Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Cod

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: This recipe takes only 30 minutes, including prep and cooking time.

• Flavorful: The garlic butter sauce combined with lemon pepper and fresh lemon juice brings out the natural flavors of the cod.

• Healthy: A lighter meal option that’s full of protein, making it a great choice for a nutritious dinner.

• Versatile: Perfect for pairing with side dishes like rice, vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Ingredients

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

• 1 lemon

• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

• 1 clove garlic, minced (or ¼ teaspoon garlic powder)

• 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning

• ½ teaspoon dried dill

• 4 cod loins or filets (4-5 oz each)

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.

2. Slice half of the lemon and juice the other half, using 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Arrange the lemon slices in a casserole dish.

3. Whisk together the melted butter, garlic, and lemon juice.

4. Pat the cod filets or loins dry with a paper towel. Sprinkle the cod with lemon pepper seasoning and dill, then place the fish over the lemon slices.

5. Pour the garlic butter mixture over the cod.

6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily when tested with a fork.

7. Garnish with chopped parsley and spoon additional butter over the cod before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add breadcrumbs: For a crispy texture, top the cod with seasoned breadcrumbs or Panko before baking.

• Use other white fish: Swap cod with tilapia, haddock, or another mild white fish.

• Herb variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a covered saucepan with a little water, heating gently until warmed through.

FAQs

How can I tell when cod is done cooking?

Cod is done when it is opaque throughout and flakes easily with a fork. Be careful not to overcook it, as it can dry out quickly.

Can I use frozen cod?

Yes, you can use frozen cod. Just make sure to thaw it properly in the refrigerator before cooking.

What can I serve with baked cod?

This dish pairs well with rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. It also complements potatoes or steamed asparagus.

Can I use olive oil instead of butter?

Yes, you can substitute olive oil for butter, but it will slightly alter the flavor profile of the dish.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

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

Is there a way to make this recipe spicier?

You can add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture for an extra kick.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

While it's best cooked fresh, you can prep the cod with the seasoning and butter mixture in advance, and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake.

How do I prevent the fish from drying out?

Avoid overcooking the cod. Check it after 15 minutes and remove it once the flesh is opaque and flakes easily.

Can I use lemon zest in this recipe?

Yes, adding some fresh lemon zest to the garlic butter will enhance the citrus flavor.

What type of cod is best for this recipe?

Both cod loins and fillets work well for this recipe. Loins tend to be thicker, while fillets are more delicate.

Conclusion

This Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Cod is a perfect combination of ease, flavor, and nutrition. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and foolproof. With its tender, flaky texture and bright, zesty flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite in your dinner rotation.

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Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Cod

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This Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Cod is a simple and flavorful dish that combines tender cod fillets with a rich, savory garlic butter sauce. The infusion of fresh lemon and lemon pepper seasoning adds a citrusy zing to each bite. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this healthy, protein-packed seafood recipe is sure to impress.

• Author: Janet
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Seafood, Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

1 lemon (divided for slices and juice)

¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

1 clove garlic, minced (or ¼ teaspoon garlic powder)

1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning

½ teaspoon dried dill

4 cod loins or fillets (4-5 oz each)

1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

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Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

• Slice half of the lemon and juice the other half, using 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Arrange the lemon slices in a casserole dish.

• In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, garlic, and lemon juice.

• Pat the cod filets or loins dry with a paper towel. Sprinkle the fish with lemon pepper seasoning and dill, then place it over the lemon slices.

• Pour the garlic butter mixture over the cod.

• Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

• Garnish with chopped parsley and spoon any extra garlic butter over the cod before serving.

Notes

• For a crispy texture, top the cod with seasoned breadcrumbs or Panko before baking.

• If you prefer a spicier flavor, add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture.

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