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Lemon Butter Baked Cod Recipe

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4 from 12 reviews

  • Author: Lea
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

This Lemon Butter Baked Cod recipe features tender cod fillets coated in a flavorful mixture of melted butter, fresh lemon juice, garlic, capers, and a hint of spice from red pepper flakes and paprika. Baked to perfection in just 25 minutes, this dish serves four and offers a delicious, healthy seafood option with a zesty, buttery sauce.

Ingredients

For the Cod and Sauce

  • Nonstick spray (for the pan)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh garlic (minced)
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 2 tablespoons capers (drained)
  • 4 cod fillets (6 ounces each, 1 inch thick, fresh or frozen)
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly spray a baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent the cod from sticking during baking.
  2. Prepare the Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, sea salt, and red pepper flakes. Once combined, stir in the drained capers evenly.
  3. Coat the Cod: Place the cod fillets in the prepared baking dish. Pour the butter mixture evenly over the fillets. Use a brush to coat each fillet thoroughly with the thick sauce. Sprinkle the tops with paprika for added color and flavor.
  4. Bake Until Done: Bake the cod uncovered in the preheated oven. For fresh 1-inch thick fillets, bake about 15 minutes. For frozen fillets, bake approximately 25 minutes. The fish is done when it is opaque, flakes easily with a fork, and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Remove from oven and serve immediately for best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Adjust baking time if fillets are thinner or thicker than 1 inch.
  • If using frozen cod, there is no need to thaw before baking; just extend the baking time.
  • Sea salt can be substituted with kosher salt if preferred.
  • The red pepper flakes add a subtle heat; reduce or omit if you prefer a milder dish.
  • For a dairy-free option, substitute butter with olive oil.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

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