If you are craving a dish that feels both elegant and incredibly simple, the Easy Lemon Butter Baked Cod Recipe is an absolute dream come true. This dish combines tender, flaky cod fillets with a luscious lemon butter sauce that brings brightness and warmth to every bite. Perfectly seasoned and baked to perfection, it’s quick enough for a weeknight yet impressive enough for company. The balance between the buttery richness and zesty acidity makes it an all-time favorite that’s easy to fall in love with again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating a harmony of flavors that’s both fresh and comforting. From the delicate cod fillets to the zesty lemon juice, these pantry staples come together effortlessly to elevate this meal.
- 4 cod fillets (about 150g each): The star of the dish with a mild flavor and flaky texture perfect for baking.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Helps keep the fish moist while adding a subtle richness.
- ½ tsp salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the cod without overpowering it.
- ¼ tsp black pepper: Adds a gentle kick that complements the delicate fish.
- ½ tsp paprika (optional): Provides a lovely color and a mild smoky spice.
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted: Creates the luscious base of the lemon butter sauce.
- 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice: Delivers refreshing brightness that cuts through the richness.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Adds aromatic depth and a subtle punch of flavor.
- 1 tsp honey (optional): Balances the acidity with a touch of natural sweetness.
- ½ tsp dried oregano or thyme: Introduces an earthy herbaceous note that complements seafood beautifully.
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For anyone who loves a little heat in their meals.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: A fresh and vibrant garnish.
- Lemon slices: Adds a zesty decorative touch and extra citrus flavor.
How to Make Easy Lemon Butter Baked Cod Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
First things first, get your oven warmed up to 200°C (400°F). This ensures that your cod will bake evenly and develop that perfect flake. Line your baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil to keep the delicate fish from sticking. This simple prep sets the stage for everything to come together smoothly.
Step 2: Season the Cod Fillets
Pat the cod fillets dry gently with a paper towel. This step is key so your fish doesn’t steam in the oven and can bake beautifully instead. Rub each fillet with olive oil, then sprinkle salt, black pepper, and paprika (if using). These seasonings give your cod a subtle depth of flavor and a hint of warm color.
Step 3: Whisk Up the Lemon Butter Sauce
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, honey if you like a little sweetness, dried oregano or thyme, and red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. Whisk them together until the flavors meld beautifully. This sauce is the heart of the Easy Lemon Butter Baked Cod Recipe and a blend you’ll want to sneak a taste of.
Step 4: Coat the Cod Fillets
Place your seasoned cod fillets neatly into the prepared baking dish. Pour the lemon butter sauce evenly over each fillet, making sure they’re generously coated. This is where the flavors start to marry, promising a tender and flavorful bite once baked.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 12 to 15 minutes, or until the cod flakes easily with a fork. Keep an eye on the thickness of your fillets as cooking times can vary slightly. The result should be perfectly moist cod with that irresistible lemon-butter glaze.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, immediately garnish your fish with freshly chopped parsley and a few lemon slices. This not only adds gorgeous color but also layers of fresh citrus aroma that complement the baked cod beautifully. Serve while warm to enjoy all the flavors at their peak.
How to Serve Easy Lemon Butter Baked Cod Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley and lemon slices are classic choices for a reason. They brighten the rich flavors and add a pop of color that makes your plate look as good as it tastes. Feel free to sprinkle a little extra cracked black pepper or even a dash of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky flair.
Side Dishes
This Easy Lemon Butter Baked Cod Recipe pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides. Think fluffy quinoa or steamed jasmine rice to soak up all that buttery sauce. Roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad add texture and balance, while buttery mashed potatoes bring a cozy touch to the table.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress, serve the cod on a bed of sautéed greens like spinach or kale, drizzled with extra lemon butter sauce. For casual entertaining, individual cast iron skillets heated on the table keep each portion warm and inviting. Adding edible flowers or microgreens as a final touch can instantly elevate presentation for special occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Easy Lemon Butter Baked Cod Recipe leftovers are best kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay fresh for up to two days, making it a great option for next-day lunches or quick dinners. Just be sure to keep the sauce with the fish to preserve all those vibrant flavors.
Freezing
While fresh is always best for baked cod, you can freeze cooked leftovers if needed. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen cod is best eaten within one month for optimal texture and taste. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
To reheat, use a low oven temperature or a microwave on a gentle setting to keep the fish moist and prevent it from drying out. Adding a small splash of water or a dab of extra butter before reheating can help maintain that luscious lemon butter sauce texture that makes this recipe so irresistible.
FAQs
Can I use other types of fish instead of cod?
Absolutely! While cod is fantastic for its mild flavor and flaky texture, you can swap it for haddock, tilapia, or halibut. Just remember to adjust cooking times based on thickness and the fish you choose.
Is the paprika necessary in this recipe?
Not at all. Paprika is optional and mainly adds a subtle smoky taste and lovely golden color. Feel free to skip it if you prefer or substitute with a pinch of smoked paprika for extra depth.
Can I prepare this recipe without honey?
Yes, the honey is totally optional. It helps balance the tangy lemon juice with a subtle sweetness, but if you prefer, you can omit it or substitute with a small amount of maple syrup or agave nectar.
What if I don’t have fresh lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is preferred for bright, zesty flavor, but bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch. Just use a little less to avoid overpowering the dish with acidity.
How can I make this recipe suitable for a larger group?
This Easy Lemon Butter Baked Cod Recipe is incredibly scalable! Just multiply the ingredients and use a larger baking dish or multiple pans. Keep an eye on cooking time as thicker fillets or larger batches may need a bit more time in the oven.
Final Thoughts
There is something universally comforting and delicious about the Easy Lemon Butter Baked Cod Recipe that makes every mealtime feel special without any fuss. Whether you’re feeding the family or whipping up a last-minute dinner for friends, this recipe hits all the right notes with its bright, buttery flavors and tender fish. Give it a try and let it become your go-to seafood recipe that’s as easy as it is irresistible.
Print
Easy Lemon Butter Baked Cod Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Easy Lemon Butter Baked Cod recipe features tender cod fillets baked to perfection with a tangy and buttery lemon sauce infused with garlic, herbs, and a hint of spice. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s a light, flavorful, and simple dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or elegant meal.
Ingredients
For the Cod:
- 4 cod fillets (about 150g each)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika (optional, for color and mild spice)
For the Lemon Butter Sauce:
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp honey (optional, to balance acidity)
- ½ tsp dried oregano or thyme
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon slices
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Cod Fillets: Pat the cod fillets dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Rub each fillet with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and paprika for enhanced flavor.
- Make the Lemon Butter Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, lemon juice, minced garlic, honey, dried oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes to create a flavorful sauce.
- Coat the Cod with the Sauce: Place the fillets in the prepared baking dish. Pour the lemon butter sauce over the fillets, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Bake the Cod: Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cod flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time may vary based on fillet thickness.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices for extra freshness. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- Make sure not to overcook the cod to keep it moist and tender.
- Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level.
- This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or a light salad.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute butter with olive oil or a dairy-free margarine.
- Fresh herbs like dill or basil can be used for garnish as an alternative to parsley.
