Garlic Butter Baked Cod is a simple yet elegant dish that transforms tender cod fillets into a gourmet delight. Infused with rich garlic butter and fresh lemon juice, this recipe delivers a savory flavor explosion in every bite. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, it’s easy to prepare and sure to impress your family and friends. Serve it alongside your favorite sides for a complete meal that tantalizes the taste buds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Garlic Butter Baked Cod is the perfect combination of simplicity and flavor. The buttery garlic sauce coats the cod fillets, adding richness, while the lemon juice brings a burst of freshness that balances the flavors. The cod remains tender and flaky, with minimal prep time, making this dish ideal for both busy nights and elegant meals. With only a few ingredients, it’s a breeze to make, yet so impressive when served!
Ingredients
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4 fresh cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
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1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
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4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
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2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
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2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
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Salt and pepper to taste
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
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In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in lemon juice and remove from heat.
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Place the cod fillets in the greased baking dish and pour the garlic butter mixture over them.
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Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
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Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 4
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 15 minutes
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Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
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Add Herbs: Try adding thyme, rosemary, or dill for an extra layer of flavor.
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Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper with the garlic butter.
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Cheesy Cod: Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top of the cod fillets before baking for a cheesy crust.
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Vegetable Side: Serve with roasted vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
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Reheating: To reheat, place the cod fillets in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave it for about 1-2 minutes, but this may affect the texture of the fish.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cod, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking for the best results.
2. Can I substitute the cod with another fish?
Yes, you can use other white fish like tilapia or haddock in place of cod. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the fillets.
3. How do I know when the cod is fully cooked?
Cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork. It should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the garlic butter sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it when ready to bake the cod.
5. Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes, you can add vegetables to the baking dish. Asparagus, green beans, or cherry tomatoes are great options.
6. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Garlic Butter Baked Cod is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that any additional seasonings or sides you use are gluten-free as well.
7. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but be sure to adjust the amount of salt you add to the dish to avoid making it too salty.
8. What should I serve with this dish?
Garlic Butter Baked Cod pairs beautifully with roasted potatoes, rice, or a fresh green salad. You could also serve it with a side of steamed vegetables.
9. Can I grill the cod instead of baking it?
Yes, you can grill the cod if you prefer. Grill over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until it flakes easily.
10. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to prevent the fish from becoming dry.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Baked Cod is a simple yet elegant seafood dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. With its rich buttery flavor and fresh lemon zest, it’s perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to special gatherings. With easy-to-find ingredients and quick preparation, you’ll enjoy a delicious meal without the fuss. Try it today, and impress your loved ones with this irresistible, flavorful dish!
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Garlic Butter Baked Cod Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Garlic Butter Baked Cod recipe transforms simple cod fillets into a gourmet meal with rich garlic butter, fresh lemon juice, and a touch of parsley. Quick to prepare in just 25 minutes, this flavorful dish is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Serve it with your favorite sides for a delightful, elegant dinner.
Ingredients
4 fresh cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in lemon juice and remove the saucepan from heat.
Place the cod fillets in the greased baking dish and pour the garlic butter mixture over them.
Season with salt and pepper to taste, then bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve.
Notes
For a richer flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture for a slight kick.
You can use frozen cod fillets; just make sure to thaw them before baking.
Serve alongside a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baked
