Lemon Butter Baked Cod
Lemon Butter Baked Cod is a light, flaky, and flavorful seafood dish that combines tender cod fillets with a rich, citrusy butter sauce. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a healthy weeknight meal while offering restaurant-quality flavors.
Ingredients
For the Cod:
- 4 cod fillets about 6 ounces each
- 1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika optional, for smoky depth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Lemon Butter Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice about 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup balances acidity
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional, for heat
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven – Set oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
Prepare the Cod – Pat the fillets dry, rub with olive oil, and season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Make the Lemon Butter Sauce – Whisk together melted butter, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, honey, Dijon mustard, and red pepper flakes.
- Assemble the Dish – Place cod fillets in the baking dish and pour the lemon butter sauce over them.
Bake the Cod – Bake for 12–15 minutes or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
- Garnish and Serve – Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Notes
Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 8–10 minutes or on low heat in a skillet.
Variations: Add cherry tomatoes, capers, or Parmesan for different flavors.
Pairings: Serve with quinoa, roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.