There is something truly satisfying about a dish that feels elegant yet is incredibly simple to prepare, and this Broiled Cod with Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce Recipe perfectly fits that bill. Tender, flaky cod fillets are bathed in a luscious, bright sauce where buttery richness meets the zesty freshness of lemon and the pungent warmth of garlic. Every bite delivers a harmonious balance, making this recipe an absolute keeper for anyone craving a delightful seafood meal that comes together quickly and impressively.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this dish, the ingredient list is refreshingly simple, but each component plays a critical role in delivering texture, flavor, and that beautiful golden finish. Using fresh garlic and real lemon juice ups the brightness, while butter creates a silky, indulgent sauce that clings perfectly to the cod.
- 1 pound cod fillets (4 fillets): The star of the dish, cod is mild, flaky, and perfect for broiling.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural flavor of the fish without overpowering it.
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper: Adds just a hint of warmth and balances the acidity.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Creates the rich, silky base of the sauce without excess salt.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced): Brings aromatic depth and a punch of flavor that melds beautifully with the butter.
- 1 tablespoon fresh squeezed lemon juice: Brightens and lifts the sauce with fresh citrus zing.
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest: Adds a concentrated lemon fragrance that complements the juice.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (minced): Adds a pop of vibrant green color and a fresh herbal note.
How to Make Broiled Cod with Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Broiler
First things first, make sure your broiler is preheated and ready to go. This ensures the cod cooks quickly and evenly, giving it that perfect golden finish on top while keeping it juicy inside. Positioning the oven rack 4 to 6 inches from the heat is ideal for this recipe.
Step 2: Season the Cod Fillets
Pat your cod fillets dry using a paper towel to remove excess moisture; this helps achieve a nice sear. Then sprinkle both sides evenly with salt and pepper. Simple seasoning allows the natural taste of the cod to shine through without competing with the sauce.
Step 3: Prepare the Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce
In your cast iron or oven-safe skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Once melted, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds—just enough to release those irresistible aromas without burning. Stir in the fresh lemon juice and lemon zest to build a sauce that’s rich, tangy, and fragrant.
Step 4: Cook the Cod on the Stovetop
Carefully place the seasoned cod fillets in the hot skillet, allowing them to cook for about 1 minute on the first side. This step helps set the fish before broiling. Then gently flip the fillets over to prepare for finishing them in the oven.
Step 5: Broil the Cod to Perfection
Transfer your skillet to the oven and broil the cod fillets for 6 to 9 minutes, depending on thickness, until they reach an internal temperature of 130-140°F. This method seals in moisture and develops a slightly caramelized top, delivering an unbeatable texture and flavor punch.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve Your Masterpiece
Once out of the oven, sprinkle the cod generously with minced parsley to add fresh color and flavor. Optionally, add some additional lemon slices for presentation and a little extra citrusy brightness. Serve immediately while warm for an irresistible dish that’s sure to impress.
How to Serve Broiled Cod with Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped parsley isn’t just for looks; it adds a refreshing herbal note that cuts through the richness of the butter. A few thin slices or wedges of lemon alongside the fish let everyone add an extra citrus twist if desired.
Side Dishes
Because this dish is rich and flavorful, it pairs wonderfully with light, simple sides. Steamed asparagus, garlic roasted potatoes, or a crisp garden salad with vinaigrette all complement the cod without competing with its delicate flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
Try plating your Broiled Cod with Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce Recipe over a bed of fluffy couscous, quinoa, or even creamy mashed cauliflower for a lovely texture contrast. Drizzle a little extra sauce over the top and garnish with herbs for a restaurant-quality experience at home.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, place any extra cod in an airtight container and refrigerate. Enjoy within 1 to 2 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezing
Since broiled fish can lose some texture after freezing, it’s best eaten fresh. However, if needed, wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing, and try to consume within 1 month for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, avoid the microwave which can dry out the fish. Instead, gently warm the cod in a low oven (about 275°F) covered with foil to retain moisture and prevent overcooking.
FAQs
Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?
Absolutely! While cod works beautifully due to its mild flavor and flaky texture, you can substitute with haddock, halibut, or even tilapia depending on your preference and availability.
How do I know when the cod is perfectly cooked?
Look for the fish to become opaque and easily flake with a fork. Using a meat thermometer, an internal temperature between 130-140°F ensures it’s tender and moist without drying out.
Can I make the lemon butter garlic sauce ahead of time?
The sauce is best made fresh to preserve the bright lemon flavor and garlic aroma, but you can melt the butter and infuse garlic a few minutes ahead. Just avoid adding lemon juice too early to keep it vibrant.
What if I don’t have a cast iron skillet?
No worries! Any ovenproof skillet or baking dish suitable for broiling will work fine. Just be careful when handling as the pan will be very hot coming out of the broiler.
Is this recipe healthy?
Yes! Cod is a lean fish packed with protein and low in calories. The butter adds richness, but you can always adjust the quantity or use a heart-healthy alternative if you prefer.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a deliciously satisfying meal that feels fancy but is incredibly straightforward, give this Broiled Cod with Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce Recipe a try. Its bright, buttery flavors combined with tender fish make it a perfect weeknight winner or impressive dish for guests. Once you’ve experienced this harmony of taste and texture, it might just become one of your go-to seafood favorites!
Print
Broiled Cod with Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Broiling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Broiled Cod with Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce recipe offers a quick and flavorful seafood dish featuring tender cod fillets cooked under the broiler and served with a zesty lemon butter garlic sauce. Perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner, it combines simple ingredients to create a delicious, restaurant-quality meal in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound cod fillets (4 fillets)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, minced
Instructions
- Preheat the Broiler: Turn on your oven’s broiler and allow it to heat up while you prepare the fish.
- Season the Cod Fillets: Pat the cod fillets dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Season both sides evenly with salt and pepper.
- Prepare the Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce: Heat a cast iron or oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat. Melt the butter in the skillet, then add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the fresh lemon juice and lemon zest to combine.
- Cook the Cod in the Skillet: Place the seasoned cod fillets into the skillet with the sauce and cook for 1 minute on one side. Carefully flip each fillet over.
- Broil the Cod: Transfer the skillet to the oven, positioning it about 4 to 6 inches from the broiler. Broil the cod for 6 to 9 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 130-140°F and the fish is opaque and flakes easily.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven, sprinkle the cod with minced fresh parsley, and optionally add extra lemon slices for garnish. Serve immediately while hot for the best flavor.
Notes
- Ensure the cod fillets are dry before seasoning to help achieve a nice sear and prevent steaming.
- Use a cast iron or oven-safe skillet to transfer directly from stovetop to oven safely.
- Watch the cod closely while broiling to prevent overcooking, as broilers can vary in intensity.
- The internal temperature of 130-140°F ensures the fish is moist and perfectly cooked.
- Leftover cod can be refrigerated and enjoyed cold or gently reheated.
