Baked Cod in Lemon Butter: Easy, Delicious, and Flavorful Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a delicious yet easy-to-make seafood dish, look no further than Baked Cod in Lemon Butter! This recipe is a perfect balance of fresh, delicate cod fillets baked in a rich, buttery lemon sauce. With the added depth of garlic, herbs, and a slight hint of paprika, this dish is both flavorful and light — making it ideal for a healthy weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal.

Not only does Baked Cod in Lemon Butter come together in under 30 minutes, but it also offers a refreshing combination of citrusy lemon, savory garlic, and tender fish that melts in your mouth. This is a dish that anyone can master, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced home chef.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the step-by-step process for creating the perfect Baked Cod in Lemon Butter, dive into some helpful tips, and provide plenty of options for customizing the recipe to suit your preferences. Whether you serve it with a side of roasted vegetables, a light salad, or rice, you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to make this delectable dish.

Why Choose Baked Cod in Lemon Butter?

The Appeal of Cod

Cod is a popular fish known for its mild flavor and flaky, tender texture. Unlike stronger-tasting fish, cod is incredibly versatile, making it a favorite for a wide range of culinary styles. When baked, cod retains its natural moisture and soft texture, creating the perfect base for rich, flavorful sauces like lemon butter.

But what makes Baked Cod in Lemon Butter so special? Here are a few reasons why this recipe is a must-try:

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights. In just 30 minutes or less, you’ll have a flavorful, healthy meal ready to enjoy.
• Light yet Flavorful: The lemon butter sauce adds a burst of freshness without overwhelming the delicate cod. The combination of garlic, paprika, and herbs gives the dish a savory depth without being too rich.
• Nutrient-Packed: Cod is a low-calorie source of lean protein, and paired with healthy fats from the butter and the antioxidant properties of lemon, it makes for a well-rounded, nutritious meal.
• Versatile: Whether you’re serving it with roasted vegetables, a crisp salad, or a serving of rice, Baked Cod in Lemon Butter can easily be paired with various sides to create a balanced and satisfying meal.

The Ingredients You Need for Baked Cod in Lemon Butter

This recipe requires just a handful of simple ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

• 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each) – Cod is the star of the dish. These fillets provide a mild, flaky base that pairs perfectly with the zesty lemon butter sauce.
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter (melted) – The butter serves as the base for the sauce, giving it a rich and creamy texture.
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice – Lemon juice adds a burst of freshness and acidity that enhances the flavor of the fish.
• 2 garlic cloves (minced) – Garlic adds a savory, aromatic flavor that complements the richness of the butter and the brightness of the lemon.
• 1 tsp lemon zest – Lemon zest intensifies the lemon flavor, giving the sauce a fragrant, citrusy edge.
• ½ tsp salt – Salt helps to bring out the natural flavors in the fish and the sauce.
• ¼ tsp black pepper – Black pepper adds just the right amount of spice and balances out the richness of the butter.
• ½ tsp paprika – Paprika adds a subtle smokiness and warmth to the dish, enhancing the flavor profile without overpowering it.
• ½ tsp dried oregano or thyme – These herbs bring an earthy note that pairs beautifully with the fish and complements the lemony goodness.
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish) – Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness to finish off the dish.
• 1 lemon (sliced, for serving) – Lemon slices are used for serving, adding a final touch of zest and a visual appeal to the plate.

How to Make Baked Cod in Lemon Butter: Step-by-Step Instructions

This recipe is as easy as it is delicious. With a few simple steps, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal ready to serve.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature will ensure that the cod fillets cook quickly, allowing them to stay moist while developing a golden exterior. Lightly grease a baking dish to prevent the fish from sticking. You can use cooking spray or a small amount of butter to coat the dish.

Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Butter Sauce

In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, black pepper, paprika, and your choice of dried herbs (oregano or thyme). Stir everything together until well combined. This fragrant mixture will create a tangy, garlicky sauce that soaks into the cod, enhancing its flavor with every bite.

Step 3: Season the Cod

Place the cod fillets into the prepared baking dish. Ensure that the fillets are evenly spaced and that the skin side is facing down (if your cod still has skin). Pour the prepared lemon butter sauce over the fillets, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated. The butter will melt and infuse the fish with a rich, lemony flavor while it bakes.

Step 4: Bake the Cod

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. You’ll know the cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). The fish should be tender, moist, and perfectly cooked, with the lemon butter sauce bubbling around the edges.

Step 5: Serve

Once the cod is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve the fish with lemon slices for an extra burst of citrus. This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, a light salad, or even a side of rice. The bright, fresh flavors of the lemon and parsley add the perfect finishing touch.

Tips for Perfect Baked Cod in Lemon Butter

While this recipe is simple and straightforward, there are a few tips that can help you achieve the best results every time:

1. Choose Fresh Cod

For the best flavor and texture, use fresh cod fillets rather than frozen ones. Fresh cod will have a mild, delicate flavor and a firm texture. If you must use frozen cod, make sure to thaw it completely before baking.

2. Don’t Overcook the Fish

Cod is a delicate fish that cooks quickly. Overcooking it can result in dry, rubbery fish. To avoid this, keep a close eye on the fillets as they bake. The fish should flake easily with a fork and appear opaque throughout when it’s done.

3. Adjust the Seasonings

Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the lemon butter sauce. For a more savory flavor, try adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the sauce.

4. Add Vegetables for a Complete Meal

If you’re looking to make this dish a full meal, consider adding roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or bell peppers. Simply toss the vegetables in olive oil and season with salt and pepper before roasting them alongside the cod.

Nutritional Information

If you’re wondering about the nutritional profile of Baked Cod in Lemon Butter, here’s an estimated breakdown per serving (assuming four servings total):

• Calories: 300-350 kcal
• Protein: 25-30g
• Carbohydrates: 5-7g
• Fat: 20-25g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g

Cod is a low-calorie, high-protein fish that makes for a healthy, balanced meal. The healthy fats from butter provide richness, while the lemon and garlic keep the dish flavorful without overwhelming the senses. This makes it a great option for anyone looking to enjoy a light yet satisfying meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use another type of fish for this recipe?
Yes, if you can’t find cod, you can substitute it with other mild, white fish like tilapia, haddock, or sole. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the fillets.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While Baked Cod in Lemon Butter is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the lemon butter sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, simply assemble the dish and bake as directed.

3. Can I bake the cod with the skin on?
Yes, you can bake cod with the skin on. Just make sure to place the skin side down in the baking dish, and it will easily peel off once the fish is cooked.

4. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Baked Cod in Lemon Butter in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, though the fish may lose some of its crispness.

Conclusion

Baked Cod in Lemon Butter is a simple yet elegant dish that combines the light, flaky texture of cod with the vibrant flavors of lemon and garlic. Whether you’re a seafood lover or new to cooking fish, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers impressive results every time. Its versatility makes it a great option for any meal — from a light dinner to a special occasion.

With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful, nutritious meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the delicious combination of tender fish, zesty lemon, and buttery goodness!

Print