Description
This Garlic Butter Baked Cod recipe offers a deliciously simple and flavorful way to prepare cod fillets. Coated in a savory garlic butter mixture with hints of paprika and fresh parsley, then baked to perfection, this dish is a healthy, quick, and elegant meal option perfect for any night of the week.
Ingredients
Garlic Butter Mixture
- 4 Tbsp butter, room temperature
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 Tbsp finely chopped parsley
Main Ingredient
- 1 lb cod (4 fillets, approximately 4 oz each)
For Serving
- 1 fresh lemon (halved; half sliced, half cut into wedges)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400ºF to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the cod evenly and to perfection.
- Prepare the garlic butter mixture: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and chopped parsley. Stir the ingredients thoroughly until you form a smooth, well-blended paste.
- Coat the cod fillets: Place the cod fillets in a baking dish. Spoon the garlic butter mixture evenly over the fish, spreading it gently to coat all the surfaces of the cod.
- Add lemon slices: Arrange the lemon slices made from half of the lemon on top of the coated cod fillets to infuse a fresh citrus aroma during baking.
- Bake the cod: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. The exact time varies depending on the fillet thickness and baking dish material. The cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145ºF.
- Serve with fresh lemon wedges: Remove the cod from the oven and spoon any flavorful pan juices over the fillets. Serve immediately with the remaining lemon wedges for squeezing fresh juice over the fish to enhance taste.
Notes
- Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easy mixing and even coating.
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor; pre-minced garlic may alter the taste.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to avoid under or overcooking.
- For a crispier top, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end of baking if desired.
- Pair the dish with steamed vegetables or rice for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American