Lemon Butter Baked Cod
This Lemon Butter Baked Cod is the perfect light and healthy dinner recipe! Tender cod fillets are baked in a rich lemon butter sauce, delivering a burst of fresh and zesty flavor. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or as part of a liver-friendly meal. Pair it with roasted vegetables, mashed cauliflower, or your favorite soul food sides for a satisfying and balanced dish.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 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)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Butter Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
Step 3: Season the Cod
- Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and place them in the baking dish in a single layer.
Step 4: Add the Sauce
- Brush or spoon the prepared lemon butter sauce evenly over the cod fillets. Pour any extra sauce around the fish.
Step 5: Bake the Cod
- Bake the cod for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving. Pair with sides like steamed vegetables, mashed cauliflower, or rice for a complete meal.
Notes
- For frozen cod fillets, thaw completely and pat dry before baking.
- Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or replace parsley with dill for a flavor twist.
Find it online: https://recipesize.com/lemon-butter-baked-cod/