Lemon Butter Baked Cod

A Quick, Healthy, and Delicious Simple Seafood Delight

This Lemon Butter Baked Cod recipe is a simple yet elegant seafood dish that’s perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The fresh zestiness of lemon and the richness of butter, adds dazzling flavor to the mild and flaky cod.

Serves 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1 tablespoon parsley, finely chopped
Lemon slices, for garnish

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish suitable for the size of your cod fillets.
Prepare the Cod: Place the cod fillets in the prepared baking dish. Season both sides of the cod with salt and pepper, to taste.
Make the Lemon Butter Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, lemon juice, minced garlic, and paprika. Mix well.
Apply the Sauce: Pour the lemon butter mixture over the cod fillets in the baking dish. Make sure each fillet is evenly coated with the sauce.
Bake the Cod: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The exact time may vary depending on the thickness of your cod fillets.
Garnish and Serve: Once done, remove the cod from the oven. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and lemon slices.
Enjoy: Serve hot with your choice of sides, such as steamed vegetables, rice, or a salad.

Variation: Pan-Seared Lemon Butter Baked Cod

For an added dimension of texture and flavor, consider giving your cod fillets a quick sear before baking. This method introduces a slightly crispy exterior that beautifully complements the tender, flaky interior.

Additional Ingredients:

1 tablespoon olive oil

Adjusted Instructions:

Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C), setting up for the baking process later.
Heat Pan: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Wait until the oil is shimmering but not smoking.
Sear the Cod: Season the cod fillets with salt and pepper. Carefully place them in the skillet, and sear for about 1-2 minutes on each side, just until you get a golden crust. Be gentle to avoid breaking the fillets.

Prepare for Baking: Transfer the seared cod fillets into your greased baking dish. Proceed by pouring the previously prepared lemon butter mixture over the fillets.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. Since the cod is partially cooked from the sear, the baking time might be slightly reduced.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish with parsley and lemon slices before serving, as usual.