Description
This Garlic Butter Baked Cod recipe features tender, flaky cod fillets baked in a rich and flavorful garlic butter sauce, enhanced with fresh lemon juice and parsley. Perfect for a quick and elegant dinner, this dish comes together in just 25 minutes and serves four.
Ingredients
Scale
Seafood
- 4 fresh cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
Garlic Butter Sauce
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Garlic Butter: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice, then remove the saucepan from heat to keep the flavors fresh.
- Arrange Cod Fillets: Place the cod fillets evenly in the prepared baking dish. Pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over the fillets to coat them thoroughly with flavor.
- Season and Bake: Season the cod with salt and pepper according to your taste. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily when tested with a fork.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the baked cod from the oven, garnish with the chopped fresh parsley, and serve immediately for a deliciously buttery and garlicky seafood meal.
Notes
- Choose fresh cod fillets that are firm and have a mild scent for the best flavor.
- Do not overbake the cod to keep it moist and tender; check for doneness by testing if it flakes easily with a fork.
- For a lower-fat option, use a smaller amount of butter or substitute with olive oil.
- Fresh lemon juice is preferred for brightness, but bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch.
- This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or a light salad.
