Lemon Butter Baked Cod Recipe

When it comes to weeknight dinners that impress without any stress, Lemon Butter Baked Cod is always my top pick. This elegant yet effortless dish combines delicate, flaky fish with a vibrant lemony butter sauce, delivering a restaurant-worthy experience in just 25 minutes. It’s light, fresh, and naturally gluten-free, making it a fantastic choice for just about anyone searching for a healthy seafood dinner with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Lemon Butter Baked Cod is how just a handful of everyday ingredients can transform into something magical. Each item here plays a special part, whether it’s boosting the flavor, giving color, or creating the perfect texture. Let’s shine a light on what you’ll need and why it matters!

• Cod fillets: Choose firm, flaky fillets for the ideal texture and mild taste that lets the butter and lemon shine.
• Unsalted butter (melted): This golden goodness adds rich flavor and ensures every bite is perfectly moist.
• Fresh lemon juice: Brings bright acidity that wakes up the cod and balances the richness of the butter.
• Lemon zest: Adds a punch of citrus fragrance, intensifying the lemony character of the dish.
• Garlic cloves (minced): Delivers a warm, aromatic note that mellows beautifully as it bakes.
• Paprika: A dash not only adds subtle smoky flavor but also a lovely hint of color.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors and draws out the natural savoriness of cod.
• Black pepper: A little kick goes a long way, bringing depth to the whole dish.
• Fresh parsley (chopped): Sprinkled at the end, it lifts the flavors with herbal freshness and looks gorgeous as a garnish.
• Lemon slices (for garnish): These make your finished Lemon Butter Baked Cod look as dazzling as it tastes!

How to Make Lemon Butter Baked Cod

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Dish

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures gentle, even cooking, which is key for perfectly flaky fish. Lightly grease your baking dish or, if you prefer an easier cleanup, line it with parchment paper. That way, nothing sticks and serving is a breeze.

Step 2: Pat and Place the Cod Fillets

Dry your cod fillets thoroughly with paper towels. This simple step makes a big difference; excess moisture is the enemy of a nicely baked fish. Arrange the fillets in your prepared baking dish in a single layer, giving each some space so the heat can work its magic.

Step 3: Mix the Lemon Butter Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, fresh lemon juice, zest, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and black pepper. The aroma alone is enough to get your mouth watering! You want the sauce to be well-blended, silky, and fragrant, as it’s the real heart of Lemon Butter Baked Cod.

Step 4: Pour, Bake, and Wait (Just a Little!)

Pour the luscious lemon butter mixture evenly over the cod fillets. Don’t worry if the sauce pools in spots; as it bakes, the flavors will soak right in. Slide the dish into your hot oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. The fish should be opaque and easily flake apart with a fork—it’s a sign you’ve achieved cod perfection!

Step 5: Finish with Freshness

Once your Lemon Butter Baked Cod is out of the oven, shower it with chopped fresh parsley. This adds color, fragrance, and a delicate herbal note that ties everything together. A few lemon slices on the side make for a gorgeous presentation and an extra zing for those who want more citrusy punch.

How to Serve Lemon Butter Baked Cod

Garnishes

The right garnish turns your Lemon Butter Baked Cod from simple to sensational. I love finishing each fillet with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a few lemon slices, which brighten up the plate and add an inviting pop of color. For extra flair, add microgreens or a dusting of sumac for a citrusy twist.

Side Dishes

This cod pairs beautifully with all kinds of sides. Steamed broccoli, garlicky green beans, or asparagus keep the meal light and vibrant. Fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad are also terrific. Just let the clean flavors of the fish take the spotlight and keep the accompaniments simple.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re in the mood to impress, try serving the fillets family-style on a platter lined with greens, topped with extra parsley and artfully arranged lemon slices. For individual plates, mound the fish over wild rice pilaf and scatter roasted cherry tomatoes around for a colorful, bistro-worthy look. Mini portions atop crostini make a show-stopping seafood appetizer, too!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow your Lemon Butter Baked Cod to cool completely before transferring leftovers to an airtight container. Properly stored in the refrigerator, the cod stays tender and delicious for up to 2 days. It’s best enjoyed sooner rather than later, as fish can dry out if kept too long.

Freezing

If you’d like to freeze cooked cod, wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. For best quality, enjoy within one month. Remember, the delicate texture of cod can change after freezing, so it’s ideal for meal prepping but not quite as luscious as freshly baked.

Reheating

To gently reheat Lemon Butter Baked Cod, place the fillets in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and warm in a 300°F oven until just heated through (about 10 minutes). Microwaving works in a pinch, but use low power and check often to avoid overcooking and drying out the fish.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cod fillets?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the cod fillets fully and pat them dry before baking. This helps them cook evenly and soak up all that gorgeous lemon butter flavor.

What other fish can I use for this recipe?

This recipe adapts beautifully to other mild, flaky white fish like haddock or tilapia. Keep an eye on baking times as thinner or thicker fillets may need slight adjustments in the oven.

Is Lemon Butter Baked Cod gluten-free?

Yes! All of the ingredients in this dish are naturally gluten-free, making it safe and satisfying for those with dietary restrictions. Just pair it with gluten-free sides if needed.

How can I tell when the cod is done?

Check for opaque flesh that flakes easily with a fork. If you like to be precise, the internal temperature should reach 145°F. Be careful not to overbake, or the fish may dry out.

Can I add extra spices or herbs?

Certainly! Lemon Butter Baked Cod is a wonderful canvas. Try adding a pinch of crushed red pepper for heat, or a scattering of dill, basil, or chives for extra herbal notes.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a reliable, crowd-pleasing dinner that feels like a treat but couldn’t be easier to make, this Lemon Butter Baked Cod checks every box. It’s fresh, flavorful, and always delivers comfort—give it a try and let it brighten up your table!

Print