat it dry before baking to ensure even cooking and avoid excess moisture.
How do I know when the cod is fully cooked?
The cod is done when it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking times may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the fillets.
PrintBaked Lemon-Garlic Cod with Butter Sauce Recipe
This Baked Lemon-Garlic Cod with Butter Sauce is a simple and flavorful seafood dish featuring tender cod fillets baked to perfection with a zesty lemon-garlic butter crust. Quick to prepare and ideal for a healthy, elegant weeknight dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
For the Cod and Butter Sauce
- 4 (6 oz) cod fillets
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1/4 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon slices for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Cod: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the cod fillets dry thoroughly to ensure a better crust and even cooking. Place the cod fillets in a single layer in a suitable baking dish.
- Make the Lemon-Garlic Butter Sauce: In a small bowl, combine melted unsalted butter with minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, paprika, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix well to evenly distribute all flavors.
- Coat the Cod Fillets: Pour the prepared butter sauce evenly over the cod fillets, making sure each piece is well coated with this flavorful mixture to enhance the taste and moisture.
- Bake the Cod: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. The cod is done when it becomes opaque and flakes easily when tested with a fork.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the baked cod from the oven, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and lemon slices for a vibrant presentation. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Ensure to pat the fish dry before baking to help the butter sauce adhere better.
- If cod is unavailable, other flaky white fish like haddock or halibut can be used.
- Adjust garlic and lemon quantities to taste preferences.
- Serve with steamed vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with olive oil.
Keywords: baked cod, lemon garlic cod, seafood recipe, healthy fish dish, baked fish with butter sauce
