Name: Lemon Butter Baked Cod
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each); 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted; 3 cloves garlic, minced; Juice of 1 lemon; 1 tsp lemon zest; 1 tsp Dijon mustard; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp paprika (optional); 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tbsp fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried); Lemon slices for garnish; Special Equipment:; Baking dish; Basting brush or spoon; Meat thermometer (optional but helpful)

Lemon Butter Baked Cod

This Lemon Butter Baked Cod has quickly become a favorite in our household. The delicate, flaky cod fillets are bathed in a rich, buttery sauce with hints of fresh lemon and herbs. It’s a restaurant-quality meal that comes together in just 30 minutes—perfect for busy moms who need a quick yet satisfying dinner option.

I first made this recipe on a whim, needing something light yet comforting. My husband, who isn’t usually a big fan of fish, took one bite and immediately asked for seconds. My kids love the mild flavor of cod, and the buttery, garlicky sauce makes it irresistible. Now, it’s on our weekly dinner rotation, and I love how easily it pairs with roasted veggies, rice, or a simple side salad.

What I adore most about this dish is its versatility. You can dress it up for a fancy dinner or keep it simple for a low-maintenance weeknight meal. The best part? It requires minimal cleanup, thanks to being baked in one dish! If you’re looking for a foolproof way to cook fish that will please the whole family, this Lemon Butter Baked Cod is your answer.

Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe

Can I use frozen cod?
Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw it and pat it dry with paper towels before baking to prevent excess moisture.

What can I substitute for cod?
Haddock, tilapia, or halibut work well if cod isn’t available. Just keep in mind that thicker fish may require a slightly longer bake time.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely! Swap out the butter for a dairy-free alternative like vegan butter or olive oil for a lighter version.

How do I know when the cod is done?
The fish should be opaque and easily flake with a fork. A good rule of thumb is to bake until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.

Can I add other seasonings?
Yes! A pinch of paprika, cayenne, or Italian seasoning can add a unique twist to the flavor profile.

What You Need to Make Lemon Butter Baked Cod

Ingredients:

4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)

4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

3 cloves garlic, minced

Juice of 1 lemon

1 tsp lemon zest

1 tsp Dijon mustard

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

1/2 tsp paprika (optional)

1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

1 tbsp fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried)

Lemon slices for garnish

Special Equipment:

Baking dish

Basting brush or spoon

Meat thermometer (optional but helpful)

How to Make Lemon Butter Baked Cod

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray.

Prepare the butter sauce: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and paprika (if using).

Arrange the fish: Place the cod fillets in the prepared baking dish and pour the butter sauce over them. Use a spoon or brush to evenly coat each fillet.

Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and thyme, and add lemon slices for extra flavor. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.

Tips for Making the Best Lemon Butter Baked Cod

Pat the cod dry before baking to help it absorb the flavors better and achieve the best texture.

Don’t overbake! Cod cooks quickly, and overcooked fish can become dry. Keep an eye on it.

Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor—bottled lemon juice doesn’t quite do this dish justice.

Pair with complementary sides like garlic mashed potatoes, steamed asparagus, or a crisp green salad.

Make it extra crispy by broiling the fish for the last 2 minutes to get a lightly golden top.

Reader Reviews

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Absolutely delicious! My whole family devoured this, even my picky eaters. So easy to make!” – Sarah M.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Perfect for a busy weeknight! The buttery lemon sauce is divine. Definitely adding this to our regular rotation.” – Jason K.

⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Tasty and simple, but next time I might add a little more garlic for extra flavor.” – Maria R.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “I’m not usually a fan of fish, but this recipe completely changed my mind! It was so flavorful and moist.” – Lauren D.

⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Great dish! I paired it with quinoa and roasted asparagus, and it was the perfect meal.” – David L.

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