Lemon Butter Baked Cod Recipe

If you’ve been craving a dish that’s both delightfully simple and absolutely bursting with flavor, this is the one to try: Lemon Butter Baked Cod. Imagine tender, flaky fillets bathing in a pool of zesty lemon and rich, melted butter, all kissed with fresh garlic and a sprinkle of vibrant herbs. It’s the kind of meal that feels restaurant-fancy but comes together effortlessly on a weeknight, making Lemon Butter Baked Cod a repeat favorite in home kitchens everywhere.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Lemon Butter Baked Cod lies in its harmony of just a handful of ingredients—each one playing a key role. From the freshness of the fish to the brightness of the citrus and the richness of the butter, here’s why every element matters.

• Cod fillets: Choose firm, white fillets for the ultimate flaky texture that absorbs all those lovely flavors.
• Unsalted butter: Melted and silky, butter lends richness and helps create those irresistible pan juices.
• Freshly squeezed lemon juice: Essential for bright, tangy acidity that lifts the whole dish.
• Lemon zest: The fragrant oils in zest add a burst of citrus aroma that infuses every bite.
• Garlic: Minced for a punchy, savory backbone that’s never overpowering thanks to the balance of butter and lemon.
• Paprika: A warm, subtle spice that gives color and a gentle hint of earthiness.
• Salt: Essential for enhancing flavors—don’t skip it!
• Black pepper: Adds a light, spicy note that complements both the fish and the citrus.
• Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley adds an herbal freshness and a pop of green color at the finish.
• Lemon slices: Used as garnish for a beautiful presentation and extra lemony aroma when serving.

How to Make Lemon Butter Baked Cod

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven ensures that the cod cooks quickly and stays perfectly tender. Lightly grease your baking dish or line it with parchment paper—this not only prevents sticking but also makes cleanup a breeze. Arrange the cod fillets in a single, even layer so each piece cooks at the same rate.

Step 2: Mix the Lemon Butter Sauce

In a small bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter, freshly squeezed lemon juice, aromatic zest, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Give it a good whisk to make sure everything mingles beautifully. This sauce is what gives Lemon Butter Baked Cod its signature melt-in-your-mouth flavor with every bite.

Step 3: Drizzle and Bake

Pour the lemon butter mixture evenly over the fillets, making sure every piece gets some of that golden goodness. Pop the dish in the oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the fish flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). The cod transforms into plump, juicy perfection right before your eyes.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

Once baked, take out your Lemon Butter Baked Cod and immediately spoon those luscious pan juices over each fillet. This step boosts moisture and flavor. Top everything off with a shower of chopped fresh parsley and tuck in a few lemon slices for garnish. Your kitchen will smell heavenly at this point!

How to Serve Lemon Butter Baked Cod

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley and a few bright lemon slices are all you need to add color and a final hit of fragrance. If you want to get a little extra, try a touch of freshly cracked pepper or even a light dusting of smoked paprika right before serving for an extra aroma boost.

Side Dishes

Lemon Butter Baked Cod pairs perfectly with almost any side. Steamed vegetables and fluffy rice keep things light and healthy, while roasted potatoes soak up those buttery juices beautifully. For a Mediterranean twist, try it alongside herbed quinoa or a crisp green salad.

Creative Ways to Present

For a gorgeous presentation, serve each cod fillet over a bed of wilted spinach or lightly sautéed asparagus, and drizzle extra pan sauce tableside. You can also flake the cod and tuck it into warm pita with greens and a spoonful of sauce for an elegant fish sandwich. Or plate the dish family-style and let everyone spoon their own pan juices and garnishes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store your Lemon Butter Baked Cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The sauce helps keep the fillets moist, so they reheat well without drying out.

Freezing

While freshly baked is best, you can freeze leftovers by wrapping each fillet tightly and storing them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to one month. To preserve texture, try to remove as much air as possible before freezing.

Reheating

To reheat, place the cod (thawed if frozen) in a baking dish, cover loosely with foil, and warm in a 300°F oven until heated through—usually around 10–12 minutes. Reheating gently helps the fish stay tender and prevents it from overcooking. Spoon some of the sauce over the top before serving to refresh those flavors.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cod for Lemon Butter Baked Cod?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the cod fully in the fridge and pat it dry well before baking. This extra step prevents excess moisture and ensures the fish bakes up golden and flaky.

What if I don’t have fresh lemon?

Fresh lemon is ideal for both the juice and zest, but in a pinch, bottled lemon juice works for acidity. Skip the zest or substitute with a tiny bit of dried lemon peel, though the fresh flavor is hard to match!

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, Lemon Butter Baked Cod is naturally gluten-free, as it doesn’t use any flour or breadcrumbs. It’s a wonderful choice for gluten-free guests or family members.

Can I make this dish with a different type Main Course

Definitely! Other mild white fish like haddock, tilapia, or halibut all work beautifully with this lemon butter treatment. Just adjust the baking time slightly for thinner or thicker fillets.

What’s the best way to get the cod extra flavorful?

If you want to amp up the flavor even more, let the fillets marinate in the lemon butter sauce for 10-15 minutes before baking. Or, add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan just before the dish goes in the oven for a rich, savory twist.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a new go-to seafood favorite, Lemon Butter Baked Cod is everything you want in a main dish—simple, speedy, and bursting with fresh flavor. Treat yourself and your loved ones to a meal that looks and tastes like it took hours to prepare, even when dinner comes together in under 30 minutes. Dive in and give this unforgettable recipe a try!

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