Lemon Butter Baked Cod

It’s 6pm and you need dinner fast. If you’re craving something light and flavorful, this is for you. This Lemon Butter Baked Cod delivers big flavor with minimal effort.

You don’t need fancy skills to make great seafood. This recipe is simple, fast, and healthy. It is the perfect way to get dinner on the table quickly.

Why You’ll Make This Again

This recipe is a lifesaver for a busy quick weeknight dinner. It is light enough for a fresh Spring meal. You only need one baking dish for the process. The fish comes out perfectly flaky every single time. It is a great choice for a healthy reset too. You get restaurant-quality results in just 25 minutes.

How This Comes Together

This dish is incredibly simple to prepare. You just whisk a few pantry staples together. The oven does all the hard work for you. There is no messy flouring or frying involved. Beginners will find this recipe totally stress-free. It is a reliable win for any home cook.

What You’ll Need

Most of these ingredients are likely in your kitchen now. Fresh fish and pantry staples make this easy.

• 1.5 lbs cod fillets, cut into 4 portions
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
• 0.5 teaspoon dried oregano
• 0.5 teaspoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 lemon, sliced into rounds

Step-By-Step Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pat cod fillets dry using paper towels and arrange in a single layer in a lightly greased baking dish.
3. In a small mixing bowl, combine melted butter, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, pepper, oregano, and paprika.
4. Drizzle the butter mixture evenly over the cod fillets.
5. Place lemon slices on top of each fillet.
6. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
7. Remove from oven and garnish with fresh parsley.

How To Serve It

This fish looks beautiful right out of the oven. Serve it over a bed of fluffy white rice. Add some steamed green beans for a complete meal. It also pairs perfectly with a crisp side salad. This is impressive enough for casual hosting too. Your guests will love the bright, citrusy flavors.

Leftovers & Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container. Keep them in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat the fish gently in the oven at 300°F. This prevents the cod from becoming rubbery or dry. You can also flake the cold fish into a salad. It makes a fantastic easy lunch the next day.

Make It Even Better (Pro Tips)

• Always pat the fish dry to help the butter stick.
• Do not skip the fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
• Avoid overbaking to keep the fish moist and tender.
• Use a meat thermometer to check for exactly 145°F.
• Try this for a healthy reset meal during the week.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Use fresh garlic instead of powder for a better aroma.
• Swap cod for tilapia if you want a thinner fillet.

Easy Ways To Change It Up

• Add panko breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy texture.
• Use lime juice and cilantro for a Mexican-inspired twist.
• Try this recipe with salmon for a richer flavor.
• Toss in some cherry tomatoes before baking for extra veggies.

Quick Questions

Can I use frozen cod?

Yes, you can use frozen fillets. Just make sure to thaw them completely first. Pat them very dry before adding the butter sauce.

How do I know when the fish is done?

The fish should be opaque throughout. It should flake easily when poked with a fork. An internal temperature of 145°F is perfect.

I hope you love this simple and delicious meal. It is proof that healthy food can be fast and flavorful. Give it a try tonight!

— Ethan

Lemon Butter Baked Cod

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 245

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

  

• 1.5 lbs cod fillets, cut into 4 portions
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 3 cloves garlic , minced
• 0.5 teaspoon sal t
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
• 0.5 teaspoon dried oregano
• 0.5 teaspoon paprik a
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 lemon , sliced into rounds

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pat cod fillets dry using paper towels and arrange in a single layer in a lightly greased baking dish.
3. In a small mixing bowl, combine melted butter, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, pepper, oregano, and paprika.
4. Drizzle the butter mixture evenly over the cod fillets.
5. Place lemon slices on top of each fillet.
6. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
7. Remove from oven and garnish with fresh parsley.