Lemon Butter Baked Cod Recipe - Chloe's Cozy Kitchen

Spread the love

Lemon Butter Baked Cod – A Light and Flavorful Dinner Recipe

If you are looking for a healthy and flavorful dinner recipe, this Lemon Butter Baked Cod is a perfect choice. It is light, flaky, and packed with fresh citrus and buttery goodness. This dish is simple to prepare, making it ideal for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion. With just a few ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality seafood dish at home.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Key Ingredients and Their Roles

Cod Fillets – A mild, flaky white fish that absorbs flavors well.
Butter – Adds richness and helps keep the cod moist while baking.
Lemon Juice & Zest – Enhances the freshness of the dish with bright, tangy flavors.
Garlic – Provides a warm, savory depth to the lemon butter sauce.
Olive Oil – Helps prevent the fish from drying out and adds a light crispness.
Paprika – Adds a subtle smoky flavor and a hint of color.
Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of the cod.
Fresh Parsley – Adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.

Recipe’s Ingredients

4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)
3 tablespoons butter, melted
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Lemon slices for garnish

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F.
Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Butter Sauce

In a small bowl, mix melted butter, olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, and minced garlic.

Step 3: Season the Cod Fillets

Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Place them in the prepared baking dish.
Season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.

Step 4: Add the Lemon Butter Mixture

Pour the lemon butter mixture evenly over the fillets.
Arrange lemon slices on top for extra flavor.

Step 5: Bake the Cod

Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cod flakes easily with a fork.
If desired, broil for an additional 2 minutes to give the top a light golden color.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
Serve hot with extra lemon slices on the side.

Expert Tips for Perfect Lemon Butter Baked Cod Recipe

Use fresh cod fillets for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen cod, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
Do not overbake the fish. Cod is done when it reaches 145°F and flakes easily with a fork.
If you prefer a crispier top, broil the cod for the last 2 minutes of cooking.
Adding lemon slices while baking infuses the fish with extra citrus flavor.

Presentation Tips

Serve cod on a large platter with fresh lemon slices and a sprinkle of parsley.
Pair with roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Drizzle extra lemon butter sauce over the fillets just before serving for added richness.

Creative Twists

Spicy Lemon Butter Cod – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for heat.
Parmesan Crusted Cod – Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the fillets before baking for a crispy, cheesy topping.
Mediterranean Style – Add cherry tomatoes, olives, and capers to the baking dish for a Mediterranean-inspired twist.
Garlic Herb Butter Cod – Mix fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or dill into the butter sauce for extra depth.

Pro Tip for Customization

If you prefer a different type of fish, halibut, tilapia, or haddock work well with this recipe. Adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the thickness of the fillets.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?
A: Yes, but thaw it completely and pat it dry before baking to avoid excess moisture.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F to avoid drying out.

Q: Can I cook this recipe in a skillet instead of baking?
A: Yes, you can pan-sear the cod in a skillet over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes per side, then pour the lemon butter sauce over it before serving.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Butter Baked Cod is a light, flavorful, and easy-to-make dinner recipe that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you are preparing a healthy weeknight meal or a special seafood dish, this recipe is sure to impress. The combination of flaky cod, rich butter, and bright lemon flavors makes it a dish you will want to make again and again.

Looking for more easy dinner recipes? Visit Chloe’s Cozy Kitchen for more delicious and simple meal ideas.

Spread the love