This Easy Lemon Butter Baked Cod is fresh, zesty, and super simple to make! With buttery flavor and a hint of lemon, it’s deliciously light and perfect for dinner.
I love how quick it is to whip up! Just pop the cod in the oven and relax while it bakes—dinner doesn’t get easier than this. Plus, who doesn’t love a citrusy kick? 🍋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cod Fillets: Fresh or frozen cod works great. If you can’t find cod, try haddock or tilapia as they both have a mild flavor that pairs well with lemon.
Unsalted Butter: This adds rich flavor without saltiness. For a healthier option, olive oil is a good substitute and adds its own tasty twist!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for flavor, but you can use garlic powder if you’re in a pinch. Just adjust the amount to about 1 teaspoon.
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice gives the best taste, but bottled lemon juice is a convenient alternative. Some people also like to use lime zest for a unique flavor.
Fresh Parsley: While optional, parsley brightens up the dish. You can substitute it with other herbs like dill or cilantro if you prefer.
How Do You Bake Cod So It Flakes Perfectly?
Baking cod is an easy way to keep it tender and flaky. Follow these steps for the best results:
- Start with a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) to ensure even cooking.
- Make sure to dry the cod fillets with paper towels—this helps the seasoning stick better.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking dish. Give the fillets space for even heat circulation.
- Check for doneness by gently flaking the fish with a fork. It should easily separate and be opaque inside.
Following these tips will help your cod come out perfectly flaky every time!
Easy Lemon Butter Baked Cod
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
- Lemon slices (optional for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5-10 minutes of prep time and 12-15 minutes of cooking time. So, you’re looking at around 20-25 minutes from start to finish, which is perfect for a quick and tasty dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is important for ensuring that the cod cooks evenly throughout.
2. Prepare the Lemon Butter Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon zest, and lemon juice. This delicious mixture will keep the cod moist and flavorful.
3. Season the Cod:
Take your cod fillets and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better. Now, generously season both sides of each fillet with salt and pepper.
4. Arrange the Fillets:
Place the seasoned cod fillets in your prepared baking dish in a single layer. Make sure they have some space between them for even cooking.
5. Add the Lemon Butter:
Spoon the lemon butter mixture evenly over each cod fillet. Don’t be shy—this is what makes it so tasty!
6. Bake the Cod:
Put the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. The cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork—just gently press on it to check!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven. If you’d like, you can garnish with chopped parsley and lemon slices for a fresh look. Serve immediately with your choice of sides—steamed veggies, rice, or a salad would all go wonderfully!
Enjoy your light and flavorful Easy Lemon Butter Baked Cod!
FAQ about Easy Lemon Butter Baked Cod
Can I Use a Different Type of Fish?
Absolutely! You can substitute cod with other white fish like haddock, tilapia, or halibut. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different fish may require slight adjustments.
Can I Make This Recipe with Frozen Cod?
Yes, you can use frozen cod! Just ensure it’s fully thawed in the fridge overnight or in a sealed bag submerged in cold water before cooking. Cook times may be slightly longer, so check for doneness as needed.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the cod in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through, or gently microwave it.
What Can I Serve with Lemon Butter Baked Cod?
This dish pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables, rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up any delicious lemon butter sauce!
