Baked Lemon-Garlic Cod with Butter Sauce

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Bright, zesty, and wonderfully buttery—this baked lemon-garlic cod with butter sauce is the kind of dinner that feels fancy but takes almost no effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or intimate dinners, this dish brings together the light flakiness of cod with a bold lemon-garlic infusion that’s irresistible.

Every bite melts in your mouth, drenched in a buttery sauce enhanced by fresh parsley and thin slices of lemon that roast to a golden hue. It’s healthy, it’s simple, and it pairs beautifully with roasted veggies or a scoop of fluffy rice. When you’re craving a seafood dish that feels both cozy and elegant, this one checks all the boxes.

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What Kind of Cod Should I Use?

Fresh Atlantic or Pacific cod fillets work beautifully in this recipe. Look for fillets that are firm, bright white, and have a clean scent. If using frozen cod, make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry to avoid excess water in the sauce. The recipe is quite forgiving, so even other mild white fish like haddock or pollock can substitute well.

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Ingredients for the Baked Lemon-Garlic Cod with Butter Sauce

Cod Fillets – The star of the show. Mild, flaky, and perfect for absorbing buttery, lemony flavor.

Lemon Slices + Juice – Adds brightness and a tangy punch that balances the richness of the butter.

Garlic (Minced) – Brings depth and that savory, aromatic punch that complements fish perfectly.

Butter – Creates the luscious, golden sauce that coats every bite.

Olive Oil – Helps the fish roast evenly and gives a slight fruitiness to the dish.

Fresh Parsley – Sprinkled on top for freshness and a pop of color.

Salt & Cracked Black Pepper – Essential seasoning to elevate and round out the flavors.

Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – A little kick if you love a bit of heat with your fish.

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How To Make the Baked Lemon-Garlic Cod with Butter Sauce

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Fish

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if using.

Step 2: Layer in the Flavor

Arrange the cod fillets in the baking dish. Drizzle olive oil over the top, then scatter minced garlic evenly across the fish. Add the lemon slices on top and around the fillets.

Step 3: Make the Butter Sauce

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add a splash of lemon juice and a pinch more salt and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined, then pour this buttery mixture over the cod and lemon slices.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake the cod uncovered for 12 to 15 minutes, depending on thickness, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. Be careful not to overbake—cod cooks quickly!

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top. Serve hot with your favorite side dishes like steamed rice, garlic green beans, or roasted baby potatoes.

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How to Serve and Store Baked Lemon-Garlic Cod with Butter Sauce

Serve your baked lemon-garlic cod fresh out of the oven for the best flavor and texture. The buttery lemon sauce pairs beautifully with sides like roasted asparagus, mashed cauliflower, or a hearty slice of crusty bread to soak up every drop of sauce.

For a more filling meal, serve it over a bed of jasmine rice, quinoa, or creamy mashed potatoes. A chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon makes an excellent pairing.

To store leftovers, let the fish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the oven at 300°F until heated through, or use a skillet with a bit of extra butter to keep the fish moist.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the cod is fully cooked?

The cod is done when it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Avoid overbaking, as cod can dry out quickly.

Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning and baking.

What other herbs can I use besides parsley?

Dill, thyme, or chives also pair well with lemon and garlic. Feel free to mix it up depending on your preference.

Can I substitute another type of fish?

Yes! Haddock, halibut, or pollock are great alternatives that also bake well with this buttery lemon-garlic sauce.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this baked cod is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure any sides you serve are also gluten-free if needed.

Can I make this dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, substitute the butter with a vegan butter or use olive oil only. The flavor will still be delicious, just slightly less rich.

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Want More Seafood Ideas?

If you loved this baked lemon-garlic cod, here are a few more seafood recipes to explore and savor:

• Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna for something rich and indulgent.
• Baked Crab Legs in Butter Sauce when you’re craving that classic crab experience.
• Creamy Shrimp Chowder for a cozy, comforting bowl of warmth.
• Best Marinated Grilled Shrimp if you’re planning a summer grill night.
• Easy Creamy Polenta Shrimp Recipe when you want elegance with little effort.

These recipes bring out the best in seafood—whether you want comfort food, something elegant, or a dish made for sharing.

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Tried this cod recipe? I’d love to hear about your experience. Did you add capers, swap the herbs, or serve it with pasta?

Drop your results in the comments and let’s inspire each other in the kitchen. Questions, twists, or favorite pairings—share them all!

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