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Baked Lemon-Garlic Cod with Butter Sauce Recipe

4.6 from 142 reviews

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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