Lemon Garlic Butter Cod

You know those nights when you need something delicious, healthy, and on the table fast? That’s exactly why my lemon garlic butter cod recipe has become my weeknight hero. It’s one of those magical dishes that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen, but really comes together in about 25 minutes flat. The first time I made this for my family, my husband actually peeked into the oven to check if I’d secretly ordered takeout – that’s how restaurant-quality it tastes!

What makes this recipe so special is how the bright lemon and rich butter balance each other perfectly, while the garlic adds just enough punch without overwhelming the delicate cod. It reminds me of those simple Mediterranean meals we’d enjoy on vacation – fresh ingredients letting the natural flavors shine. Now it’s our go-to when we want something light yet satisfying, and I love that even my picky eater cleans her plate every time.

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Garlic Butter Cod Recipe

Let me count the ways this recipe will become your new favorite:

• Crazy quick: From fridge to table in under 30 minutes – perfect for those “what’s for dinner?!” panic moments
• Healthy without trying: Packed with lean protein and heart-healthy fats that make you feel good about seconds
• Flavor bombs: That lemon-garlic-butter trifecta creates magic – tangy, rich, and aromatic all at once
• Pantry-friendly: Uses ingredients you probably already have (I’ve totally made this with frozen cod in a pinch!)
• Foolproof: Even my brother who burns toast nailed this on his first try

Trust me, once you taste how the buttery sauce soaks into the flaky cod, you’ll be hooked.

Lemon Garlic Butter Cod Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this simple yet spectacular dish (and I promise it’s nothing fancy – just good, fresh stuff!):

• 4 cod fillets (6 oz each) – look for thick, fresh pieces with that lovely pearly sheen
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted – the good stuff makes all the difference here
• 3 garlic cloves, minced – fresh only, none of that jarred nonsense!
• 1 lemon – we’ll use both the juice and zest for maximum citrus punch
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped – it’s worth the extra trip to the herb aisle
• 1/2 tsp salt – I use kosher for even seasoning
• 1/4 tsp black pepper – freshly cracked if you’ve got it
• 1 tbsp olive oil – just enough for that perfect sear

See? Told you it wasn’t complicated. Now let’s make some magic!

How to Make Lemon Garlic Butter Cod

Okay, let’s dive into making this gorgeous dish – I promise it’s easier than you think! Just follow these simple steps and you’ll have restaurant-quality cod that’ll impress everyone at your table.

Prep the Cod Fillets

First things first – grab some paper towels and pat those cod fillets dry like you mean it. This is crucial, friends! If the fish is wet, it won’t get that beautiful golden crust. Once they’re nice and dry, sprinkle both sides with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy – this is your flavor foundation!

Make the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

While your oven preheats to 400°F (yes, do this now!), melt your butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Add the minced garlic, lemon juice, and zest – then whisk it all together until it smells like heaven. Pro tip: zest the lemon before juicing it – way easier! This sauce is the star of the show, so give it a quick taste and adjust the lemon if needed.

Sear and Bake the Cod

Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. When it shimmers, add the cod fillets. Listen for that satisfying sizzle! Cook for 2 minutes per side – just until golden. Then pour that luscious lemon butter sauce over top and immediately transfer the whole skillet to the oven. Bake for 8-10 minutes – the cod should flake easily with a fork when done. Sprinkle with fresh parsley, and boom – dinner is served!

Tips for Perfect Lemon Garlic Butter Cod

Want to nail this recipe every single time? Here are my tried-and-true tips: First, always use fresh cod if you can – it makes a world of difference in texture and flavor. If your fillets are thicker than usual, add a couple extra minutes to the bake time, but don’t overdo it – overcooked cod is a tragedy we want to avoid! And here’s a little secret: use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness. You’re aiming for 145°F at the thickest part. Trust me, it’s foolproof!

Serving Suggestions for Lemon Garlic Butter Cod

This gorgeous cod deserves equally delicious sides! My go-to is simple steamed asparagus or green beans – they soak up that lemony butter sauce beautifully. For heartier meals, I love it with garlic herb rice or a light quinoa salad. And don’t forget crusty bread for mopping up every last drop of that incredible sauce!

Lemon Garlic Butter Cod Variations

Want to mix things up? This recipe is super flexible! Try tossing in a tablespoon of briny capers with the butter sauce for an extra punch of flavor. If you’re feeling fancy, swap the parsley for fresh dill – it pairs beautifully with fish. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter mixture. The possibilities are endless!

Storing and Reheating Lemon Garlic Butter Cod

Got leftovers? No problem! Store your cod in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, go low and slow – pop it in the oven at 275°F until just warmed through. Microwaving can dry it out, so avoid it if you can. Trust me, gentle reheating keeps that flaky texture perfect!

Lemon Garlic Butter Cod Nutritional Information

Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving (based on my exact ingredients): about 220 calories, 25g protein, 12g fat, and just 3g carbs. Keep in mind these are estimates – your exact numbers might vary slightly depending on your cod’s size and butter brand. But hey, when something tastes this good and is this good for you, that’s what I call a win-win!

Common Questions About Lemon Garlic Butter Cod

Let me tackle the questions I get asked most about this recipe – because trust me, I’ve heard them all from my friends and family!

Can I use frozen cod? Absolutely! Just thaw it completely in the fridge overnight first. Pat it extra dry – frozen fish tends to release more moisture. I’ve done this in a pinch and it still turns out delicious.

How do I prevent dry cod? Two words: don’t overcook! Set a timer for the minimum bake time and check early. The fish continues cooking a bit after removal from the oven.

Best side dishes? Beyond veggies and rice, try roasted potatoes or a bright arugula salad. The sauce pairs beautifully with almost anything!

Can I make it ahead? Prep the sauce and season the fish in advance, but cook just before serving for best texture.

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