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Baked Lemon Garlic Cod (with Butter Sauce)

by

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes

  • Cook Time: 15 minutes

  • Total Time: 25 minutes

  • Course: Main Course

  • Cuisine: Mediterranean / American Seafood

  • Servings: 4 servings

  • Intensity Level: Easy / Beginner-Friendly

Equipment Needed

  • Baking dish or casserole dish (approx. 9×13 inches)

  • Small saucepan (for melting and mixing the butter sauce)

  • Measuring cups and spoons

  • Sharp chef’s knife and cutting board

  • Lemon juicer

Ingredients

For the Fish:

  • 4 thick cod fillets (about 6 to 8 ounces each, skinless, fresh or thoroughly thawed)

  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

  • 1 large lemon, thinly sliced into rounds

  • 2 tablespoons fresh flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

  • A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a subtle kick)

For the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce:

  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest

  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (helps emulsify the sauce)

  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a small amount of olive oil or melted butter to prevent any sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Cod Fillets

Pat the cod fillets thoroughly dry using clean paper towels. Removing excess surface moisture is crucial because it ensures the fish absorbs the rich flavors of the butter sauce instead of steaming in its own liquid. Season both sides of the fillets lightly with salt and freshly ground black pepper, then arrange them neatly in a single layer inside the prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Mix the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

In a small mixing bowl or saucepan, combine the melted unsalted butter, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, and dried oregano. Whisk the mixture vigorously until smooth and completely emulsified. The Dijon mustard acts as a natural binder, keeping the butter and lemon juice cohesively blended rather than separating during the baking process.

Step 4: Coat and Dress the Fish

Pour the rich lemon garlic butter sauce evenly over and around the cod fillets, ensuring every piece is generously coated. Spoon some of the pool of sauce from the bottom of the dish back over the tops of the fish. Lay the fresh lemon slices directly on top of each cod fillet. Scatter a light pinch of crushed red pepper flakes across the top if you prefer a subtle hint of heat to balance the richness of the butter.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place the baking dish uncovered into the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 12 to 15 minutes. The exact cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of your cod fillets. Cod is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and easily flakes apart with a fork into opaque, tender segments. Avoid over-baking, as cod can dry out quickly if left in the oven too long.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove the baking dish from the oven. Garnish the warm fish immediately with freshly chopped flat-leaf parsley for a burst of vibrant color and fresh herbaceous flavor. Spoon the remaining pan juices heavily over the top of the fillets before serving.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Success

  • Choose the Right Fillets: Look for thick, firm cod fillets that have a clean, oceanic smell and a translucent white sheen. Avoid fillets that look dry, gray, or excessively watery.

  • Thawing Safely: If using frozen cod, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture and moisture retention.

  • Add a Golden Crust: If you prefer a lightly browned top, turn your oven to broil for the final 1 to 2 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on the dish so the garlic and butter do not burn.

  • Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with a bed of garlic butter rice, creamy mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, or a crisp green garden salad to soak up the luxurious sauce.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Note: Nutritional values are estimated approximations based on a recipe yielding 4 individual servings.

  • Calories: 285 kcal

  • Total Fat: 16g

    • Saturated Fat: 10g

  • Cholesterol: 115mg

  • Sodium: 340mg

  • Total Carbohydrates: 3g

    • Dietary Fiber: 1g

    • Sugars: 1g

  • Protein: 31g

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