The tender fish glistens under a buttery lemon glaze that is nothing short of enchanting. The moment you take a bite of the Lemon Butter Baked Cod, the delicate flavors dance on your palate like a well-choreographed ballet.
I remember the first time I made this dish—it was one of those “I’m trying to impress someone” moments. Spoiler alert: it worked! Nothing says “I care” like cooking a delicious meal filled with love and a zesty citrus kick.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- You’ll whip this up in no time; it’s simple yet impressive enough for guests
- The flavor profile is rich with zest and creaminess that excites every taste bud
- Its visual appeal will make your dinner table sparkle like it’s ready for a magazine shoot
- Versatile enough for casual weeknights or festive gatherings!
Family members were impressed with my culinary skills when I served them this dish on a special occasion.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Cod Fillets: Opt for fresh or thawed cod fillets; they should be firm and have a mild smell.
- Unsalted Butter: Choose high-quality butter for the best flavor; it makes all the difference.
- Fresh Lemons: Use juicy lemons for maximum zest and juice; they brighten up the dish wonderfully.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic adds depth; avoid pre-minced varieties if you can.
- Fresh Parsley: This herb brings color and freshness; chop finely for even distribution.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings; use sea salt for a touch of class.
- Paprika: Adds a hint of smokiness; prefer smoked paprika if you’re feeling adventurous!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Get out an oven-safe baking dish and lightly grease it with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
Create the Flavorful Sauce: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter until it sizzles softly—this should take about two minutes.
Add Zesty Goodness: Squeeze in the juice of two fresh lemons and add minced garlic to the melted butter. Stir until fragrant—about one minute—because who doesn’t love that garlicky aroma wafting through their kitchen?
Season Your Cod: Place your cod fillets in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle half of your lemon-butter mixture over them while sprinkling salt, pepper, and paprika on top.
Bake That Beauty!: Pop the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork. It should look golden brown at the edges.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Once cooked, remove from oven and sprinkle chopped parsley over the top before serving to elevate its visual appeal.
Serve immediately with a squeeze of extra lemon juice—because let’s be real, extra zing is always welcome!
In conclusion, making Lemon Butter Baked Cod isn’t just about satisfying hunger; it’s about creating an experience that tantalizes taste buds while filling hearts with joy. So gather around your dining table tonight—you’re in for a treat!
You Must Know
- This lemon butter baked cod creates a delightful meal that’s both light and satisfying
- The combination of lemon and butter elevates the fish’s flavor, making it perfect for any occasion
- It’s quick to prepare, so you can impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C), then prepare the cod fillets with seasoning. Bake them for about 15-20 minutes until flaky. This sequence ensures that everything cooks evenly and retains moisture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the cod for another fish like tilapia or salmon. Add fresh herbs such as parsley or dill for an aromatic twist. A sprinkle of paprika can also enhance the dish with a subtle kick.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover lemon butter baked cod in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to maintain its delicious texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly cooked cod, always check if it’s opaque and flakes easily with a fork
- Avoid overcooking; it can dry out quickly!
- Use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled for vibrant flavor enhancement
The first time I made lemon butter baked cod, my friends couldn’t believe how easy it was! They devoured every bite and even asked for seconds, which made me feel like a culinary superstar that evening.
FAQ
Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?
Yes, just thaw it completely before cooking for best results.
What side dishes pair well with baked cod?
Roasted veggies or a light salad complement this dish beautifully.
How do I know when the cod is fully cooked?
The fish should be opaque and flake easily with a fork when done.
Lemon Butter Baked Cod
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Lemon Butter Baked Cod is a delectable dish featuring tender fish enveloped in a rich, zesty lemon-butter sauce. Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy family dinner.
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 2 fresh lemons (juiced)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease an oven-safe baking dish.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, then stir in lemon juice and minced garlic until fragrant.
- Arrange the cod fillets in the prepared dish and drizzle half of the lemon-butter mixture over them. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cod fillet (170g)
- Calories: 327
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 73mg
Keywords: Substitute cod with tilapia or salmon for variety. Fresh herbs like dill can add an aromatic twist. For added flavor, consider marinating the fish in lemon juice for 30 minutes prior to baking.
