Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Cod is like a warm hug from the ocean, wrapped in a blanket of buttery goodness. Picture tender cod fillets swimming in a pool of zesty lemon and aromatic garlic, making your taste buds do a happy dance. The moment this dish hits your table, expect everyone to turn into fish enthusiasts, eagerly diving into that golden-brown crust.
Now, let’s be real—who doesn’t want a meal that tastes like it took hours to prepare but actually comes together in a flash? This Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Cod is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want to impress without breaking a sweat. Trust me; it’s an experience you don’t want to miss!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Cod is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- The flavor profile combines zesty lemon and savory garlic with creamy butter for an irresistible taste.
- Its visual appeal shines with golden-brown crusts that make it a showstopper on any dinner plate.
- Versatile enough for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish can be paired with various sides for any palate.
Ingredients for Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Cod
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Cod Fillets: Fresh or thawed fillets are key here; they should be firm and glistening to ensure maximum flavor.
Unsalted Butter: Melted butter adds richness; using unsalted allows you to control the seasoning better.
Fresh Garlic: Minced fresh garlic elevates the flavor profile; the more garlic, the merrier!
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brings brightness, balancing the richness of the butter beautifully.
Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds color and a refreshing herbaceous note to finish off the dish.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preferences.
For the Sauce:
Lemon Zest: Zest from one lemon intensifies the citrus flavor and adds an aromatic quality.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Cod
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s warming up, grab a baking dish and give it a little spritz with nonstick cooking spray. We want our cod to slide right out after baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Cod
Rinse your cod fillets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Place them in your baking dish like they’re getting ready for their Instagram debut.
Step 3: Make That Zesty Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine melted unsalted butter, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir until well blended—this sauce is basically liquid gold!
Step 4: Dress It Up
Pour half of your zesty sauce over the cod fillets. Give them a gentle massage—yes, fish need love too! Sprinkle salt and pepper on top like you’re auditioning for MasterChef.
Step 5: Bake Away
Place your baking dish into the preheated oven and let those bad boys bake for about 12-15 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they flake easily with a fork and have turned that lovely golden color.
Step 6: Final Touches
Once baked, remove from the oven and drizzle the remaining sauce over each fillet. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley because we all know presentation matters!
Transfer to plates and serve with steamed vegetables or fluffy rice for an unforgettable dinner experience that will have everyone begging for seconds!
And there you have it—a delightful Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Cod that’s not only quick but packs a flavorful punch! Enjoy every buttery bite while secretly planning tonight’s dessert because let’s be honest; you deserve it after such an impressive feast!
You Must Know
- This Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Cod is not just a dish; it’s an experience!
- With its tangy flavor and buttery richness, it transforms any meal into a special occasion.
- Plus, it’s so easy to make that even your busiest days can end with gourmet vibes.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the best Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Cod, start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Next, prepare your baking dish with butter and garlic, then place the cod fillets snugly. Finally, drizzle with lemon juice before baking for about 15-20 minutes.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the cod for other fish like haddock or tilapia if you’re feeling adventurous! A sprinkle of fresh herbs like dill or parsley can elevate the dish even more. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different citrus juices too!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover cod in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, use a microwave or oven at a low temperature to avoid drying it out. A splash of lemon juice can help revive those flavors!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always ensure your fish is fresh—great quality makes all the difference!
- For maximum flavor, let the cod marinate in the butter mixture for at least 30 minutes before baking.
- Lastly, watch closely while baking; overcooked fish is a culinary tragedy.
Sharing this recipe brings back memories of my first dinner party where I served this Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Cod. Everyone raved about it, and I felt like a culinary superstar—until I realized I’d forgotten the salad!
FAQs :
What is Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Cod?
Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Cod is a delicious and simple seafood dish that features cod fillets baked with a flavorful mixture of butter, garlic, and lemon juice. The combination of these ingredients enhances the natural taste of the fish, making it tender and flaky. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also healthy, providing a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
How long does it take to cook Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Cod?
Typically, Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Cod takes about 15 to 20 minutes to cook in the oven at 400°F (200°C). The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the cod fillets. To ensure perfect results, check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) using a food thermometer. The fish should be opaque and flake easily with a fork when done.
Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cod for Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Cod. However, it is advisable to thaw the fish completely before cooking to ensure even baking. To thaw the cod, place it in the refrigerator overnight or submerge it in cold water for quicker results. After thawing, pat the fish dry with paper towels before applying the lemon garlic butter mixture.
What sides pair well with Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Cod?
Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Cod pairs wonderfully with various sides. Consider serving it with steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli for a light meal. You can also complement this dish with rice or quinoa to soak up the flavorful sauce. A fresh garden salad or roasted potatoes make excellent accompaniments as well.
Conclusion for Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Cod :
In summary, Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Cod is a quick and healthy meal that anyone can prepare at home. With its simple ingredients and short cooking time, this dish makes an ideal weeknight dinner option. Remember to use fresh cod for the best flavor and texture. Whether paired with veggies or grains, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends while delivering delicious flavors in every bite. Enjoy your culinary creation!
Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Cod
Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Cod is a quick and flavorful seafood dish that will impress your family and friends. This recipe features tender cod fillets enveloped in a rich sauce of melted butter, zesty lemon juice, and fragrant garlic, baked to perfection until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Seafood
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking dish with nonstick spray.
- Rinse the cod fillets under cold water and pat dry. Place them in the baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, and lemon zest until well combined.
- Pour half of the sauce over the cod fillets and season with salt and pepper.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until the fish flakes easily and turns golden brown.
- Drizzle remaining sauce over the baked cod and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cod fillet (170g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 570mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: For added flavor, marinate the cod in the butter mixture for 30 minutes before baking. Feel free to substitute cod with haddock or tilapia if desired. Serve with steamed vegetables or a side of rice for a complete meal.
