Lemon Butter Baked Cod is not just a dish; it’s an experience that tantalizes your taste buds with every bite. Imagine biting into a flaky piece of cod, perfectly seasoned with lemon and buttery goodness that dances on your palate like it just won a dance-off. As the aroma fills your kitchen, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to a seaside bistro without ever leaving your home.
This dish brings back memories of family gatherings where laughter mingled with the scent of freshly baked fish wafting through the air. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself after a long day, Lemon Butter Baked Cod promises to impress and satisfy. Get ready for an explosion of flavors that will have you hooked!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This recipe offers ease of preparation with minimal ingredients and steps
- The bright lemon flavor pairs beautifully with the buttery cod, creating a dish that’s visually stunning
- It’s versatile enough for any occasion from casual weeknight dinners to elegant gatherings
The first time I made this dish, my friends couldn’t stop raving about it; they even asked if I could cater their next dinner party!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Cod Fillets: Look for firm fillets without any fishy smell; they should be slightly translucent.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice gives the best flavor compared to bottled varieties.
- Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted butter allows better control over the saltiness in the dish.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh minced garlic adds a lovely aromatic depth to the overall flavor profile.
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley enhances both flavor and visual appeal; it adds a fresh touch.
- Paprika: A sprinkle of paprika brings warmth and color; choose smoked paprika for added depth.
- Salt & Pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance all other flavors in your dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) while you prepare your baking dish and ingredients. This ensures even cooking when you’re ready.
Prepare Your Baking Dish: Lightly coat a baking dish with nonstick spray or butter to prevent sticking. Place cod fillets in a single layer for even cooking.
Create Your Flavor Mixture: In a small bowl, combine melted butter, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well-blended.
Pour Over Cod Fillets: Drizzle your buttery mixture generously over the cod fillets. Make sure each piece gets coated in that zesty goodness.
Bake Until Flaky: Bake in preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. Keep an eye out for that golden brown top!
Add Fresh Parsley Before Serving: Once out of the oven, sprinkle chopped parsley over your beautiful cod fillets for an added burst of freshness and color before serving.
Enjoy this delightful Lemon Butter Baked Cod as part of your dinner rotation! It’s simple yet elegant enough to impress anyone who shares your table.
You Must Know
- Lemon Butter Baked Cod is a delightful dish that’s both easy to prepare and packed with flavor
- The bright, zesty lemon paired with rich butter creates an unforgettable taste that will impress anyone at your dinner table
- Don’t forget to season well for the best results!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the cod in lemon juice and butter for at least 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) while you prepare your baking dish with herbs and spices.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the cod for another fish like tilapia or salmon. Experiment with different herbs such as dill or parsley for a unique flavor twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to maintain moisture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Choosing fresh fish is essential for this recipe; it elevates the flavor significantly
- Always taste as you go; adjust seasoning according to your preference for a more personalized dish
- Baking time may vary slightly based on fish thickness, so keep an eye on it!
Cooking this Lemon Butter Baked Cod brings back memories of cozy family dinners, where everyone gathered around the table, savoring every bite and sharing laughter over delicious food.
FAQ
What sides pair well with Lemon Butter Baked Cod?
Roasted vegetables or a light garden salad complement this dish wonderfully, adding freshness.
Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?
Yes, just ensure it’s fully thawed before marinating and baking to achieve the best flavor.
How do I know when my cod is done cooking?
The cod should flake easily with a fork and be opaque throughout when properly cooked.
Lemon Butter Baked Cod
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Lemon Butter Baked Cod is a quick and flavorful dish that features flaky cod fillets baked in a zesty lemon and rich butter sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners!
Ingredients
- Fresh Cod Fillets
- Lemon Juice
- Unsalted Butter
- Garlic Cloves
- Fresh Parsley
- Paprika
- Salt and Pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Lightly coat a baking dish with nonstick spray or butter and arrange cod fillets in a single layer.
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter, lemon juice, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper until well blended.
- Drizzle the mixture generously over the cod fillets.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Sprinkle chopped parsley over the baked cod before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
