I really enjoyed creating this Baked Cod With Lemon Butter Sauce that freshens up any weeknight meal. I use tender cod fillets coated in melted unsalted butter, garlic, lemon juice, and zest, balanced with fresh parsley and a pinch of cayenne pepper. This dish packs a vibrant little twist.

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I’m super excited to share my take on Baked Lemon Butter Cod. I’ve always been a fan of quick, effortless meals on busy weeknights, and this dish fits the bill perfectly.

I start with 4 cod fillets that i season with salt and black pepper. Then i mix in 3 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter with 2 garlic cloves minced up real fine, the juice of one large lemon, and lemon zest from one lemon.

Sometimes, if im feeling a bit adventurous, i throw in a pinch of cayenne pepper. After drizzling this sauce over the fish, i top it off with about 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley.

This recipe has become one of my go-to Fish Recipes Cod Baked ideas since it reminds me of that perfect balance of bold lemon flavor and creamy garlic butter. Trust me when i say, this Baked Cod With Lemon Butter Sauce is going to become a favorite in your dinner rotation.

Enjoy!

Why I Like this Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s super quick and easy to make. I don’t have to spend hours in the kitchen like some other meals and its perfect when i need something on a busy night. I also really like the taste; the garlic lemon butter sauce gives it a fresh and tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the mild cod, which makes it so delish. Another reason i enjoy this dish is because it’s simple enough that I can adjust the seasoning exactly how i like it – sometimes i add a little extra parsley or a bit more garlic if i’m in the mood for stronger flavour. Lastly, it always feels like a treat even though it’s easy to whip up, and that makes me feel like i’m really rewarding myself after a long day.

Ingredients

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Cod fillets provide lean, high-quality protein and tasty texture.
Unsalted butter offers a rich, creamy flavor that makes dish delcious.
Garlic adds bold aroma, subtle spice, and potential health boost benefits.
Lemon juice combined with zest gives a tangy, sour lift to flavor.
Fresh parsley supplies vitamins while adding a burst of herbal brightness.
A pinch of cayenne pepper introduces gentle heat and vibrant excitement.
Salt and black pepper enhance savory notes, perfectly balancing the overall dish.
This recipe expertly combines flavors and textures, delivering a satisfying and balanced meal.
Each ingredient works together, making every bite uniquely aromatic and heartwarming.

Ingredient Quantities

4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)

Salt (to taste)

Black pepper (to taste)

3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

2 garlic cloves, minced

Juice of 1 large lemon

Zest from 1 lemon

Fresh parsley, chopped (about 2 tablespoons)

A pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)

How to Make this

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1. Preheat your oven to 400°F, and lightly grease a baking dish so the fish doesn’t stick.

2. Pat your cod fillets dry then season them on each side with salt and black pepper to taste.

3. In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, and lemon zest.

4. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley and if you like a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

5. Place the seasoned cod fillets in the prepared baking dish making sure they are all spread out evenly.

6. Pour the garlic lemon butter sauce over the fish so every piece is well covered.

7. Pop the dish in your preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the fish easily flakes with a fork.

8. Once done, remove the cod from the oven and let it sit for a couple minutes.

9. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed, maybe adding a sprinkle more fresh parsley on top.

10. Serve your Baked Lemon Butter Cod hot with your favorite sides and enjoy your yummy meal!

Equipment Needed

1. Preheated oven set to 400°F
2. Baking dish (lightly greased)
3. Paper towels (for patting the cod fillets dry)
4. Small mixing bowl (for the garlic lemon butter sauce)
5. Measuring spoons (to measure butter, lemon juice and spices)
6. Knife and cutting board (for mincing garlic, chopping parsley, and zesting the lemon)
7. Whisk or fork (for blending the butter mixture)
8. Oven mitts (for safely removing the hot baking dish)

FAQ

Q: Can I use another type of fish?

A: Yes you can but cod is best for its mild flavor and flaky texture, other white fish might work too but the baking time may vary.

Q: How do I know when my cod is done?

A: It should flake easily with a fork and turn opaque all the way through, making sure it's cooked in the center.

Q: Can I adjust the garlic and lemon?

A: Definitely, if you love garlic or lemon, feel free to add extra for more kick, but be carefull not to overpower the fish.

Q: What should I serve with this dish?

A: This dish goes great with steamed veggies, rice or even a simple salad, so feel free to mix things up based on what you have.

Q: Is the cayenne pepper necessary?

A: Not at all its optional, you can leave it out if you dont like extra spice, or add a pinch if you want a little heat.

Baked Lemon Butter Cod Recipe Substitutions and Variations

If you cant find cod you could use tilapia or haddock its pretty similar and works well in this recipe
You can swap unsalted butter with ghee or even a light olive oil if you don’t have butter on hand
Lemon juice can be replaced with lime juice if you wanna try a different citrus twist
Instead of minced garlic you could use garlic powder in a pinch, just adjust the amount so it doesnt overpower the dish
If you dont like cayenne pepper or its too hard to find try a pinch of red pepper flakes to get a similar heat

Pro Tips

1. Make sure your cod is really dry before seasoning, cause any extra moisture can stop that buttery flavor from sticking well.
2. If you have time, let the fish sit for 5-10 minutes after you pour on the garlic lemon sauce so it soaks up all that taste extra.
3. Always peek at your fish a few minutes before the timer goes off so you dont accidentally overcook it which can make it dry.
4. Try adding a little sprinkle of extra parsley or even a splash more lemon at the very end if you want a brighter, fresher kick.