Tender, flaky cod baked in a bright lemon-garlic butter sauce. This easy dinner comes together quickly and pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, rice, potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Ingredients
For the Cod
- 4 cod fillets, about 5–6 oz (140–170 g) each
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
For the Lemon-Garlic Butter Sauce
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 4 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- ½ tsp paprika
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp chicken or vegetable broth, optional
For Garnishing
- Lemon slices
- Fresh parsley
- Extra black pepper
- A little lemon zest
Instructions
1. Prepare the oven
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the cod
Pat the cod fillets thoroughly dry with paper towels. Place them in the prepared baking dish.
Drizzle with olive oil and season both sides with salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
3. Make the butter sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, parsley, paprika, black pepper, salt, and optional broth.
4. Add the sauce
Pour the lemon-garlic butter sauce evenly over the cod. Place a few lemon slices around or on top of the fillets.
5. Bake
Bake uncovered for approximately 12–16 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fish.
The cod is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
6. Finish and serve
Spoon some of the warm lemon-butter sauce from the baking dish over each fillet. Garnish with fresh parsley and a little lemon zest.
Serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
This cod pairs well with:
- Roasted asparagus
- Steamed broccoli
- Garlic green beans
- Roasted potatoes
- Cauliflower rice
- Brown or white rice
- Quinoa
- Mediterranean salad
- Sautéed spinach
- Crusty bread for soaking up the butter sauce
Tips for Perfect Cod
- Pat the fish dry: This helps the seasoning stick and prevents excess water from diluting the sauce.
- Don’t overbake: Cod is lean and can become dry if cooked too long.
- Use fresh lemon: Fresh lemon juice gives the sauce a much brighter flavor.
- Check the thickest part: Cooking time varies depending on the thickness of the fillets.
- For a richer sauce, add another tablespoon of butter after baking and spoon it over the fish.
Nut & Allergen Information
Contains:
- Milk/Dairy: Butter.
- Fish: Cod.
Does not contain:
- Peanuts
- Tree nuts
- Sesame
- Soy, assuming the broth and other packaged ingredients are soy-free
- Gluten, assuming all packaged seasonings/broth are certified gluten-free
Nut-free: Yes, this recipe is naturally nut-free as written.
Important: For someone with a serious allergy, check packaged broth, seasonings, butter, and other ingredients for allergen statements and possible cross-contact.
Q&A
Q: How do I know when cod is done?
A: It should be opaque, separate easily into flakes, and reach 145°F (63°C) internally.
Q: Can I use frozen cod?
A: Yes, but thaw it completely in the refrigerator first and pat it very dry before cooking.
Q: Can I use another type of fish?
A: Yes. Haddock, pollock, halibut, or tilapia can work well. Cooking time may vary depending on thickness.
Q: Can I make this recipe without butter?
A: Yes. Replace the butter with olive oil, although the sauce will have a lighter and less creamy flavor.
Q: Can I add Parmesan cheese?
A: Yes. A small amount of grated Parmesan can be sprinkled over the cod during the final few minutes of baking.
Q: Can I make it spicy?
A: Absolutely. Add ¼–½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne to the butter sauce.
Q: Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes. The sauce can be mixed several hours ahead and refrigerated. Bring it close to room temperature before using.
Q: Can I use bottled lemon juice?
A: You can, but fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor.
Q: How should I store leftovers?
A: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Q: How should I reheat the cod?
A: Reheat gently in a covered oven-safe dish at about 300°F (150°C) until warmed through. Avoid overheating because cod can dry out quickly.
Q: Can I freeze cooked cod?
A: Yes, although the texture may be slightly softer after thawing. Store airtight and use within about 2 months for best quality.
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: The basic ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always check broth, seasonings, and packaged ingredients if preparing for someone with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
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