Easy Baked Cod with Garlic and Lemon Butter Recipe

Name: Easy Baked Cod with Garlic and Lemon Butter Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each); 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted; 2 tbsp olive oil; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish); Lemon wedges (for serving)

By Sophie Hart – Recipes and Home Inspiration

January 13, 2025

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Introduction and Quick Summary

Baked Cod with Garlic and Lemon Butter is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of the ocean with the zesty brightness of lemon. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also packed with nutrients, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The flaky texture of the cod pairs beautifully with the buttery garlic sauce, creating a meal that is both satisfying and elegant. In just under 30 minutes, you can serve up this delicious fish that will impress your family and friends alike.

This easy recipe allows you to enjoy a gourmet meal at home without spending hours in the kitchen. With minimal ingredients required, you can whip up this dish using pantry staples and fresh produce. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this baked cod recipe is foolproof. Plus, it’s versatile enough to accompany various sides such as roasted vegetables or rice pilaf.

In this article, we’ll walk through the main ingredients you’ll need to create this flavorful dish, provide detailed preparation steps to ensure your success in making it at home, and share some serving and storing tips to enhance your culinary experience. Get ready to enjoy Baked Cod with Garlic and Lemon Butter – a dish that’s sure to become a favorite!

Main Ingredients

Fresh Cod Fillets

Fresh cod fillets are the star of this dish. Look for fillets that are firm to the touch and smell like the sea – fresh but not fishy. For this recipe, you’ll need about 1 pound of fresh cod fillets. This amount typically serves about four people when paired alongside side dishes. When cooked correctly, cod should flake easily but remain moist inside.

Unsalted Butter

Unsalted butter adds richness to our garlic lemon sauce without adding extra saltiness. You’ll require 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) of unsalted butter for this recipe. This ingredient melts beautifully and coats the fish perfectly while enhancing its flavor profile. If you prefer a healthier option, substitute half of the butter with olive oil for added heart-healthy fats.

Fresh Garlic

Garlic infuses our dish with aromatic flavor. You will need 4 cloves of fresh garlic minced finely for this recipe. When sautéed in butter, garlic releases its pungent aroma which complements the delicate taste of cod beautifully. Use fresh garlic instead of pre-minced varieties for maximum flavor impact.

Fresh Lemon Juice

Lemon juice provides acidity that brightens up the flavors in our dish. You will need juice from one medium-sized lemon (approximately 3 tablespoons). Freshly squeezed lemon juice works best as it brings vibrant flavor compared to bottled alternatives. A touch of lemon zest can also be added for an extra citrusy kick.

Salt and Pepper

Salt and pepper are essential seasonings that enhance all other flavors in your dish. Use approximately 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of freshly cracked black pepper for seasoning your cod before baking. Adjust these quantities according to your taste preferences.

Recipe preparation

How to Prepare Baked Cod with Garlic and Lemon Butter

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is optimal for baking fish as it ensures even cooking while keeping it moist inside. While your oven heats up, gather all necessary ingredients on your countertop so they are easily accessible during preparation.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Take a baking dish or sheet pan large enough to accommodate your cod fillets without overcrowding them; this allows proper heat circulation around each piece during cooking. Lightly grease the bottom of the baking dish using half a tablespoon of melted butter or olive oil; this prevents sticking while adding additional flavor to the base.

Step 3: Season Your Cod

Place your fresh cod fillets into the greased baking dish carefully ensuring they lie flat without overlapping each other; this promotes even cooking throughout all pieces. Sprinkle salt and pepper evenly over both sides of each fillet—this step enhances their natural flavor while helping create a delicious crust when baked.

Step 4: Make Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt remaining unsalted butter until fully liquefied—about two minutes should suffice depending on stovetop settings; keep an eye on it so it does not brown excessively which would alter flavor negatively! Once melted add minced garlic stirring constantly until fragrant—approximately one minute—before removing from heat immediately afterward; burnt garlic can turn bitter ruining overall taste profile!

Next pour freshly squeezed lemon juice into pan mixing thoroughly before drizzling mixture generously over seasoned cod fillets within baking dish ensuring every piece receives its fair share!

Step 5: Bake Your Cod

Now it’s time for baking! Place prepared baking dish into preheated oven allowing fillets bake undisturbed for approximately 12-15 minutes depending on thickness—the internal temperature should reach around 145°F (63°C) when perfectly cooked! Keep an eye on them towards end cooking time; if edges begin browning too much cover lightly using aluminum foil preventing drying out while still allowing steam escape maintaining moisture levels.

Step 6: Garnish Before Serving

Once baked remove from oven carefully using oven mitts as dishes will be hot! Allow resting momentarily before serving garnishing each plate optionally with additional lemon wedges alongside sprigs fresh parsley if desired—this elevates presentation adding visual appeal alongside zesty brightness complementing flavors perfectly!

Serving and storing

Serving and Storing Tips

Serving Suggestions

When serving Baked Cod with Garlic and Lemon Butter consider pairing it with sides that enhance its delicate flavors without overpowering them! Roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts work wonderfully due their slight caramelization boosting sweetness while balancing savory notes present within fish itself perfectly! Alternatively fluffy rice pilaf infused herbs offers lightness soaking up any leftover juices created during cooking making every bite enjoyable!

For those seeking something more substantial consider pairing alongside creamy mashed potatoes which act as comforting foundation beneath succulent flaky bites providing contrast textures enticing palates further enhancing dining experience altogether!

Storage Guidelines

Leftover Baked Cod can be stored safely in airtight containers within refrigerator where they remain good up-to three days after initial preparation! To reheat simply place desired portions onto microwave-safe plates covering loosely damp paper towel preventing drying out—heat intervals should be short allowing gentle warming rather than excessive heating thus preserving moisture content adequately ensuring tender succulent bites upon consumption once again!

If longer storage is needed consider freezing leftovers instead—transferring cooled portions into freezer bags removing excess air sealing tightly prior placing within freezer where they can last two months max without compromising quality! Thaw overnight within refrigerator before reheating following same methods outlined above enabling enjoyable meals even days weeks ahead effortlessly!

Enjoy creating memorable moments around table sharing delightful culinary experiences crafted through simple yet exquisite recipes such as our mouthwatering Baked Cod featuring tantalizing combination garlic citrus flavors everyone loves indulging upon!

Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake when making Baked Cod with Garlic and Lemon Butter is overcooking the fish. Cod is a delicate white fish that cooks quickly. If left in the oven for too long, it can become dry and lose its flavor. To prevent this, keep an eye on the cooking time and check for doneness at around 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets. The fish should flake easily with a fork but still be moist.

Another mistake is using old or low-quality ingredients. Freshness plays a crucial role in enhancing the flavors of this dish. Always choose fresh cod fillets from a reputable source. Additionally, ensure your garlic is fresh and not sprouted or dried out, as this can impact the overall taste. Lemons should also be firm and juicy for maximum zest and juice extraction.

Failing to adequately season your cod before baking is another pitfall. While lemon butter adds flavor, it’s essential to season the fish itself with salt and pepper before applying any toppings. This step ensures that every bite is bursting with flavor rather than relying solely on the sauce.

Lastly, don’t skip preheating your oven. A properly preheated oven ensures even cooking and helps achieve that beautiful golden crust on top of your cod. If you place your fish in a cold oven, it could lead to uneven cooking and an unappetizing texture.

Tips and Tricks

To make your Baked Cod with Garlic and Lemon Butter truly shine, consider marinating the fish prior to baking. A simple marinade made of olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper can infuse the cod with flavor while keeping it moist during cooking. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before baking to enhance its taste significantly.

Using a good quality butter is also essential for elevating this dish. Look for unsalted butter that has a rich flavor profile. This allows you to control the salt content more effectively while ensuring that you capture all the flavors of garlic and lemon without overwhelming them.

Don’t forget about garnishes! Fresh herbs like parsley or dill can add a pop of color and freshness when sprinkled over your baked cod just before serving. These herbs complement the dish beautifully and provide an additional layer of flavor that enhances the overall experience.

Another tip is to pair your Baked Cod with Garlic and Lemon Butter with sides that balance its flavors. Consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables or a light salad dressed with vinaigrette. This will create a well-rounded meal that highlights the deliciousness of the cod while providing texture contrasts.

Lastly, presentation matters! When serving Baked Cod with Garlic and Lemon Butter, arrange it neatly on dinner plates, drizzling extra sauce over each portion for an appealing look. A few lemon wedges on the side not only add visual appeal but also allow guests to adjust acidity levels according to their preference.

Suggestions for Baked Cod with Garlic and Lemon Butter

When preparing Baked Cod with Garlic and Lemon Butter, selecting the right type of cod is vital for achieving excellent results. Opt for Atlantic cod or Pacific cod as they are known for their mild flavor and flaky texture when cooked properly. Avoid using frozen fillets if possible; fresh fish will always yield better taste and texture.

Consider incorporating additional flavors into your lemon butter sauce as well. For example, adding capers gives a briny touch that pairs beautifully with the richness of butter while enhancing the dish’s overall complexity. You might also experiment by mixing in some crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of heat or swapping out regular garlic for roasted garlic for a sweeter note.

Cooking methods can also vary; try using parchment paper for baking instead of foil or directly on a baking sheet. This technique promotes even cooking while allowing steam to circulate around the fish, ensuring it remains moist without losing flavor during preparation.

For those looking to reduce calorie intake without sacrificing taste, consider substituting half of the butter with Greek yogurt or olive oil in your sauce recipe. This adjustment still provides creamy richness but lightens up the overall dish without compromising on flavor.

Finally, experimenting with different side dishes can transform how you enjoy Baked Cod with Garlic and Lemon Butter! Try pairing it with zoodles (zucchini noodles), quinoa salad, or even mashed cauliflower—each option brings its unique flavors that complement your main course beautifully.

FAQs

What can I serve with Baked Cod?

Pairing sides like roasted vegetables or quinoa salad complements Baked Cod with Garlic and Lemon Butter perfectly. Roasted asparagus or green beans add freshness while balancing buttery richness from the dish itself.

Can I use frozen cod fillets?

Yes! While fresh cod offers superior taste, frozen fillets can work in a pinch if thawed correctly beforehand—preferably overnight in your refrigerator—to maintain texture during cooking.

How do I know when my cod is done?

The best way to check if Baked Cod is finished cooking is by inserting a fork gently into its thickest part; it should flake easily yet remain moist inside—typically after 12-15 minutes at 400°F (200°C).

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

For optimal freshness, prepare components separately ahead of time—like marinating fish—and bake just before serving! This ensures everything tastes vibrant without compromising quality due to extended storage times.

What if I don’t have lemons?

If lemons aren’t available at hand—you could substitute them using lime juice instead! Although slightly different in taste profile—it still creates brightness within sauces similar enough for delicious outcomes!

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! You can easily scale up portions based on needs while storing leftovers properly post-preparation allows enjoyment throughout week-long meals without repetitive flavors—just reheat gently!

Conclusion

Baked Cod with Garlic and Lemon Butter stands out as an elegant yet easy-to-make dish that pleases anyone’s palate at home or during special occasions alike! By avoiding common mistakes such as overcooking or using low-quality ingredients, you ensure each bite delivers maximum satisfaction from start to finish.

Incorporating useful tips like marinating beforehand adds depth while choosing suitable sides enhances overall enjoyment further elevates its status among family favorites! Experimentation leads towards discovering delightful variations tailored personally around preferences—whether adding spices or swapping ingredients completely!

Ultimately enjoying this flavorful baked cod recipe will become memorable moments shared around dining tables—bringing loved ones together through delicious culinary creations worth celebrating repeatedly!

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