Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Baked Lemon Butter Cod Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4 from 1 review

  • Author: Lea
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

This Baked Cod Recipe is a quick and flavorful seafood dish that takes just 20 minutes to prepare and cook. Cod fillets are coated with a zesty lemon butter sauce seasoned with garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper, then baked to tender, flaky perfection. Garnished with fresh parsley, it’s a light, healthy option perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

Fish

  • 8 fillets of cod, 4 ounces each (preferably thawed)

Sauce

  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 medium lemon, juiced and zested

Seasoning

  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 3/4 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). You can use cod fillets straight from the freezer or thaw them first in cold water for easier handling and butter application.
  2. Prepare Cod Fillets: Pat the cod fillets dry thoroughly using paper towels to remove excess moisture. Arrange the fillets in a single layer inside a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  3. Make Lemon Butter Sauce: Melt the butter in a microwave or a small saucepan on the stove. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice and lemon zest to create a bright, flavorful sauce.
  4. Season the Cod: Using a brush, coat each cod fillet evenly with the lemon butter sauce. Sprinkle garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper over the tops, then carefully flip each fillet and repeat the butter brushing and seasoning on the other side.
  5. Bake the Cod: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The cod is done when it turns opaque and flakes easily when tested with a fork. Aim for an internal temperature between 135°F and 140°F for perfectly moist and tender fish.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the cod fillets. Serve immediately for a delicious, healthy meal.

Notes

  • Thawing the cod fillets beforehand makes it easier to brush the lemon butter sauce evenly without solidifying the butter.
  • Adjust baking time based on fillet thickness to avoid overcooking and drying out the fish.
  • Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the most vibrant flavor.
  • Check the fish with a fork to ensure it flakes easily—this is the best indicator of doneness.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://recipesbylea.com/baked-lemon-butter-cod-recipe/