Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lemon Butter Baked Cod is a light, flavorful, and healthy dish that comes together quickly with minimal effort. The flaky cod fillets are baked in a luscious lemon butter sauce with garlic and herbs, making it a perfect option for weeknight dinners or elegant entertaining. It pairs beautifully with rice, vegetables, or a fresh salad.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

cod fillets (fresh or thawed if frozen)unsalted butterfresh lemons (juice and zest)garlic clovesfresh parsley or dillpaprikasalt and black pepperolive oil

directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.

Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika.

In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and add minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, then stir in lemon juice and zest.

Place the cod fillets in the prepared baking dish and pour the lemon butter mixture evenly over the top.

Bake uncovered for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or dill before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesBaking time: 12-15 minutesTotal time: 25 minutes

Variations

Top with thin lemon slices for extra citrus flavor and presentation.

Add a layer of breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan for a golden crust.

Swap parsley for basil or tarragon for a different herbal touch.

Include capers or olives for a Mediterranean twist.

Serve with a splash of white wine in the sauce for added depth.

storage/reheating

Store leftover cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.To reheat, place in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10 minutes or microwave gently in 30-second intervals until warmed through.Avoid overcooking during reheating to maintain the fish’s texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cod?

Yes, just be sure to fully thaw and pat dry before baking.

What side dishes go well with this?

Steamed vegetables, rice pilaf, or a light salad are excellent choices.

How do I know when the cod is done?

It should be opaque and easily flake apart with a fork.

Can I use another type of fish?

Yes, this method works well with haddock, halibut, or tilapia.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as written, it’s naturally gluten-free.

Can I prep this in advance?

You can prepare the lemon butter sauce ahead and refrigerate it, but bake the fish just before serving.

Does the cod need to be marinated?

No marinade is necessary; the lemon butter provides plenty of flavor.

Can I cook it in foil?

Yes, wrapping the fish in foil helps retain moisture and infuses flavor.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled can work in a pinch.

What if my cod is thicker?

Add a few extra minutes to the baking time and check for doneness with a fork.

Conclusion

Lemon Butter Baked Cod is a simple yet elegant dish that delivers on both flavor and nutrition. With its delicate texture and bright, buttery citrus sauce, it’s sure to become a regular on your dinner table. Ideal for busy nights or special occasions, this recipe proves that cooking fish at home can be both easy and delicious.