A warm, buttery aroma fills the kitchen as the cod roasts to perfection, its flaky texture promising a delightful bite. This Garlic Butter Baked Cod is not only simple to prepare but also takes just 20 minutes from start to finish. The secret to its success lies in the rich garlic butter that infuses the fish with irresistible flavor.
This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a quick, healthy dinner option on busy weeknights or those special occasions when you want to impress without hours of fuss. You can prepare the garlic butter in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The cod fillets emerge from the oven perfectly juicy and tender.
- A rich garlic butter sauce elevates the taste to gourmet levels.
- It takes less than 30 minutes from prep to plate, perfect for hectic evenings.
- Minimal clean-up is required, making it a practical choice for busy cooks.
What You’ll Need
Here’s everything you’ll need to recreate this delicious dish.
For the Cod
- 4 fresh cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
For the Garlic Butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
For Garnishing
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Cod can be replaced with haddock or tilapia.
- Unsalted butter can be substituted with ghee.
- Fresh parsley can be exchanged for basil or dill.
How to Make It
Follow these simple steps to create your delicious garlic butter baked cod.
Preheat the Oven
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a baking dish with nonstick spray.
Melt the Butter
In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Stir in lemon juice and remove from heat.
Prepare the Cod
Place cod fillets in the baking dish. Pour garlic butter mixture evenly over fillets. Season with salt and pepper.
Bake the Cod
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until fish flakes easily with a fork.
Garnish and Serve
Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
How to Store It
Fridge: store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: no, it doesn’t freeze well due to texture changes.
Reheat: microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
Tips for Best Results
- Ensure the cod is fresh for the tastiest outcome.
- Don’t overcook the fish; it should be just flaky.
- Let the garlic butter cool slightly before pouring for better adherence.
- Pair with a light side salad for balance.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with steamed vegetables for a nutritious meal.
- Pair with rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious garlic butter.
- Ideal for a cozy dinner party or special occasions.
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