If you're looking for a healthy, delicious dinner that feels gourmet but takes minimal effort, this Lemon Butter Baked Cod is exactly what you need. It's a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or elegant dinners at home. The fish turns out perfectly tender, flaky, and infused with the bright flavor of lemon and the richness of melted butter.
This baked cod is not only quick to make — it's ready in under 25 minutes — but it’s also high in protein, low in carbs, and naturally gluten-free. Paired with a crisp salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic rice, this dish is both satisfying and nourishing.
The lemon-butter sauce, with a hint of garlic and herbs, elevates the mild flavor of cod into something restaurant-worthy. Whether you’re cooking for guests or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to impress.
📝 Ingredients (U.S. Standard Measurements)
- 4 cod fillets (about 5–6 oz each)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon fresh)
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Lemon slices, for garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
👨🍳 Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line with parchment paper.
- Make the lemon butter sauce: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Season the cod: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Place them in the prepared baking dish and spoon the lemon butter sauce evenly over each fillet.
- Bake: Bake uncovered for 15–18 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout. (Exact time may vary depending on thickness.)
- Garnish and serve: Top with lemon slices and chopped parsley. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.
🍽 Nutrition Information (Per Serving – serves 4)
- Calories: 235 kcal
- Protein: 29 g
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Sugar: 0 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
Note: Nutrition will vary slightly based on the size and type of fillets.
💡 Tips & Tricks
- Use fresh cod if possible: It delivers better texture and flavor, but frozen cod works well too—just thaw completely and pat dry.
- Add veggies: Roast asparagus, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini in the same pan for a full one-pan meal.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the lemon butter for a mild kick.
- No cod? Try this recipe with haddock, tilapia, or halibut for equally great results.
- Make it dairy-free: Use vegan butter or olive oil instead of regular butter for a lighter version.
🍽 From Me to You: My Extra Touch ✨
I love pairing this dish with garlic herb quinoa or lemon-parsley rice to absorb all that buttery goodness. A simple green salad with a citrus vinaigrette or roasted potatoes with rosemary also make perfect sides.
For a touch of luxury, try finishing the cod with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a spoonful of capers just before serving — it adds a delightful burst of flavor and texture.
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