Description

This Lemon Butter Baked Cod recipe is a simple and delicious way to enjoy tender, flaky cod fillets enhanced with a zesty lemon butter sauce. Perfectly baked to retain moisture and flavor, this dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables or a light salad for a healthy, satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Fish

4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)

Sauce and Seasoning

3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 teaspoons lemon zest
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Lemon slices, for garnish

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Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish to prevent the cod from sticking.
Prepare the cod fillets: Place the cod fillets in a single layer inside the prepared baking dish, ensuring they are evenly spaced.
Make the lemon butter sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Apply the sauce: Spoon the lemon butter mixture evenly over each cod fillet, making sure each piece is well coated for maximum flavor.
Bake the fish: Bake the cod in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork, indicating it is cooked through.
Garnish and serve: Remove the baked cod from the oven, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top, garnish with lemon slices, and serve immediately with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables or rice.

Notes

For extra flavor, marinate the cod in the lemon butter mixture for 15–20 minutes before baking.
Serve with roasted vegetables, rice, or a light salad for a complete meal.