Delicate, flaky, and infused with a vibrant citrusy richness, lemon butter baked cod is a simple yet elegant dish that highlights the natural sweetness of the fish. The balance of buttery smoothness and zesty freshness makes it a standout meal, perfect for busy weeknights or a special dinner. With minimal prep and a short baking time, this recipe offers a foolproof way to enjoy a flavorful seafood dish without hassle.
Ingredient Breakdown
High-quality ingredients play a crucial role in the success of this dish. Fresh or properly thawed cod fillets ensure a tender, flaky texture, as frozen fillets can release excess moisture and affect the final result. The rich, velvety unsalted butter melts into the fish, creating a luscious base for the sauce, while the lemon juice and zest introduce a bright, tangy contrast that enhances the cod’s mild flavor. Seasonings like garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper provide depth without overpowering the delicate fish, complementing its natural sweetness. Finally, a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a mild herbal note that brings everything together, making each bite refreshing and well-balanced.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Preparing the Oven and Baking Dish
Preheating the oven to 400°F (204°C) is essential to ensure the cod bakes evenly and retains its moisture. A 9×13-inch baking dish is ideal, providing enough space to arrange the fillets in a single layer without overcrowding, which helps achieve uniform cooking.
Drying and Arranging the Fillets
Properly drying the fillets with paper towels removes excess moisture, preventing a soggy texture. Once dried, arranging them evenly in the baking dish allows the flavors to be absorbed thoroughly while ensuring consistent heat distribution for perfectly baked fish.
Creating the Lemon Butter Mixture
Melting the butter over low heat or in a microwave ensures a smooth, even texture without burning. The addition of freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest creates a balance of richness and acidity, enhancing the natural flavors of the cod without overwhelming it. Whisking these ingredients together ensures the citrusy notes are evenly distributed throughout the sauce.
Coating and Seasoning the Fillets
Brushing the lemon butter mixture generously over the fillets allows the flavors to seep into every bite. Sprinkling garlic powder, salt, and black pepper on both sides ensures even seasoning, intensifying the dish’s overall depth. Flipping the fillets and repeating the process guarantees that every piece is coated with bold, zesty, and savory flavors.
Baking to Perfection
Once in the oven, the cod should bake for 12 to 15 minutes, depending on thickness. The ideal internal temperature is 135-140°F (57-60°C), signaling doneness. When perfectly cooked, the fillets turn opaque and flake effortlessly with a fork, ensuring a moist, tender texture.
Garnishing and Serving Immediately
A final sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley enhances both the presentation and flavor. Serving the cod immediately preserves its delicate texture, allowing the buttery sauce to remain warm and flavorful.
Recipe Tips & Frequently Asked Questions
Preventing Dryness:
Avoid overcooking by keeping an eye on the internal temperature and removing the cod once it reaches 135-140°F (57-60°C).
Enhancing the Lemon Flavor:
For a bolder citrus taste, add an extra teaspoon of zest or a drizzle of fresh lemon juice before serving.
Alternative Cooking Methods:
This recipe can be adapted for grilling or pan-searing, providing a slightly crispier exterior while maintaining the same buttery, tangy essence.
Storing and Reheating:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, warm in a low-temperature oven or a covered pan to prevent drying out.
Can I use frozen cod?
Yes, but thawing is recommended for the best texture. If baking from frozen, increase the cooking time slightly and drain excess liquid during baking.
Why is my cod mushy?
Improper thawing or overcrowding in the baking dish can lead to excess moisture, affecting the texture.
Can I use a different type of fish?
Halibut, haddock, or tilapia make great substitutes for cod while maintaining a similar texture.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Replace the butter with olive oil or a plant-based alternative for a dairy-free version.
What to Serve With This Recipe
Lemon butter baked cod pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Classic options include a crisp green salad, roasted asparagus, or steamed green beans. Grain and carb pairings like fluffy white rice, quinoa, or garlic mashed potatoes help soak up the buttery lemon sauce. For an extra layer of richness, consider sauce pairings such as a light garlic aioli or a creamy lemon-dill sauce for added depth.
With its delicate balance of buttery richness and zesty brightness, lemon butter baked cod is a dish that is both simple and sophisticated. By following key steps—proper drying, even seasoning, and mindful baking—this recipe ensures a perfectly cooked fillet every time. Whether served with classic sides or creative pairings, this dish is a foolproof way to enjoy a flavorful seafood meal that is light, refreshing, and satisfying.
Ingredients
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1 medium lemon, juiced and zested (see notes)
8 cod fillets (4 ounces each), ideally thawed
3/4 teaspoon sea salt
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley
Instructions
Preheating the Oven
Begin by setting your oven to 400°F (204°C) to ensure it reaches the ideal temperature before baking. Using thawed cod fillets is recommended for the best texture, but if necessary, frozen fillets can be used, though they may require a slightly longer cooking time.
Preparing the Cod Fillets
Pat each fillet dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving a flaky, tender texture. Arrange the fillets in a single layer in a 9×13-inch baking dish, ensuring they are evenly spaced for uniform cooking.
Making the Lemon Butter Mixture
In a small saucepan over low heat or a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter until completely liquefied. Remove from heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice and zest, whisking until well combined. This citrus-infused butter will add brightness and depth of flavor to the cod.
Seasoning and Coating the Fillets
Generously brush the melted lemon butter over the fillets, ensuring an even coating. Sprinkle each piece with garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper. Flip the fillets and repeat the process, ensuring both sides are fully coated with the butter mixture and seasonings. This double-layered approach enhances the overall flavor and ensures each bite is perfectly seasoned.
Baking the Cod
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of the fillets. The cod is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 135-140°F (57-60°C) and easily flakes with a fork. The flesh should appear opaque and tender.
Garnishing and Serving
Once removed from the oven, immediately sprinkle the fillets with freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color and an extra layer of freshness. Serve the cod hot, paired with your favorite side dishes, to enjoy its delicate, buttery flavor at its peak.
Lemon Butter Baked Cod Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 medium lemon juiced and zested (see notes)
- 8 cod fillets 4 ounces each, ideally thawed
- 3/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley
Instructions
Preheating the Oven
- Begin by setting your oven to 400°F (204°C) to ensure it reaches the ideal temperature before baking. Using thawed cod fillets is recommended for the best texture, but if necessary, frozen fillets can be used, though they may require a slightly longer cooking time.
Preparing the Cod Fillets
- Pat each fillet dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving a flaky, tender texture. Arrange the fillets in a single layer in a 9×13-inch baking dish, ensuring they are evenly spaced for uniform cooking.
Making the Lemon Butter Mixture
- In a small saucepan over low heat or a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter until completely liquefied. Remove from heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice and zest, whisking until well combined. This citrus-infused butter will add brightness and depth of flavor to the cod.
Seasoning and Coating the Fillets
- Generously brush the melted lemon butter over the fillets, ensuring an even coating. Sprinkle each piece with garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper. Flip the fillets and repeat the process, ensuring both sides are fully coated with the butter mixture and seasonings. This double-layered approach enhances the overall flavor and ensures each bite is perfectly seasoned.
Baking the Cod
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of the fillets. The cod is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 135-140°F (57-60°C) and easily flakes with a fork. The flesh should appear opaque and tender.
Garnishing and Serving
- Once removed from the oven, immediately sprinkle the fillets with freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color and an extra layer of freshness. Serve the cod hot, paired with your favorite side dishes, to enjoy its delicate, buttery flavor at its peak.
