Name: Butter Lemon Garlic Baked Cod Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs cod filets; 4 tbsp all purpose flour (use gluten free if needed); 1 tsp paprika; 1 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp salt (more or less to taste); 1/2 tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp canola oil (to sear fish); 3 tbsp butter (to bake fish); 1 lemon – juice only; 3 garlic cloves (pressed); fresh minced parsley (to garnish)

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If you are looking to elevate your weeknight dinners with something that is both simple and sensational, this Butter Lemon Garlic Baked Cod Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine tender, flaky cod filets perfectly seared and then bathed in a luscious lemon garlic butter sauce, baked just right to lock in every bit of flavor. It’s light, fresh, and packed with a burst of zesty garlic and buttery goodness that will have you coming back for seconds. Whether you’re a seafood lover or someone who’s just dipping their toes into fish dishes, this recipe feels like a warm hug on a plate, easy enough for a quick meal but fancy enough to impress your guests.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows three raw white fish fillets placed on a piece of brown parchment paper on a wooden board. To the top right, several small slices of pale yellow butter and three garlic cloves are visible. A white bowl with five different powdered spices in red, black, off-white, and light yellow shades is set near the top left. Above the bowl of spices is a white bowl filled with white flour. Fresh green parsley sprigs and a bright yellow lemon are placed to the left side of the board. The background is changed to white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting the right ingredients together is the first delightful step to creating this irresistible Butter Lemon Garlic Baked Cod Recipe. Each component plays an essential role—from the tender cod that’s the star of the show to the trio of garlic, lemon, and butter that infuse the fish with mouthwatering flavor.

2 lbs cod filets: Fresh or thawed, these delicate white fish filets offer a mild flavor and flaky texture perfect for baking.
2 tbsp canola oil: Used for searing the fish to create a golden crust without overpowering the natural taste.
3 tbsp butter: Adds richness and a velvety texture when melted and combined with lemon and garlic.
1 lemon (juice only): Brings a bright, zesty acidity that balances the richness of the butter perfectly.
3 garlic cloves (pressed): Offers an aromatic punch that pairs beautifully with both lemon and butter.
Fresh minced parsley: Used as a garnish to add a fresh, vibrant color and a hint of herbaceous flavor.
4 tbsp all-purpose flour (or gluten-free): Provides a light coating that helps the fish develop a subtle crust and hold the seasonings.
1 tsp paprika: Adds a mild smoky flavor and a lovely warm color to the coating.
1 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Intensifies the garlic flavor layer in the flour mixture.
1 tsp onion powder: Adds depth and a subtle sweetness to the seasoning blend.
1 tsp salt (adjust as needed): Enhances all the flavors without overpowering the delicate fish.
1/2 tsp black pepper: Adds a touch of warmth and subtle heat to the dish.

How to Make Butter Lemon Garlic Baked Cod Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°. This temperature is perfect for cooking the cod evenly without drying it out. Meanwhile, prepare your fish by patting each filet dry with a paper towel—this step is key to getting a nice sear. Season lightly with salt and pepper on both sides as the foundation for flavor.

Step 2: Create the Flour Seasoning Mix

In a wide, shallow bowl, combine the all-purpose flour with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mixing these seasonings into the flour creates a flavorful coating that helps the fish develop a delicate crust that locks in moisture.

Step 3: Coat the Cod

Dip each cod filet into the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring every side is lightly dusted. This coating adds a wonderful texture once seared and absorbs the buttery lemon garlic sauce beautifully.

Step 4: Sear the Fish

Heat your oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and add canola oil. Once the oil is hot and evenly spread, carefully place the coated cod filets into the pan. Sear each side for about one minute or until a golden crust forms. This quick sear locks in the juices and flavors while adding a lovely color contrast.

Step 5: Prepare the Butter Lemon Garlic Sauce

Lower the heat to medium. Remove the seared fish and set it aside briefly. Add the butter to the pan and allow it to melt gently. Stir in the pressed garlic and cook just until fragrant—this happens quickly to avoid bitterness. Next, pour in the lemon juice and mix everything together, creating a delicious sauce that will infuse the fish as it bakes.

Step 6: Bake the Cod

Return the cod filets to the skillet, spooning some of the lemon garlic butter over the top. Transfer the entire pan into your preheated oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes, depending on filet thickness. The cod is done when it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork, or reaches an internal temperature of 145° if you prefer to check.

How to Serve Butter Lemon Garlic Baked Cod Recipe

The image shows four pieces of golden brown fish fillets cooking in a black pan filled with bubbling melted butter. Each fillet has a warm orange color from the seasoning and a slightly crispy texture on the top surface. The pan handles stick out on both sides, and the heat creates small bubbles around the fish. The background has a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Finishing off this dish with freshly minced parsley not only adds a gorgeous pop of green but also lends a bright herbal note that contrasts perfectly with the rich buttery sauce. A few thin lemon slices on top can also enhance the citrus aroma and presentation.

Side Dishes

This Butter Lemon Garlic Baked Cod Recipe pairs beautifully with sides like fluffy jasmine rice or creamy mashed potatoes, which soak up the flavorful sauce wonderfully. For a lighter option, steamed asparagus, roasted brussels sprouts, or a crisp arugula salad with a simple vinaigrette are fantastic companions, adding texture and keeping the meal balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

For an elegant touch, present the cod on a bed of herbed quinoa or alongside colorful roasted vegetables such as carrots and cherry tomatoes. Drizzle the pan sauce over everything and sprinkle extra parsley to create a dish that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious. Garnishing with edible flowers or microgreens can take this dish to dinner party level.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Butter Lemon Garlic Baked Cod Recipe should be cooled completely before storing in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh for up to 2 days, making it a great option for quick second-day meals or lunches.

Freezing

While fresh cod is best enjoyed immediately, you can freeze cooked leftovers if needed. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. For best quality, consume within one month, so the buttery lemon garlic flavors remain vibrant.

Reheating

To reheat cod without drying it out, gently warm it in a low oven at around 300° or in a covered skillet on low heat. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the fish tough. Adding a sprinkle of lemon juice before reheating helps refresh the flavors beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?

Absolutely! While cod is wonderful for its flaky texture and mild flavor, this method works great with haddock, halibut, or even tilapia. Just adjust baking times slightly depending on thickness and type of fish to avoid overcooking.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The traditional recipe uses all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. However, you can easily substitute with a gluten-free flour blend to make the dish gluten-free without compromising the wonderful coating and texture.

Can I prepare the sauce separately and add it later?

Of course! You can prepare the lemon garlic butter sauce on the stovetop and pour it over the cooked cod just before serving. This is a convenient shortcut but placing the fish back into the sauce for baking enhances flavor absorption.

How do I know when the cod is perfectly cooked?

Perfectly cooked cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. If you have a food thermometer, an internal temperature of 145° confirms it’s done. Avoid overcooking to keep the fish tender and moist.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine or olive oil for a dairy-free version. While the flavor profile shifts slightly, the lemon and garlic still shine wonderfully in the dish.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly comforting about this Butter Lemon Garlic Baked Cod Recipe that makes it a lasting favorite in my kitchen. It strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and sophistication, with ingredients that come together to create magic on your plate. I encourage you to try this recipe and share it with loved ones—it’s quick enough for a busy weeknight yet impressive enough for a special occasion. Your taste buds will thank you!