Description
This Baked Cod recipe is a quick and flavorful way to prepare tender, flaky white fish fillets. Coated in a zesty lemon butter sauce with garlic and herbs, these cod fillets bake to perfection in just 20 minutes, making it an ideal healthy weeknight dinner option.
Ingredients
Scale
Fish
- 8 4-oz cod fillets (preferably thawed)
Sauce & Seasoning
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 medium lemon (juiced and zested)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 3/4 tsp sea salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (204°C). Prepare your cod fillets by either thawing them in cold water or baking from frozen, though thawed fish allows for easier application of the butter.
- Prepare the fish: Pat the cod fillets dry thoroughly using paper towels. Arrange them in a single layer inside a 9×13 inch baking dish to ensure even cooking.
- Melt the butter and mix: Melt the unsalted butter in a microwave-safe bowl or on the stovetop. Remove from heat and stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice along with the lemon zest to infuse the butter with citrus flavor.
- Brush and season: Brush the lemon butter evenly over one side of the cod fillets. Sprinkle with garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper. Flip the fillets carefully and repeat the brushing and seasoning on the other side.
- Bake the cod: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, adjusting based on fillet thickness. The cod is done when it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. For optimal moistness, aim for an internal temperature between 135°F and 140°F.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the baked cod from the oven and sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley on top. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Thawing the cod before baking helps the butter to adhere better and prevents it from solidifying on the frozen fish.
- Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature for perfectly cooked fish.
- Fresh lemon juice and zest provide brightness; avoid bottled lemon juice for best flavor.
- This recipe works well with other firm white fish such as haddock or halibut.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt and pepper.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: baked cod, lemon butter cod, easy fish recipe, healthy baked fish, quick seafood dinner, cod fillets, lemon garlic cod
