Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this lemon butter baked cod! It’s such a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or even a special occasion. Seriously, you can whip it up in just about 25 minutes, and the combination of bright lemon with rich butter creates a melt-in-your-mouth experience that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, it’s healthy! You’ll love how effortlessly it comes together, making it a go-to recipe in my kitchen. Trust me, once you try it, this lemon butter baked cod will become a regular in your meal rotation!
Ingredients for Lemon Butter Baked Cod
Let’s gather everything we need for this mouthwatering lemon butter baked cod! It’s super simple and you probably have most of these ingredients in your kitchen already. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 cod fillets (fresh or thawed)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (because butter makes everything better!)
- 2 lemons (juiced and zested for that zingy flavor)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced for an aromatic touch)
- Salt to taste (don’t skimp on flavor!)
- Pepper to taste (a little kick never hurt anyone)
- Fresh parsley (for a beautiful garnish)
Trust me, using fresh lemons really brings out the best taste in this dish! Now that we have our ingredients, let’s get cooking!
How to Prepare Lemon Butter Baked Cod
Alright, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of making this lemon butter baked cod! I promise you, it’s as easy as pie. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious dinner on the table in no time!
Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is super important because starting with a hot oven helps the cod cook evenly and gives it that lovely, flaky texture. So don’t skip this step—trust me, your fish will thank you!
Prepare the Lemon Butter Mixture
Now, grab a small saucepan and melt the 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over low heat. Once it’s melted, add the freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, and minced garlic. Oh, the aroma is just heavenly! Stir it all together until it’s well combined, and let that buttery goodness infuse all those bright flavors.
Season the Cod Fillets
Time to season those cod fillets! Place them in a baking dish and sprinkle a good amount of salt and pepper over each fillet. Don’t be shy with the seasoning—it really brings out the flavor of the fish! If you want a little extra zing, you can even add a bit more lemon zest at this stage.
Bake the Cod
Pour the luscious lemon butter mixture over the seasoned cod fillets, making sure they’re all nicely coated. Now, pop the baking dish in the preheated oven and let it bake for about 12 to 15 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the fish flakes easily with a fork. It’s so satisfying to see that perfect texture!
Garnish and Serve
Once your cod is out of the oven, it’s time to plate it up! Garnish with some fresh parsley for that pop of color and a touch of freshness. I love serving this dish with steamed vegetables or a fluffy bed of rice to soak up all that delicious lemon butter sauce. Enjoy every bite—you’ve earned it!
Nutritional Information
Curious about the nutritional benefits of this lemon butter baked cod? Here’s the estimated breakdown for each serving, which includes one cod fillet. Keep in mind that these values can vary a bit based on the specific ingredients you use:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 200mg
This dish is not only delicious but also packed with protein, making it a fantastic choice for a healthy dinner. Enjoy the flavors without the guilt!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Let me tell you, there are so many reasons to absolutely adore this lemon butter baked cod! It’s not just about the delicious taste; it’s about how easy and quick it is to whip up. Here’s why this recipe is a keeper:
- Quick preparation time—ready in just 25 minutes!
- Healthy ingredients that make it a guilt-free meal.
- Rich, buttery flavor balanced perfectly with zesty lemon.
- Simple steps that even beginner cooks can follow.
- Versatile—pair it with veggies, rice, or even a fresh salad!
- Perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
- Fresh ingredients that brighten up your plate and your palate.
Honestly, once you try it, I bet you’ll be hooked! This recipe just hits all the right notes!
Tips for Success with Lemon Butter Baked Cod
Alright, let’s talk about some pro tips to make sure your lemon butter baked cod turns out absolutely perfect every time! These little tricks can really elevate your dish and make it that much more delicious.
- Choose Fresh Cod: Fresh fish makes all the difference! Look for cod that has a mild scent and firm flesh. If you can, get it from a trusted fishmonger for the best quality.
- Adjust Cooking Time: Keep in mind that the thickness of your cod fillets will affect cooking time. Thicker fillets may need a couple more minutes in the oven, while thinner ones will cook faster. Just keep an eye on them!
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemons and garlic will give you the brightest flavors. Don’t skimp on the zest; it adds that wonderful citrus aroma that’s irresistible!
- Let It Rest: After baking, let your cod rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps your fish moist and tender.
- Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to play around with the seasonings! A pinch of paprika, some crushed red pepper flakes, or even fresh herbs like dill or thyme can add a delightful twist.
- Pair It Well: Think about what you’re serving alongside your cod. Steamed asparagus, roasted potatoes, or a light salad with vinaigrette complement the flavors beautifully.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re well on your way to creating an unforgettable lemon butter baked cod dish that’ll impress family and friends alike. Now, go on and get cooking—you’ve got this!
Variations of Lemon Butter Baked Cod
If you’re like me and love to play around in the kitchen, you’ll appreciate these fun variations of lemon butter baked cod! It’s such a versatile dish, and with a few tweaks, you can create a whole new flavor profile each time. Here are some exciting ideas to get your creative juices flowing:
- Herb-Infused Delight: Add a mix of fresh herbs like dill, thyme, or rosemary to the lemon butter mixture. The herbs will not only enhance the flavor but also bring a delightful aroma to your dish!
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a little heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper into the butter sauce. It’ll give your cod a delicious spicy edge that’s sure to impress!
- Citrus Twist: Swap out one of the lemons for an orange or a grapefruit to add a unique sweetness to the dish. The combination of citrus flavors will brighten up your meal in an unexpected way!
- Veggie Boost: For a complete meal, add some thinly sliced vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus in the baking dish alongside the cod. They’ll roast beautifully in the lemon butter sauce!
- Asian-Inspired: Mix in some soy sauce and ginger with the butter for an Asian twist. Serve it over a bed of jasmine rice and garnish with sesame seeds for a delightful experience!
- Nutty Crunch: Top the cod with a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs mixed with chopped nuts like almonds or pecans before baking. This adds a lovely crunch and nutty flavor that complements the fish beautifully.
These variations are just the beginning! I encourage you to experiment and make this lemon butter baked cod your own. Each twist brings something new and delicious to the table, making it a dish you’ll never tire of. Happy cooking!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve whipped up this delightful lemon butter baked cod, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it to create a truly memorable meal! I always believe in pairing flavors that compliment each other, and this dish is no exception. Here are some of my favorite serving suggestions:
- Steamed Vegetables: A medley of steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus adds a lovely crunch and vibrant color to your plate. Plus, they soak up that delicious lemon butter sauce!
- Fluffy Rice: Serve your cod over a bed of fluffy white rice or brown rice. It’s perfect for catching all that buttery goodness, and it makes the meal feel extra hearty.
- Quinoa Salad: For a healthy twist, try a quinoa salad with diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a light lemon vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad pairs beautifully with the rich cod.
- Garlic Bread: If you’re in the mood for something a bit indulgent, crispy garlic bread is fantastic for mopping up extra sauce! Trust me, you won’t want to leave any behind.
- Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light lemon dressing adds a refreshing element to your meal. It’s light and balances the richness of the fish perfectly.
- Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs make for a satisfying side. The earthy flavors contrast nicely with the bright lemony cod.
Mix and match these options to create a feast that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing! The key is to find sides that enhance the flavors of the lemon butter baked cod while providing a variety of textures. Enjoy your meal, and don’t forget to savor every bite!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got some delicious lemon butter baked cod leftovers? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered on how to store and reheat them so they still taste amazing! First off, let’s talk storage. Once your cod has cooled down to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container. It’s best to keep it in the fridge, where it can stay fresh for up to 3 days. Just make sure to seal it well to lock in that yummy flavor!
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, the best way to reheat lemon butter baked cod is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the cod on a baking sheet. Cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Heat for about 10-12 minutes, or until it’s warmed through. This method keeps the fish moist and allows you to enjoy that buttery goodness again!
If you’re in a hurry, you can always use the microwave, but be careful! Heat it in short bursts of about 30 seconds, checking in between to make sure it doesn’t overcook. You want it just warm enough to enjoy, but not so hot that it gets tough. Whatever method you choose, I hope you savor every flavorful bite of that lemon butter baked cod!
For more delicious recipes, check out this lemon parmesan cod recipe or creamy garlic butter chicken!
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Lemon Butter Baked Cod: A Comforting 25-Minute Delight
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A simple and flavorful recipe for lemon butter baked cod.
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 lemons (juiced and zested)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
- Add lemon juice, lemon zest, and minced garlic to the melted butter.
- Place cod fillets in a baking dish and season with salt and pepper.
- Pour the lemon butter mixture over the cod.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the cod fillets.
- Serve with steamed vegetables or rice.
- Use fresh lemons for the best flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cod fillet
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: lemon butter baked cod, baked cod recipe, fish recipe, healthy dinner