This lemon butter baked cod is a real treat! With flaky fish, a zesty lemon flavor, and rich butter, it’s quick to make and oh-so-tasty.
You’ll love how easy it is to prepare. Just pop it in the oven and let the magic happen—perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious in no time!
crispy but not burnt. If needed, cover the fish loosely with foil if it’s browning too quickly.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cod Fillets: Fresh cod is the star of this dish, offering a mild taste and flaky texture. However, you can swap it for other white fish like tilapia, haddock, or snapper if you prefer.
Unsalted Butter: Butter adds richness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, substitute with olive oil or use a dairy-free butter alternative for a vegan-friendly twist.
Lemon Juice and Zest: Fresh lemon is key for bright flavor. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice can work. However, zesting a lemon boosts the taste significantly, so try to use fresh if you can!
Garlic: Fresh garlic enhances depth of flavor. For a milder taste, feel free to use garlic powder or substitute with shallots for a different flair.
How Do You Bake Cod Perfectly Without Overcooking?
Baking cod to perfection is crucial to enjoying its delicate textures. Here are some tips:
- Preheat your oven to ensure even cooking. A hot oven helps the fish cook quickly and evenly.
- Pat the cod dry. This helps the butter mixture stick and allows for better browning.
- Check for doneness after 12 minutes. Cod is done when it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Avoid overbaking to maintain its moisture!
- Keep an eye on the edges; they should appear slightly
Easy Lemon Butter Baked Cod
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Cod:
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- For the Lemon Butter Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- For Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Lemon slices, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful lemon butter baked cod takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 12-15 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll need around 25-30 minutes for a delicious meal that’s quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is important to ensure even cooking.
2. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper. This makes for easy cleanup later!
3. Dry the Cod:
Take your cod fillets and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the flavors stick better when you add the sauce.
4. Mix the Lemon Butter Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter with the fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper. Stir it well until everything is mixed together.
5. Coat the Cod:
Place the cod fillets in the prepared baking dish. Then, spoon the lemon butter mixture evenly over each fillet, making sure they are well coated.
6. Bake the Cod:
Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. The cod is done when it is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once your cod is cooked to perfection, take it out of the oven. Garnish with chopped parsley and lemon slices if you like. Serve immediately with your favorite sides like steamed vegetables or rice.
Enjoy your easy, flavorful lemon butter baked cod!
FAQs About Easy Lemon Butter Baked Cod
Can I Use Frozen Cod for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If using frozen cod, make sure it’s fully thawed before starting. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight for best results, or place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for quicker thawing.
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
For a lighter option, you can use olive oil instead of butter or reduce the amount of butter used. Additionally, serving the cod with a side of steamed vegetables instead of rice can also lower calories while adding nutrients.
What Sides Pair Well with Lemon Butter Baked Cod?
This baked cod pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! Consider serving it with steamed broccoli, asparagus, or a fresh garden salad. Mashed potatoes or quinoa also make excellent choices to complete the meal.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, let the cod cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the oven or microwave, ensuring not to overcook to retain moisture.
