If you’re searching for a comforting yet elegant dinner that comes together in no time, this Lemon Butter Baked Cod Recipe is going to become your new best friend. Picture tender, flaky cod fillets bathed in a luscious buttery lemon sauce, infused with fragrant garlic and a touch of paprika that gives the dish a subtle kick. It’s light, healthy, and irresistibly delicious, making it the perfect centerpiece for weeknight meals or impressing guests without breaking a sweat. The bright citrus and fresh herbs brighten every bite, making this baked cod recipe a true crowd-pleaser you’ll want to make again and again.

Lemon Butter Baked Cod Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every component of this recipe is thoughtfully chosen to build layers of flavor and texture without any fuss. The combination of fresh lemon, butter, and garlic creates a vibrant sauce that complements the mild, flaky cod perfectly, while just a sprinkle of paprika adds warming depth and a pop of color.

Cod fillets (4, about 6 oz each): Choose fresh, firm fillets for the best flaky texture and mild flavor.
Unsalted butter (3 tablespoons, melted): Provides rich creaminess and helps carry the lemon and garlic flavors.
Fresh lemon juice (2 tablespoons): Brings a zesty brightness that balances the richness of butter.
Lemon zest (2 teaspoons): Adds a concentrated lemon aroma and vibrant flavor.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Infuses savory depth and aroma that melts beautifully when baked.
Fresh parsley (1 tablespoon, chopped): Offers a fresh, herbaceous finish and lovely green color.
Paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Delivers a mild smoky warmth and appetizing reddish hue.
Salt and black pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors together.
Lemon slices (for garnish): Adds a pretty touch and extra citrus burst when served.

How to Make Lemon Butter Baked Cod Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F to ensure it’s hot enough to bake the cod perfectly. Lightly grease a baking dish so that the cod doesn’t stick during cooking. Placing the fillets in a single layer helps them cook evenly and develop a tender, flaky texture.

Step 2: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. This mixture combines bright citrus notes with the richness of butter and a hint of spice to infuse the cod with vibrant layers of flavor while baking.

Step 3: Coat the Cod Fillets

Generously spoon the lemon butter sauce over each cod fillet, making sure every nook is coated. The butter’s fat helps seal in moisture while the lemon and garlic soak into the fish, delivering a luscious taste with every bite.

Step 4: Bake Until Perfectly Flaky

Slide the baking dish into the oven and bake the cod for about 12 to 15 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the fish turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The timing is quick but produces tender, juicy fillets that are bursting with zesty, buttery goodness.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, sprinkle the fresh parsley over the cod for a pop of color and freshness. Add lemon slices as a beautiful garnish and a hint of extra brightness. Serve the cod immediately so you can enjoy the crispy edges and warm, buttery sauce at their best.

How to Serve Lemon Butter Baked Cod Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like parsley or dill elevate this dish, bringing a touch of garden-fresh aroma and vibrant color. Lemon slices are not only pretty but also allow guests to add an extra burst of citrus if they desire. A light drizzle of extra melted butter or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt can take the flavor over the top, making every bite memorable.

Side Dishes

This Lemon Butter Baked Cod Recipe pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Roasted vegetables such as asparagus, green beans, or carrots are fantastic for adding texture and natural sweetness. A simple rice pilaf or garlic mashed potatoes soak up the buttery sauce perfectly. For a lighter option, a crisp green salad with a citrus vinaigrette complements the cod’s fresh flavors without overpowering them.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party or special occasion, consider plating the cod atop a bed of sautéed spinach or creamy polenta for an elegant touch. A drizzle of extra lemon butter sauce around the plate makes the presentation as delightful as the taste. You could even serve the baked cod in individual ramekins with roasted seasonal vegetables for a charming, personalized meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers from your Lemon Butter Baked Cod Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the cod and sauce together to preserve moisture and flavor. Reheating gently is key to maintaining the tender texture.

Freezing

While fresh is always best with baked fish, you can freeze the cooked cod for up to one month by wrapping each fillet tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to keep the texture as close to fresh as possible.

Reheating

To reheat your leftovers, use a low oven setting (around 275°F) to warm the cod gently without drying it out. Heating in a microwave is possible but should be done carefully in short bursts to avoid overcooking. Adding a little extra butter or lemon juice before reheating helps revive the flavors and moisture.

FAQs

Can I use other types of fish for this Lemon Butter Baked Cod Recipe?

Absolutely! While this recipe shines with cod’s mild, flaky texture, you can substitute with haddock, halibut, or even tilapia. Just be mindful of the cooking time as some fish fillets may be thinner or thicker than cod.

Is it necessary to use fresh lemon juice and zest?

Using fresh lemon juice and zest really makes a difference; fresh ingredients bring brightness and a natural citrus aroma that bottled juice can’t quite match. However, if needed, bottled lemon juice can be a convenient substitute in a pinch.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Swap the butter for a dairy-free alternative like olive oil or a plant-based margarine. While the flavor will shift slightly, you’ll still get delicious baked cod with wonderful citrus notes.

How do I know when the cod is perfectly cooked?

The best way to check is looking for opaque color and flaky texture. The fish should easily flake with a fork but not be dry or rubbery. Cooking time can vary slightly based on fillet thickness, so keep an eye on it after 12 minutes.

Can I prepare the lemon butter sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can whisk together the lemon butter sauce up to a day before and refrigerate it. Just bring it to room temperature before spooning it over the cod and baking. This makes prep even faster on cooking day.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about this Lemon Butter Baked Cod Recipe that turns simple ingredients into a feast worthy of any table. The balance of rich butter, bright lemon, and tender cod creates a memorable meal that’s both wholesome and satisfying. I can’t wait for you to try it and enjoy every luscious bite as much as I do — it’s bound to become a staple on your dinner rotation!