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Lemon Butter Baked Cod

Lemon Butter Baked Cod

Simple, elegant, and packed with zesty flavor, this Lemon Butter Baked Cod is your new go-to weeknight dinner!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Servings 4
Calories 220 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Cod:

  • 4 cod fillets 5–6 oz each, fresh or thawed
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • 1 tsp paprika or smoked paprika for extra depth

For the Lemon Butter Sauce:

  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter melted
  • 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or dill/chives as alternative

Instructions
 

Preheat Oven:

  • Preheat to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment for easy cleanup.

Season Cod:

  • Pat cod dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.
  • Pro Tip: Drying ensures better browning and flavor absorption.
  • Make Lemon Butter Sauce:
  • Combine melted butter, lemon juice, garlic, and lemon zest in a bowl. Stir until well mixed and fragrant.

Assemble in Dish:

  • Lay seasoned cod fillets in baking dish. Pour sauce evenly over each piece. Spoon any extra on top.

Bake:

  • Bake for 12–15 minutes, until cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
  • Visual Tip: Fish should puff slightly and separate into large flakes.

Garnish & Serve:

  • Top with chopped parsley and optional lemon slices. Serve hot with your favorite sides.

Notes

Make It Your Own:

  • Mediterranean Style: Add cherry tomatoes, olives, and feta before baking.
  • Spicy Cajun Cod: Use Cajun seasoning + cayenne instead of paprika.
  • Lemon Herb Crusted: Add herbed breadcrumbs with lemon zest for a crispy top.
  • Dairy-Free: Use olive oil or vegan butter instead of butter.
  • Asian Twist: Sub lemon with yuzu juice; add soy sauce and sesame oil.

Pairing Suggestions:

Serve with:
  • Garlic mashed potatoes
  • Roasted asparagus or broccoli
  • Couscous or herbed rice
  • Fresh garden salad with vinaigrette

Storage:

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
  • Gently reheat in the oven or microwave with extra butter or a splash of broth.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 2gProtein: 25gFat: 12g
Keyword Lemon Butter Baked Cod, Easy Baked Fish
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