When you’re looking for a meal that’s both wholesome and indulgent, Lemon Butter Baked Cod is the perfect dish. Light, flaky, and infused with bright lemon and savory garlic butter, it’s a recipe that feels fancy but is surprisingly simple to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or hosting a small dinner party, this dish checks every box: quick, healthy, affordable, and elegant.
In this blog post, we’ll walk you through every step of creating this mouthwatering baked cod recipe. From choosing the freshest fish to mastering the lemon butter sauce, you’ll find everything you need for a foolproof dinner success.
Why You’ll Love Lemon Butter Baked Cod
There are dozens of reasons to love this dish, but here are just a few that make it a kitchen staple:
- Fast & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes from prep to plate.
- Nutritious: Low in fat and carbs, high in protein and essential nutrients like Omega-3 fatty acids.
- Flavorful: The combination of lemon, garlic, and butter enhances the mild flavor of cod without overpowering it.
- Versatile: Works well with side dishes ranging from roasted vegetables to quinoa or rice.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Even those who aren’t seafood lovers often enjoy this subtly flavored dish.
What is Cod, and Why is it Great for Baking?
Cod is a white, flaky fish with a mild, slightly sweet flavor that absorbs sauces and seasonings beautifully. Its firm texture makes it perfect for baking because it holds its shape without becoming mushy.
When baked, cod develops a delicate flakiness and stays moist, especially when paired with ingredients like butter, olive oil, or citrus. It’s a go-to fish for cooks who want something easy, healthy, and adaptable to different cuisines.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cod:
- 4 cod fillets (about 170g each), skinless and boneless
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Lemon Butter Sauce:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 2 tbsp lemon juice, freshly squeezed
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 0.5 tsp paprika
- Pinch of chili flakes (optional)
For Garnish:
- Lemon slices
- Chopped parsley
Note: Always use fresh ingredients for the best flavor—especially the lemon juice and parsley.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). This temperature is ideal for baking cod because it cooks quickly without drying the fish out.
Step 2: Prepare the Cod Fillets
Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Removing surface moisture ensures that the seasonings and sauce adhere better and helps the fish bake evenly.
Season both sides of the fillets with salt and pepper, then drizzle with olive oil for a touch of richness and moisture.
Step 3: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce
In a small bowl, combine:
- Melted butter
- Minced garlic
- Lemon juice
- Lemon zest
- Paprika
- Parsley
- (Optional) A pinch of chili flakes for a bit of heat
Whisk until smooth. The garlic gives depth, lemon adds brightness, and butter binds everything into a silky sauce.
Step 4: Assemble
Place your seasoned cod fillets in a baking dish. Pour the lemon butter mixture over them, ensuring each fillet is well coated. Place a thin lemon slice on top of each fillet to enhance the citrusy aroma and make the dish look beautiful.
Step 5: Bake
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 12–15 minutes. The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 60°C (140°F).
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Let the fish rest for about 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley and an extra squeeze of fresh lemon juice if desired. Serve warm with your favorite sides.
Pro Tips for Perfect Lemon Butter Baked Cod
- Dry the fish well before seasoning to avoid excess moisture that could steam the cod instead of baking it.
- Don’t overbake. Cod cooks fast, and overcooking will make it dry. Use a food thermometer if needed.
- Use fresh garlic and lemon juice for a more vibrant flavor than pre-minced or bottled versions.
- Add breadcrumbs or parmesan on top for a crispy finish if you’re not going for low-carb.
- Experiment with herbs like thyme or dill for different flavor profiles.
Variations to Try
1. Mediterranean Twist
Add sliced cherry tomatoes, olives, and capers around the cod fillets before baking.
2. Spicy Cajun Style
Swap the paprika with Cajun seasoning and add a little cayenne for a fiery kick.
3. Dairy-Free Version
Use vegan butter or olive oil instead of regular butter.
4. Panko-Crusted Cod
Mix panko breadcrumbs with a bit of lemon zest and olive oil. Sprinkle over the cod before baking for extra crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Lemon Butter Baked Cod is incredibly versatile. Here are some ideas to turn it into a complete meal:
With Grains:
- Steamed jasmine or basmati rice
- Herbed quinoa
- Lemon couscous
With Vegetables:
- Roasted asparagus or green beans
- Sautéed spinach
- Garlic mashed cauliflower (for a low-carb option)
With Breads:
- Warm crusty bread
- Garlic butter dinner rolls
- Pita with hummus
A crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with this dish.
How to Store and Reheat
Storage:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Seafood is best consumed fresh but can be safely enjoyed the next day.
Reheating:
To reheat, place the fish in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in the oven at 150°C (300°F) for 8–10 minutes. Microwaving is not recommended as it may dry the fish out.
Final Thoughts
Lemon Butter Baked Cod is more than just a recipe—it’s a dependable, delicious go-to for those who love healthy, satisfying meals with minimal fuss. Its delicate flavor and rich buttery lemon sauce make it a dish that even picky eaters enjoy. Whether you’re new to cooking fish or a seasoned seafood lover, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Lemon Butter Baked Cod Recipe
Description
Flaky, tender, and infused with zesty lemon and rich butter, this Lemon Butter Baked Cod is a quick and healthy seafood dish perfect for busy weeknights or elegant dinners. Ready in just 30 minutes, this low-carb recipe pairs beautifully with vegetables, rice, or salad for a light yet satisfying meal.
Ingredients
For the Cod:
For the Lemon Butter Sauce:
For Garnish:
Instructions
Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking dish or tray with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil to prevent sticking.
Season the Cod
- Pat cod fillets dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Season both sides with salt and pepper. Place the fillets evenly in the prepared baking dish.
Make the Lemon Butter Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, parsley, paprika, and chili flakes (if using). Stir until well combined.
Pour and Layer
- Spoon the lemon butter mixture generously over the cod fillets. Lay a thin lemon slice on top of each piece for added flavor and presentation.
Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 60°C.
Rest and Garnish
- Let the fish rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to settle. Garnish with additional chopped parsley and serve warm.
Note
Fish Substitutes: You can replace cod with haddock, tilapia, or halibut.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
Make it Dairy-Free: Swap butter with a good-quality olive oil or dairy-free butter alternative.
Pairing Ideas: Great with steamed broccoli, roasted potatoes, quinoa, or a light salad.
