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Garlic Lemon Butter Cod Flavorful and Simple Recipe

by on November 23, 2025

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Are you ready to impress at dinner with a dish that’s both tasty and simple? This Garlic Lemon Butter Cod recipe is perfect for you! With fresh ingredients and easy steps, you’ll create a meal that bursts with flavor. Whether you’re a novice cook or a pro in the kitchen, this recipe will guide you to achieve flaky, moist cod every time. Let’s dive in and bring your cooking to the next level!

- 4 cod fillets (approximately 6 oz each) - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter - 4 cloves garlic, finely minced - Juice from 1 large lemon - Zest from 1 lemon - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste - Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish) - Lemon wedges (for serving) Each ingredient plays a key role in this dish. The cod fillets are the star, providing a mild flavor and flaky texture. Use fresh cod for the best taste. The unsalted butter adds richness and helps the garlic flavor shine. Minced garlic brings a wonderful aroma and depth. Lemon juice and zest offer brightness, making the dish lively. Dried thyme adds an earthy note, while smoked paprika gives a warm, smoky flavor. A sprinkle of sea salt and black pepper finishes the dish perfectly. Fresh ingredients make a big difference in cooking. Fresh cod tastes better and cooks more evenly. Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish and balances the butter's richness. Fresh herbs like parsley not only add flavor but also color to your plate. Always choose fresh ingredients when you can to boost your meals. You will notice the difference right away! {{ingredient_image_2}} First, set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This heat will help cook the cod evenly. While the oven heats, gather your ingredients. You will need: - 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each) - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter - 4 cloves garlic, finely minced - Juice and zest from 1 large lemon - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper - Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish) - Lemon wedges (for serving) Place the cod fillets in a baking dish. Lay them in a single layer so they cook evenly. Next, grab a small saucepan and melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for 1-2 minutes until it smells great and turns golden. Be careful not to burn it. Now, take the pan off the heat. Pour in the fresh lemon juice and lemon zest. Then, add the dried thyme, smoked paprika, sea salt, and black pepper. Stir well to mix all the flavors together. Set this tasty sauce aside for now. Pour the garlic lemon butter sauce over the cod fillets. Make sure each piece is well-coated to soak up all that delicious flavor. Move the dish into your preheated oven. Bake the cod for 12-15 minutes. Check if it's done by using a fork. The fish should flake easily and look opaque. When the cod is ready, take the dish out of the oven. Let it rest for a couple of minutes. This helps keep the fish moist. Finally, sprinkle fresh parsley on top for color. Serve your cod with lemon wedges on the side. Enjoy this simple and tasty dish! When picking cod, look for fillets that are firm and moist. The skin should be shiny. If you can, buy wild-caught cod for better taste and texture. Fresh fish has a mild smell, not a strong fishy odor. If buying frozen, ensure it is well-packaged and not freezer burned. To keep your cod flaky and moist, do not overcook it. Bake it until it is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Use a meat thermometer if needed; the fish should reach 145°F (63°C). Adding the garlic lemon butter sauce also helps keep the fish moist. Let it rest for a few minutes after baking to lock in moisture. You can enhance the flavor of your cod in many ways. Try adding fresh herbs like dill or basil for a twist. A pinch of red pepper flakes can bring some heat. For a citrusy zing, add lime juice along with the lemon. Experiment with different spices like cumin or coriander to create your unique flavor profile. Pro Tips Choose Fresh Cod: Always opt for fresh cod fillets for the best flavor and texture. Look for fillets that are moist and have a clean, ocean-like smell. Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the cod as it bakes. Overcooking can lead to a dry texture. The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork. Enhance with Herbs: Feel free to add other herbs like dill or basil to the garlic lemon butter for an extra layer of flavor that complements the cod. Perfect Pairings: Serve the cod with a light side like a mixed green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the butter sauce. {{image_4}} You can use other fish if you want a twist. I love using halibut or tilapia. Both are mild and cook well. Salmon is also a great choice, adding a richer flavor. Just adjust cooking times based on the fish thickness. Thinner fillets cook faster, while thicker ones need more time. Enjoy exploring with different types of fish. Herbs can change the dish's taste a lot. Try adding fresh dill or basil for a new vibe. You can also use oregano for a more earthy flavor. Want some heat? Add red pepper flakes for a kick. Always taste as you go to find what you like best. Mixing herbs can create a fun flavor profile. Pairing sides can enhance your meal. Steamed veggies, like broccoli or asparagus, work well. A light salad can add freshness. You might enjoy a bed of rice or quinoa too. These sides soak up the lemon butter sauce nicely. Serve with lemon wedges to boost flavor. Each bite will be a burst of joy. To keep your leftover cod fresh, let it cool first. Wrap the fillets tightly in plastic wrap or foil. You can also place them in an airtight container. This helps keep the moisture in. Store the cod in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat the leftover cod, you can reheat it easily. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cod on a baking sheet. Cover it with foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 10 to 15 minutes, or until warm. You can also use the microwave. Just place the cod on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. If you want to save the cod for later, you can freeze it. First, let the fillets cool completely. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. Be sure to remove as much air as possible. Label the bag with the date. You can freeze the cod for up to three months. When ready to use, thaw it in the fridge overnight for the best results. Yes, you can use frozen cod fillets. Just make sure to thaw them first. Place the frozen fillets in the fridge overnight or run them under cold water. This helps the cod cook evenly. When you bake the thawed fish, follow the same steps for the garlic lemon butter sauce and baking time. You can pair this cod with many sides. I recommend steamed vegetables or a light salad. If you want carbs, try rice or quinoa. These options balance the meal and complement the flavors. For a fresh touch, add lemon wedges on the side. They add a nice zing to each bite. Yes, you can make the garlic lemon butter sauce ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge for up to two days. When you're ready to cook, gently reheat it in a small pot. This will help bring back the flavors. Pour it over the cod fillets just before baking. This blog post covered making delicious Garlic Lemon Butter Cod. We started with key ingredients and tips for freshness. I shared step-by-step instructions for cooking it just right. You learned how to select the best cod and enhance flavors. In the end, cooking is about joy and exploration. Use this recipe to impress others or enjoy a simple meal. Keep experimenting with different fish and flavors. Happy cooking!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 25 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
  2. Flavorful Sauce: The garlic lemon butter sauce enhances the natural flavors of the cod, creating a delightful dish.
  3. Healthy Choice: Cod is a lean protein that is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, making this a nutritious option.
  4. Versatile Serving: This dish pairs well with various sides, such as steamed vegetables or a fresh salad, for a balanced meal.

Ingredients

List of Ingredients for Garlic Lemon Butter Cod

– 4 cod fillets (approximately 6 oz each)

– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

– 4 cloves garlic, finely minced

– Juice from 1 large lemon

– Zest from 1 lemon

– 1 teaspoon dried thyme

– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

– Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

– Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

– Lemon wedges (for serving)

Helpful Ingredient Notes

Each ingredient plays a key role in this dish. The cod fillets are the star, providing a mild flavor and flaky texture. Use fresh cod for the best taste. The unsalted butter adds richness and helps the garlic flavor shine. Minced garlic brings a wonderful aroma and depth. Lemon juice and zest offer brightness, making the dish lively. Dried thyme adds an earthy note, while smoked paprika gives a warm, smoky flavor. A sprinkle of sea salt and black pepper finishes the dish perfectly.

Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Fresh ingredients make a big difference in cooking. Fresh cod tastes better and cooks more evenly. Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish and balances the butter’s richness. Fresh herbs like parsley not only add flavor but also color to your plate. Always choose fresh ingredients when you can to boost your meals. You will notice the difference right away!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Oven and Ingredients

First, set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This heat will help cook the cod evenly. While the oven heats, gather your ingredients. You will need:

– 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)

– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

– 4 cloves garlic, finely minced

– Juice and zest from 1 large lemon

– 1 teaspoon dried thyme

– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

– Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

– Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

– Lemon wedges (for serving)

Place the cod fillets in a baking dish. Lay them in a single layer so they cook evenly.

Making the Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce

Next, grab a small saucepan and melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for 1-2 minutes until it smells great and turns golden. Be careful not to burn it.

Now, take the pan off the heat. Pour in the fresh lemon juice and lemon zest. Then, add the dried thyme, smoked paprika, sea salt, and black pepper. Stir well to mix all the flavors together. Set this tasty sauce aside for now.

Cooking the Cod to Perfection

Pour the garlic lemon butter sauce over the cod fillets. Make sure each piece is well-coated to soak up all that delicious flavor.

Move the dish into your preheated oven. Bake the cod for 12-15 minutes. Check if it’s done by using a fork. The fish should flake easily and look opaque.

When the cod is ready, take the dish out of the oven. Let it rest for a couple of minutes. This helps keep the fish moist.

Finally, sprinkle fresh parsley on top for color. Serve your cod with lemon wedges on the side. Enjoy this simple and tasty dish!

Tips & Tricks

How to Choose the Best Cod Fish

When picking cod, look for fillets that are firm and moist. The skin should be shiny. If you can, buy wild-caught cod for better taste and texture. Fresh fish has a mild smell, not a strong fishy odor. If buying frozen, ensure it is well-packaged and not freezer burned.

Ensuring Flaky, Moist Cod

To keep your cod flaky and moist, do not overcook it. Bake it until it is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Use a meat thermometer if needed; the fish should reach 145°F (63°C). Adding the garlic lemon butter sauce also helps keep the fish moist. Let it rest for a few minutes after baking to lock in moisture.

Flavor Enhancements and Adjustments

You can enhance the flavor of your cod in many ways. Try adding fresh herbs like dill or basil for a twist. A pinch of red pepper flakes can bring some heat. For a citrusy zing, add lime juice along with the lemon. Experiment with different spices like cumin or coriander to create your unique flavor profile.

Pro Tips

  1. Choose Fresh Cod: Always opt for fresh cod fillets for the best flavor and texture. Look for fillets that are moist and have a clean, ocean-like smell.
  2. Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the cod as it bakes. Overcooking can lead to a dry texture. The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork.
  3. Enhance with Herbs: Feel free to add other herbs like dill or basil to the garlic lemon butter for an extra layer of flavor that complements the cod.
  4. Perfect Pairings: Serve the cod with a light side like a mixed green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the butter sauce.

Variations

Alternative Fish Options

You can use other fish if you want a twist. I love using halibut or tilapia. Both are mild and cook well. Salmon is also a great choice, adding a richer flavor. Just adjust cooking times based on the fish thickness. Thinner fillets cook faster, while thicker ones need more time. Enjoy exploring with different types of fish.

Spicing it Up: Adding Different Herbs

Herbs can change the dish’s taste a lot. Try adding fresh dill or basil for a new vibe. You can also use oregano for a more earthy flavor. Want some heat? Add red pepper flakes for a kick. Always taste as you go to find what you like best. Mixing herbs can create a fun flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions and Sides

Pairing sides can enhance your meal. Steamed veggies, like broccoli or asparagus, work well. A light salad can add freshness. You might enjoy a bed of rice or quinoa too. These sides soak up the lemon butter sauce nicely. Serve with lemon wedges to boost flavor. Each bite will be a burst of joy.

Storage Info

How to Store Leftover Cod

To keep your leftover cod fresh, let it cool first. Wrap the fillets tightly in plastic wrap or foil. You can also place them in an airtight container. This helps keep the moisture in. Store the cod in the fridge for up to three days.

Reheating Instructions

When you’re ready to eat the leftover cod, you can reheat it easily. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cod on a baking sheet. Cover it with foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 10 to 15 minutes, or until warm. You can also use the microwave. Just place the cod on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.

Freezing Garlic Lemon Butter Cod

If you want to save the cod for later, you can freeze it. First, let the fillets cool completely. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. Be sure to remove as much air as possible. Label the bag with the date. You can freeze the cod for up to three months. When ready to use, thaw it in the fridge overnight for the best results.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cod fillets for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen cod fillets. Just make sure to thaw them first. Place the frozen fillets in the fridge overnight or run them under cold water. This helps the cod cook evenly. When you bake the thawed fish, follow the same steps for the garlic lemon butter sauce and baking time.

What to serve with Garlic Lemon Butter Cod?

You can pair this cod with many sides. I recommend steamed vegetables or a light salad. If you want carbs, try rice or quinoa. These options balance the meal and complement the flavors. For a fresh touch, add lemon wedges on the side. They add a nice zing to each bite.

Can I make the garlic lemon butter sauce in advance?

Yes, you can make the garlic lemon butter sauce ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge for up to two days. When you’re ready to cook, gently reheat it in a small pot. This will help bring back the flavors. Pour it over the cod fillets just before baking.

This blog post covered making delicious Garlic Lemon Butter Cod. We started with key ingredients and tips for freshness. I shared step-by-step instructions for cooking it just right. You learned how to select the best cod and enhance flavors.

In the end, cooking is about joy and exploration. Use this recipe to impress others or enjoy a simple meal. Keep experimenting with different fish and flavors. Happy cookin

- 4 cod fillets (approximately 6 oz each) - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter - 4 cloves garlic, finely minced - Juice from 1 large lemon - Zest from 1 lemon - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste - Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish) - Lemon wedges (for serving) Each ingredient plays a key role in this dish. The cod fillets are the star, providing a mild flavor and flaky texture. Use fresh cod for the best taste. The unsalted butter adds richness and helps the garlic flavor shine. Minced garlic brings a wonderful aroma and depth. Lemon juice and zest offer brightness, making the dish lively. Dried thyme adds an earthy note, while smoked paprika gives a warm, smoky flavor. A sprinkle of sea salt and black pepper finishes the dish perfectly. Fresh ingredients make a big difference in cooking. Fresh cod tastes better and cooks more evenly. Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish and balances the butter's richness. Fresh herbs like parsley not only add flavor but also color to your plate. Always choose fresh ingredients when you can to boost your meals. You will notice the difference right away! {{ingredient_image_2}} First, set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This heat will help cook the cod evenly. While the oven heats, gather your ingredients. You will need: - 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each) - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter - 4 cloves garlic, finely minced - Juice and zest from 1 large lemon - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper - Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish) - Lemon wedges (for serving) Place the cod fillets in a baking dish. Lay them in a single layer so they cook evenly. Next, grab a small saucepan and melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for 1-2 minutes until it smells great and turns golden. Be careful not to burn it. Now, take the pan off the heat. Pour in the fresh lemon juice and lemon zest. Then, add the dried thyme, smoked paprika, sea salt, and black pepper. Stir well to mix all the flavors together. Set this tasty sauce aside for now. Pour the garlic lemon butter sauce over the cod fillets. Make sure each piece is well-coated to soak up all that delicious flavor. Move the dish into your preheated oven. Bake the cod for 12-15 minutes. Check if it's done by using a fork. The fish should flake easily and look opaque. When the cod is ready, take the dish out of the oven. Let it rest for a couple of minutes. This helps keep the fish moist. Finally, sprinkle fresh parsley on top for color. Serve your cod with lemon wedges on the side. Enjoy this simple and tasty dish! When picking cod, look for fillets that are firm and moist. The skin should be shiny. If you can, buy wild-caught cod for better taste and texture. Fresh fish has a mild smell, not a strong fishy odor. If buying frozen, ensure it is well-packaged and not freezer burned. To keep your cod flaky and moist, do not overcook it. Bake it until it is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Use a meat thermometer if needed; the fish should reach 145°F (63°C). Adding the garlic lemon butter sauce also helps keep the fish moist. Let it rest for a few minutes after baking to lock in moisture. You can enhance the flavor of your cod in many ways. Try adding fresh herbs like dill or basil for a twist. A pinch of red pepper flakes can bring some heat. For a citrusy zing, add lime juice along with the lemon. Experiment with different spices like cumin or coriander to create your unique flavor profile. Pro Tips Choose Fresh Cod: Always opt for fresh cod fillets for the best flavor and texture. Look for fillets that are moist and have a clean, ocean-like smell. Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the cod as it bakes. Overcooking can lead to a dry texture. The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork. Enhance with Herbs: Feel free to add other herbs like dill or basil to the garlic lemon butter for an extra layer of flavor that complements the cod. Perfect Pairings: Serve the cod with a light side like a mixed green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the butter sauce. {{image_4}} You can use other fish if you want a twist. I love using halibut or tilapia. Both are mild and cook well. Salmon is also a great choice, adding a richer flavor. Just adjust cooking times based on the fish thickness. Thinner fillets cook faster, while thicker ones need more time. Enjoy exploring with different types of fish. Herbs can change the dish's taste a lot. Try adding fresh dill or basil for a new vibe. You can also use oregano for a more earthy flavor. Want some heat? Add red pepper flakes for a kick. Always taste as you go to find what you like best. Mixing herbs can create a fun flavor profile. Pairing sides can enhance your meal. Steamed veggies, like broccoli or asparagus, work well. A light salad can add freshness. You might enjoy a bed of rice or quinoa too. These sides soak up the lemon butter sauce nicely. Serve with lemon wedges to boost flavor. Each bite will be a burst of joy. To keep your leftover cod fresh, let it cool first. Wrap the fillets tightly in plastic wrap or foil. You can also place them in an airtight container. This helps keep the moisture in. Store the cod in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat the leftover cod, you can reheat it easily. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cod on a baking sheet. Cover it with foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 10 to 15 minutes, or until warm. You can also use the microwave. Just place the cod on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. If you want to save the cod for later, you can freeze it. First, let the fillets cool completely. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. Be sure to remove as much air as possible. Label the bag with the date. You can freeze the cod for up to three months. When ready to use, thaw it in the fridge overnight for the best results. Yes, you can use frozen cod fillets. Just make sure to thaw them first. Place the frozen fillets in the fridge overnight or run them under cold water. This helps the cod cook evenly. When you bake the thawed fish, follow the same steps for the garlic lemon butter sauce and baking time. You can pair this cod with many sides. I recommend steamed vegetables or a light salad. If you want carbs, try rice or quinoa. These options balance the meal and complement the flavors. For a fresh touch, add lemon wedges on the side. They add a nice zing to each bite. Yes, you can make the garlic lemon butter sauce ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge for up to two days. When you're ready to cook, gently reheat it in a small pot. This will help bring back the flavors. Pour it over the cod fillets just before baking. This blog post covered making delicious Garlic Lemon Butter Cod. We started with key ingredients and tips for freshness. I shared step-by-step instructions for cooking it just right. You learned how to select the best cod and enhance flavors. In the end, cooking is about joy and exploration. Use this recipe to impress others or enjoy a simple meal. Keep experimenting with different fish and flavors. Happy cooking!

Garlic Lemon Butter Cod Delight

A delicious cod recipe featuring a flavorful garlic lemon butter sauce.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Seafood
Servings 4
Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 fillets cod
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1 large lemon, juice
  • 1 lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • to taste sea salt
  • to taste freshly ground black pepper
  • for garnish fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • for serving lemon wedges

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking.
  • In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter slowly. Once the butter has fully melted, add the finely minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant and lightly golden—be cautious not to let it burn.
  • Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, dried thyme, smoked paprika, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix well to combine all flavors, then set this delightful garlic lemon butter mixture aside.
  • Take a baking dish and arrange the cod fillets in a single layer. Pour the mouthwatering garlic lemon butter sauce evenly over each fillet, ensuring every piece is generously coated for maximum flavor.
  • Transition the prepared dish to the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. The cod is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and appears opaque throughout.
  • Once baked, carefully remove the cod from the oven and allow it to rest for a couple of minutes to lock in moisture. Finish by garnishing with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
  • Serve this delectable cod along with additional lemon wedges on the side, allowing each diner to add a refreshing splash of lemon to their taste.

Notes

Serve with steamed vegetables or a light salad for a balanced meal.
Keyword butter, cod, garlic, lemon, seafood

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