Ingredients
4 to 6 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
3 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, finely minced
1 lemon, zested and juiced
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or thyme
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Lemon slices, for baking and serving
Preparing the Fish
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line a tray with parchment paper.
Rinse the cod fillets under cold water and pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels. Dry fish sears and bakes better, helping you achieve that tender, buttery finish without becoming soggy.
Place the fillets in the baking dish in a single layer. Sprinkle a little salt, black pepper, and paprika over both sides. The gentle heat from paprika not only adds flavor but also gives a subtle golden color once baked.
Making the Lemon Butter Sauce
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Whisk until everything is well blended. The aroma of lemon and garlic mixed with warm butter is enough to make your kitchen smell like a fine seafood restaurant.
Pour this mixture evenly over the fish fillets, making sure each piece is coated well. Lay a few lemon slices on top and around the cod — these will release extra flavor as they bake, infusing the fish with a delicate citrus essence.
Baking the Cod
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 12 to 15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. Cod cooks quickly, and the key is to bake just until the fish turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
For a slightly caramelized finish, switch your oven to broil mode for the last 2 minutes. The butter and lemon mixture will bubble gently, creating a glossy golden glaze on top of the fish.
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a minute or two. Spoon some of the melted lemon butter sauce from the bottom of the pan over each fillet for extra richness.
Serving the Dish
Serve your Baked Lemon Butter Cod hot, garnished with fresh parsley and an extra squeeze of lemon juice. The result is a clean, fresh flavor that doesn’t need heavy seasoning — just the perfect balance of citrus, butter, and ocean freshness.
This dish pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a light rice pilaf. For a lighter meal, serve it with a crisp green salad or a side of garlic sautéed spinach.
Tips for Perfect Baked Cod
• Always pat your fish dry before seasoning — it helps the butter sauce adhere better and prevents excess moisture.
• Don’t overbake — cod becomes dry quickly if left in the oven too long.
• Use fresh lemons instead of bottled juice for the best flavor.
• Add a touch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper if you like a hint of spice.
• You can also prepare this recipe with halibut, tilapia, or haddock — the same technique works beautifully.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe captures the essence of simple cooking done right. Cod is a mild, tender fish that takes on flavor beautifully, and when combined with butter, garlic, and lemon, it transforms into something extraordinary.
The butter adds richness, the lemon brightens every bite, and the garlic ties it all together with a savory note that lingers just long enough. The olive oil prevents the butter from burning in the oven, while the herbs and paprika bring a subtle depth that keeps the dish from feeling too plain.
It’s healthy, light, and packed with protein — yet still indulgent enough to satisfy your cravings for comfort food.
Home-Cook Review
“I’ve made this baked lemon butter cod so many times, and it’s always perfect! The sauce is divine — I usually double it because we love spooning it over rice or veggies. It’s quick, easy, and tastes like something straight from a restaurant kitchen. My family never leaves a single piece behind!”
Making It Your Own
What makes this dish even more appealing is how easily you can adapt it. You can add capers for a briny touch, or a sprinkle of Parmesan for a more savory finish. If you prefer a bit of crunch, top the fish with breadcrumbs mixed with olive oil and herbs before baking.
You can also experiment with different citrus fruits — try orange or lime instead of lemon for a twist that adds a unique layer of flavor. The butter base works with any citrus, giving you endless variations.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through. Avoid microwaving — it can dry out the delicate fish.
You can also flake the cold cod into a salad or mix it into pasta with a drizzle of olive oil and fresh herbs for a refreshing next-day meal.
Final Touch
Baked Lemon Butter Cod isn’t just a meal — it’s a reminder of how good simple cooking can be. With minimal ingredients and effort, you create something fresh, flavorful, and comforting. Each bite brings a burst of lemony brightness and buttery smoothness that makes this recipe truly special.
Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a quiet evening alone, this dish guarantees satisfaction every time. Elegant, healthy, and full of flavor — it’s the kind of recipe that becomes a favorite the first time you make it.