Delight in the simplicity and flavor of our Lemon Butter Baked Cod, featuring tender cod fillets, zesty lemon, and rich butter. This easy, 25-minute recipe promises a healthy and delicious weeknight meal with minimal prep.
Every recipe has its tale, and the Lemon Butter Baked Cod is no exception. This dish transports me back to breezy summer evenings spent at my grandmother’s coastal home. She believed in the magic of simple ingredients, transforming them into something extraordinary. One evening, inspired by a fresh catch and her garden’s lemons, she whipped up what would become this beloved dish. Her philosophy was that food didn’t need to be complicated to be enjoyed, a lesson that resonates in each bite of this lemony, buttery cod. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a reminder of those simple, perfect evenings by the sea.
Why You’ll Love Lemon Butter Baked Cod
Introducing the Lemon Butter Baked Cod—a dish that turns any dinner into a special occasion without the fuss! Here’s why you’ll want to add this recipe to your regular rotation:
- Quick and Effortless: Ready in just 25 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful and Fresh: The zesty lemon and creamy butter create a sauce that’s both refreshing and indulgent.
- Healthy Choice: Cod is a low-fat protein source, making this dish a heart-healthy option.
- Versatile: Serve it up with a side of greens, over pasta, or alongside a quinoa salad to keep things interesting.
Ingredients Notes
When making Lemon Butter Baked Cod, choosing the right ingredients is key to nailing that perfect flavor and texture:
- Cod Fillets: Opt for fresh or thoroughly thawed fillets to ensure even cooking and optimal flavor absorption.
- Unsalted Butter: Controls the saltiness of your dish, allowing you to adjust seasoning to taste.
- Lemon: Use fresh lemons for juicing and zesting to capture the bright, citrusy essence.
- Garlic Powder: Provides a consistent garlic flavor throughout the dish without the need for mincing.
- Fresh Parsley: Adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal note that complements the lemon beautifully.
WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?
How To Make Lemon Butter Baked Cod
Preparing Lemon Butter Baked Cod is wonderfully straightforward, making it an ideal choice for any home cook. Here’s how to make it step-by-step:
- Preparation: Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees F (204 degrees C), ensuring it’s hot enough to cook the cod evenly. If time allows, thaw your cod fillets beforehand, as this will help the butter mixture adhere better without hardening from the cold.
- Dry the Cod: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. This is crucial as it helps the seasoning stick and prevents the dish from becoming soggy.
- Melt the Butter: In a microwave-safe bowl or on the stove, melt the butter. Once melted, stir in the fresh lemon juice and zest, infusing the butter with citrus flavor.
- Season the Cod: Arrange the cod in a single layer in your baking dish. Brush the lemon butter mixture generously over each fillet, then season with garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper. Flip the fillets and repeat to ensure they are evenly coated and seasoned.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. The exact time might vary depending on the thickness of your fillets. You’re aiming for an internal temperature of 135-140 degrees F, at which point the cod should be opaque and flake easily with a fork.
- Garnish and Serve: Once baked, sprinkle the cod with chopped fresh parsley for an extra touch of freshness and color. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Storage Options
For those times when you have leftovers or want to prepare ahead, Lemon Butter Baked Cod offers flexible storage options:
- Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently to maintain the moisture of the fish.
- Freezer: If you need to keep it longer, you can freeze the baked cod in a well-sealed container for up to one month. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variations and Substitutions
While the classic Lemon Butter Baked Cod is delightful on its own, here are some creative twists and substitutions to keep it exciting:
- Different Citrus: Swap out lemon for lime or orange for a different twist on the citrus element.
- Herbs and Spices: Introduce herbs like dill or tarragon, or spice it up with a dash of cayenne pepper or paprika for some heat.
- Butter Alternatives: For a dairy-free version, use a high-quality olive oil or a vegan butter substitute.
- Fish Varieties: Not a fan of cod? Try this recipe with other firm white fish like halibut or haddock.
Each of these tweaks allows you to tailor the dish to your taste preferences or dietary needs, making it a versatile recipe to have in your culinary repertoire.
Lemon Butter Baked Cod
Ingredients
- Eight 4-ounce cod fillets ideally thawed
- 1/4 cup of unsalted butter
- One medium lemon both juiced and zested (refer to notes)
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 3/4 teaspoon of sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 tablespoon of freshly chopped parsley
Instructions
- Preheating: Initiate the preparation by setting the oven to a temperature of 400 degrees Fahrenheit (approximately 204 degrees Celsius). It is preferable to utilize thawed cod fillets for this recipe; however, if time is constrained, the fillets may be baked from frozen.
- Preparation of Fillets: Utilize paper towels to dry the cod fillets thoroughly. Arrange them in a uniform layer within a baking dish measuring 9×13 inches.
- Butter Mixture Preparation: In a small saucepan or microwave-safe dish, melt the butter. Once melted, remove from heat and incorporate the freshly juiced lemon and zest into the butter, mixing well.
- Application of Seasoning and Butter Mixture: Generously brush the lemon butter mixture onto the arranged cod fillets. Subsequently, season them with garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper. Turn the fillets over and repeat the application of both the lemon butter mixture and the seasoning to ensure even coverage.
- Baking: Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake the fillets for 12 to 15 minutes. The duration may vary depending on the thickness of the fillets. The cod should reach an internal temperature between 135 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit, at which point it will appear opaque and easily flake with a fork.
- Final Garnishing and Serving: Once baking is complete, sprinkle the fillets with freshly chopped parsley to enhance flavor and presentation. Serve immediately to enjoy the dish at its optimal taste and texture.
