Lemon Butter Baked Cod Recipe – Easy, Healthy & Delicious
Lemon Butter Baked Cod is a simple yet elegant dish that brings out the natural flavors of cod with a deliciously rich lemon-butter sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal, a healthy seafood option, or even a fancy dinner. Cod is known for its mild flavor, flaky texture, and ability to absorb seasonings beautifully, making it an excellent choice for baking.
This easy baked cod recipe is loaded with fresh lemon, butter, garlic, and seasonings, creating a light and flavorful dish that pairs wonderfully with vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. Best of all, it takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish!
Recipe Preparation Equipment
Before starting, gather the necessary kitchen tools:
- Baking dish – A glass or ceramic baking dish works best.
- Mixing bowl – To prepare the lemon butter sauce.
- Whisk – To mix the ingredients evenly.
- Knife – For slicing the lemons.
- Cutting board – To prep ingredients.
- Measuring spoons & cups – For accurate seasoning.
- Basting brush or spoon – To spread the butter sauce over the cod.
- Aluminum foil (optional) – To cover the cod for a juicier texture.
Ingredients
To make this Lemon Butter Baked Cod, you’ll need:
For the Cod:
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ tsp paprika (optional, for color)
For the Lemon Butter Sauce:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 lemon, sliced (for topping)
How to Make Easy Lemon Butter Baked Cod?
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or non-stick spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Cod Fillets
Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. This helps remove excess moisture, allowing the seasonings to stick better. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, and paprika for color.
Step 3: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes.
Step 4: Coat the Cod with Sauce
Place the cod fillets in the prepared baking dish. Pour the lemon butter sauce evenly over the fillets, ensuring they are well coated. Arrange lemon slices on top for extra flavor.
Step 5: Bake the Cod
Bake the cod for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. If you want a slight crisp on top, broil for an additional 2 minutes.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven, sprinkle fresh parsley over the top, and serve immediately.
Variations
- Garlic Parmesan Baked Cod: Add 2 tbsp of grated Parmesan cheese to the butter sauce for a rich, cheesy flavor.
- Spicy Cajun Cod: Use Cajun seasoning instead of oregano and thyme for a bold, spicy twist.
- Panko-Crusted Baked Cod: Top the fillets with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs and butter for a crispy topping.
- Mediterranean Style Cod: Add cherry tomatoes, olives, and capers to the baking dish for a Mediterranean touch.
Cooking Notes
- Use fresh cod whenever possible, but if using frozen, thaw it completely and pat it dry before baking.
- Avoid overcooking the cod, as it can become dry. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
- If you prefer a lighter version, use olive oil instead of butter.
Serving Suggestions
This Lemon Butter Baked Cod pairs beautifully with:
- Steamed or roasted vegetables (asparagus, green beans, or Brussels sprouts)
- Garlic butter rice or quinoa
- Mashed potatoes or cauliflower mash for a creamy side
- A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette
Helpful Tips
- For extra moisture, cover the cod with foil while baking and remove it in the last 5 minutes.
- If your cod fillets are very thick, bake for a couple more minutes, but always check for doneness with a fork.
- Use real butter for the best flavor; margarine won’t give the same rich taste.
- Don’t skip the lemon zest! It enhances the lemony flavor without adding extra liquid.
Tips for the Best Lemon Butter Baked Cod
- Choose fresh fish: Fresh cod has a mild, slightly sweet aroma and firm, white flesh.
- Don’t over-marinate: Cod is delicate, and too much acid from lemon juice can break down the texture.
- Let the fish rest for a minute after baking to allow the juices to redistribute.
- For a richer sauce, drizzle extra melted butter over the cod after baking.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 230
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw and pat it dry before baking.
2. How do I know when cod is fully cooked?
Cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
3. Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the lemon butter sauce in advance, but it’s best to bake the cod fresh for the best texture.
4. What other fish can I use for this recipe?
You can substitute cod with haddock, halibut, tilapia, or even salmon.
5. Can I grill instead of bake?
Yes! Grill the cod for 4-5 minutes per side over medium heat.
Conclusion
Lemon Butter Baked Cod is an easy, healthy, and flavorful seafood dish that’s perfect for any meal. With a rich buttery sauce, zesty lemon, and tender flaky cod, this recipe is sure to impress. Whether you serve it with veggies, rice, or salad, it’s a versatile dish that’s quick to make and packed with deliciousness. Try it today and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home!
