This Easy Lemon Butter Baked Cod is a light and tasty dish. The cod is baked until flaky and topped with a buttery lemon sauce that adds a fresh zesty flavor!
I love how quick this recipe is; it feels special without taking forever to make. Pair it with some veggies, and you’ve got a delicious meal on the table in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cod Fillets: Cod is a mild and flaky fish that works well here. If you can’t find cod, halibut or tilapia are great alternatives. They’ll also soak up that delicious lemon butter flavor!
Butter: Unsalted butter is preferred for better control over salt levels. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can use olive oil or vegan butter instead, which still adds a nice richness.
Lemon Juice and Zest: Fresh lemon juice gives the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch. For zest, if you don’t have a zester, a fine grater will do. Just make sure to avoid the white pith as it’s bitter.
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings a bright flavor to the dish. If you’re short on time, garlic powder can be used instead, around 1/4 teaspoon, but fresh is always better!
How Do I Ensure My Cod is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking cod well is crucial to achieving that flakiness. To get it just right, follow these tips:
- Make sure your oven is preheated; this helps cook the fish evenly.
- Do not overcook the fish! Bake just until it flakes easily with a fork, usually 12-15 minutes.
- A simple test: insert a fork at the thickest part and twist slightly. If it flakes and is opaque, it’s done!
Using these techniques will help you avoid dry fish and enjoy a beautifully cooked meal.
Easy Lemon Butter Baked Cod
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped)
- Lemon slices, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Easy Lemon Butter Baked Cod takes about 10 minutes of prep time, plus an additional 12-15 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll have a flavorful dish ready in under 30 minutes! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your cod will cook evenly and quickly.
2. Prepare the Cod Fillets:
Take your cod fillets and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better. Season both sides of the fillets lightly with salt and freshly ground black pepper. You want just enough to enhance the flavors without overpowering the fish.
3. Mix the Lemon Butter Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, and dried or fresh parsley. Stir it well to combine all the ingredients into a tasty sauce.
4. Arrange the Cod in a Baking Dish:
Place the seasoned cod fillets in a baking dish in a single layer. Don’t crowd them; this allows the heat to circulate and cook the fish evenly.
5. Pour the Sauce Over the Cod:
Evenly pour the lemon butter mixture over the top of the cod fillets. Make sure each piece gets some of that delicious sauce for maximum flavor!
6. Bake the Cod:
Put the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on the fish; it’s done when it flakes easily with a fork.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once the cod is cooked, remove it from the oven and garnish with lemon slices and additional parsley if you like. Serve your lemon butter baked cod immediately alongside your favorite side dishes such as steamed vegetables or fluffy rice.
Enjoy your delicious and easy meal!
FAQs About Easy Lemon Butter Baked Cod
Can I Use Frozen Cod for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. For best results, leave it in the refrigerator overnight or place the sealed fillets in a bowl of cold water for about 30 minutes. Pat them dry before seasoning to ensure they cook evenly.
What Can I Use Instead of Cod?
If cod isn’t available, you can substitute with other white fish like haddock, halibut, or tilapia. Each will give you a slightly different flavor and texture, but they’ll all work well with the lemon butter sauce!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the cod in a microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until heated through. Be careful not to overcook it, as this may cause the fish to become tough.
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! You can add sliced bell peppers, asparagus, or zucchini to the baking dish alongside the cod. Just toss them in with a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper; they’ll roast beautifully while the fish bakes!
