Lemon Butter Baked Cod

If you’re searching for a quick, healthy, and flavorful dinner, this Lemon Butter Baked Cod is the perfect choice! Tender cod fillets are baked in a rich lemon butter sauce, creating a light and refreshing dish that’s ideal for any night of the week.

This recipe is not only easy to make but also packed with nutrients, making it a great choice for fast and healthy dinners or liver-friendly recipes. Pair it with your favorite soul food sides, like roasted vegetables or mashed cauliflower, for a satisfying and balanced meal.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Quick & Easy – Ready in just 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
✔ Healthy & Low-Carb – A keto-friendly recipe that’s light yet satisfying.
✔ Rich & Flavorful – The lemon butter sauce adds a burst of freshness.
✔ Versatile Side Pairings – Goes well with rice, veggies, or even pasta.
✔ Family-Friendly – A fun dinner idea the whole family will love.

Ingredients for Lemon Butter Baked Cod

• 4 cod fillets (about 1 pound or 450g)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional Side Ideas:

• Steamed or roasted vegetables (asparagus, broccoli, or carrots)
• Mashed potatoes or cauliflower
• Wild rice or quinoa

Kitchen Equipment Needed

✔ Baking Dish – For baking the cod fillets.
✔ Mixing Bowl – To prepare the lemon butter sauce.
✔ Basting Brush – For coating the fish with the sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Lemon Butter Baked Cod

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or a thin layer of butter.

Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Butter Sauce

1. In a small mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix well.

Step 3: Season the Cod Fillets

1. Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels.
2. Place the fillets in the prepared baking dish in a single layer.

Step 4: Add the Sauce

1. Brush or spoon the lemon butter sauce evenly over the cod fillets, ensuring each piece is coated.
2. Pour any remaining sauce into the dish to flavor the fish as it bakes.

Step 5: Bake the Cod

1. Bake the cod in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
2. The internal temperature of the cod should reach 145°F (63°C) when fully cooked.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the cod from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
2. Serve warm with your favorite sides, like steamed vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes.

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Tips for the Best Lemon Butter Baked Cod

✔ Use Fresh Cod – Fresh fillets provide the best flavor and texture, but frozen cod works if properly thawed.
✔ Don’t Overbake – Cod cooks quickly, so check for doneness to avoid dry fish.
✔ Customize the Flavor – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or extra lemon zest for brightness.
✔ Pat Dry for Crispy Edges – Drying the fillets helps them bake evenly and enhances the texture.
✔ Serve Immediately – This dish is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

Make It Spicy – Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a kick.
Swap the Protein – Use halibut, tilapia, or salmon instead of cod.
Try a Breaded Version – Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs over the cod before baking for a crispy topping.
Use Herbs – Replace parsley with dill, thyme, or cilantro for a different flavor.
Make It Dairy-Free – Substitute butter with olive oil or vegan butter.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Storing Leftovers

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, being careful not to overcook the fish.

Freezing Instructions

• Freeze cooked cod in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use frozen cod fillets?

Yes! Thaw the fillets completely and pat them dry before baking for the best results.

What can I serve with Lemon Butter Baked Cod?

This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.

How do I prevent the fish from sticking to the baking dish?

Grease the dish lightly with butter or cooking spray, or line it with parchment paper.

Can I use lime instead of lemon?

Yes, lime juice and zest work as a great substitute for a slightly different flavor.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Absolutely! The low-carb ingredients make this dish perfect for a keto-friendly dinner.

Conclusion

This Lemon Butter Baked Cod is a light, healthy, and flavorful dinner recipe that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With its tender fish, rich lemon butter sauce, and fresh parsley garnish, it’s a dish that’s as satisfying as it is beautiful.

Try this fast and healthy dinner recipe today, and enjoy a meal that’s as good for your body as it is for your taste buds. Pair it with your favorite sides, and don’t forget to share this dish with friends and family—they’ll love it too!

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