Name: Baked Lemon Butter Cod Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cod fillets or other white fish, 6 ounces each; ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Zest from one lemon; 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice; ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 1 lemon, cut in slices

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 6 reviews

If you’re searching for a light yet indulgent dish that comes together in just 20 minutes, this Baked Lemon Butter Cod Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine tender, flaky cod fillets bathed in a garlicky lemon butter sauce with a whisper of spice, delivering bright, fresh flavors that brighten up any weeknight dinner. It’s not just simple and quick; it’s a showcase of how basic ingredients can transform into an elegant, mouthwatering meal that feels just right whether you’re feeding yourself or impressing guests.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl with three layers inside: a smooth yellow layer of melted butter at the bottom, a light tan powder on the left side, and a small pile of dark red chili flakes on the right. The bowl is set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Baked Lemon Butter Cod Recipe celebrates simplicity and freshness, with every ingredient playing a vital role to build flavor, texture, and color. You’ll find that these everyday pantry staples and fresh components come together to make magic in your oven.

4 cod fillets (6 ounces each): Choose firm, white fish for the best flaky texture.
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted: Provides rich creaminess and carries the garlic and lemon flavors.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Freshly minced garlic gives an irresistible punch of aroma.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the garlic flavor with a deeper intensity.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a subtle sweet-savory note.
Zest of one lemon: Brings a bright, tangy fragrance that wakes up the dish.
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice: Balances richness with a refreshing citrus zing.
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes: A touch of heat that elevates without overpowering.
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: For a pop of herbaceous color and freshness.
1 lemon, sliced: Thin slices roast alongside the fish adding aroma and visual appeal.

How to Make Baked Lemon Butter Cod Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Lemon Butter Sauce

Start by heating your oven to 400°F. In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, garlic powder, onion powder, lemon zest, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes. This concoction forms a luscious sauce full of bright and savory notes that will infuse the cod as it bakes.

Step 2: Coat the Cod Fillets

Pat your cod fillets dry thoroughly to avoid watery, soggy fish. Then, toss them gently in the lemon butter sauce, ensuring every fillet is beautifully coated. This step is key for ensuring that the cod absorbs all the flavorful goodness before baking.

Step 3: Arrange and Bake

Place the sauced cod fillets in a 9×13-inch baking dish and pour any remaining lemon butter sauce over the top. Arrange lemon slices artfully around and on the fish. Pop the dish into the oven and bake for 10 to 15 minutes. The fish will turn opaque and flake easily with a fork when done.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the fish for a vibrant finish. Serve immediately to enjoy the fish at its most tender and flavorful state.

How to Serve Baked Lemon Butter Cod Recipe

A white plate holds a piece of light golden cooked fish topped with a thin lemon slice and sprinkled with red chili flakes and small green herb pieces. The fish sits in a thin pool of yellow oily sauce. Around the fish are three lemon slices arranged on the plate. The plate is set on a white marbled surface, with three lemon wedges and red chili flakes scattered nearby. A gold fork with a black handle and a grey cloth napkin are visible in the top right corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh parsley not only adds color but a lively flavor that complements the buttery lemon sauce beautifully. You can also add a few extra lemon wedges on the side for guests who want a little extra citrus squeeze.

Side Dishes

This cod pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides such as steamed asparagus, garlic roasted potatoes, or a crisp green salad. Rice pilaf or cauliflower rice also soak up the buttery juices perfectly and round out a balanced meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming presentation, serve your cod fillets on a bed of wilted spinach or quinoa and scatter edible flowers or microgreens for an elegant touch. For a casual crowd, family-style on a large platter garnished with lemon slices and parsley invites everyone to dig in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers from your Baked Lemon Butter Cod Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for up to 2 days, making it a convenient option for next day meals.

Freezing

While fresh fish is always best, you can freeze cooked cod in a suitable freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Wrap tightly to preserve moisture and flavor. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

To reheat your cod without drying it out, place it in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes or use a microwave at low power in short intervals. This helps preserve the delicate texture and buttery sauce.

FAQs

Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?

Absolutely! While cod is ideal for its flaky texture and mild flavor, you can substitute with haddock, halibut, or tilapia for similar results.

Is it necessary to use both lemon zest and lemon juice?

Yes! Lemon zest provides aromatic oils that brighten the dish, while lemon juice adds fresh acidity, balancing the richness of the butter perfectly.

How spicy is this recipe with red pepper flakes?

The red pepper flakes add just a gentle kick of heat that complements the lemon butter without overwhelming the delicate fish flavors. You can adjust the amount or omit if you prefer no spice.

Can I prepare the lemon butter sauce in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just bring it to room temperature or gently warm before coating the fish to keep the butter melted but not hot enough to start cooking the cod prematurely.

What if I don’t have fresh parsley?

Dried parsley can work in a pinch, but fresh parsley adds a bright herbaceousness that enhances both the flavor and presentation. Try to keep some fresh on hand for garnishing your dishes.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Lemon Butter Cod Recipe is an absolute joy to make and eat — quick enough for a busy weeknight but flavorful enough to feel special. Light, buttery, and bursting with bright lemon and garlic notes, it’s a satisfying way to enjoy healthy seafood without fuss. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and make this delightful recipe part of your dinner rotation!