Lemon Butter Baked Cod Recipe
If you’ve been on the hunt for a dish that feels like sunshine on a plate, look no further than this Lemon Butter Baked Cod Recipe. It’s wonderfully bright, buttery, and flaky all at once, making every bite a celebration of simple, fresh flavors. This recipe captures the magic of tender cod fillets bathed in luscious lemon butter and baked to golden perfection—a real crowd-pleaser that’s as easy as it is delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Lemon Butter Baked Cod Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays an essential role, bringing out the delicate qualities of the cod and creating a harmonious balance of tangy, buttery, and savory notes.
- 2 lb cod fillet (or any white fish): Choose firm, fresh fillets to ensure flaky, moist results after baking.
- 1/4 cup butter or margarine: This provides richness and helps the lemon juice coat the fish beautifully for maximum flavor.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice: Gives the dish its bright, refreshing zing without overpowering the fish.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Coats the fish, helping to create a light, crisp exterior that locks in moisture.
- Dash(es) paprika: Adds subtle warmth and a touch of color for a more appealing presentation.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Crucial for enhancing and balancing all the flavors perfectly.
How to Make Lemon Butter Baked Cod Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Cod and Make the Lemon Butter
Start by cutting your cod fillets into convenient serving sizes, which ensures even cooking and easy plating. While the fish is getting ready, melt the butter slowly and mix it with fresh lemon juice. This luscious lemon butter sauce is the heart of the recipe and will infuse the cod with bright, buttery goodness.
Step 2: Coat the Fish
Next, take each piece of cod and dip it into the lemon butter mixture, letting it soak up those flavors. Then, coat the fish lightly with the all-purpose flour seasoned with salt and pepper. This coating will create a delicate crust when baked that seals in the juices while adding a subtle texture contrast.
Step 3: Bake Until Golden and Flaky
Arrange the coated fish pieces neatly in a baking dish. Drizzle the remaining lemon butter sauce over the top, then sprinkle a gentle dash of paprika for a pop of color and warmth. Bake until the cod turns golden brown and flakes easily with a fork—this step locks in moisture and delivers the perfect flaky texture that makes this Lemon Butter Baked Cod Recipe so irresistible.
How to Serve Lemon Butter Baked Cod Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or dill work beautifully to brighten the dish even further and add an inviting splash of green. A few thin lemon slices nestled alongside the fish add visual appeal and boost freshness with every bite.
Side Dishes
This baked cod pairs wonderfully with light, simple accompaniments. Think buttery mashed potatoes, garlic-roasted asparagus, or a crisp mixed greens salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette. These sides complement without overwhelming the delicate fish flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a bit of extra flair, try serving your Lemon Butter Baked Cod Recipe over a bed of fluffy couscous or quinoa mixed with fresh herbs. Or, place the baked cod on top of warm, sautéed spinach for a restaurant-quality look and feel right at home.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover cod in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 2 days, retaining most of its moisture and flavor if reheated gently.
Freezing
While baking fresh is always best, you can freeze cooked cod if needed. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil or use a freezer-safe container. Consume within 1 month for the best texture and freshness once thawed.
Reheating
To gently reheat your Lemon Butter Baked Cod Recipe, warm it in the oven at a low temperature (around 300°F) for 10-15 minutes. This prevents the fish from drying out and helps maintain the buttery texture you love.
FAQs
Can I use other types of white fish for this recipe?
Absolutely! While cod is perfect for its mild flavor and flakiness, other white fish like haddock, halibut, or pollock work wonderfully with the same lemon butter treatment.
Is margarine a good substitute for butter in this recipe?
Yes, margarine can be used if you prefer or need a dairy-free option. Just keep in mind it may slightly alter the richness and flavor compared to real butter.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time before baking?
You can coat the cod with flour and lemon butter mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it for a short period, but it’s best to bake it fresh for the best texture and flavor.
How do I know when the cod is fully cooked?
The cod is done when it turns opaque, flakes easily with a fork, and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. This Lemon Butter Baked Cod Recipe ensures it stays moist and tender without overcooking.
Can I add garlic or other spices to the recipe?
Definitely! A little minced garlic or herbs like thyme or rosemary can add depth to the flavor profile, complementing the lemon and butter beautifully without overpowering the delicate cod.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Butter Baked Cod Recipe is one of those special dishes that feels effortless yet impressive every time. With fresh, simple ingredients and an easy technique, it’s perfect for weeknights or when you want to treat yourself to something comforting and delicious. Give it a try, and let the bright, buttery flavors win you over just like it did for me!
Print
Lemon Butter Baked Cod Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Lemon Butter Baked Cod recipe offers a tender and flaky white fish fillet infused with a rich lemon butter sauce, lightly coated in seasoned flour and baked to golden perfection. It’s a simple, flavorful, and healthy dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant meal.
Ingredients
Fish
- 2 lb cod fillet (any white fish)
Butter Sauce
- 1/4 cup butter or margarine
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Breading and Seasoning
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- Dash(es) paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the fish and lemon butter sauce: Cut the cod fillets into individual serving sizes. In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter or margarine gently and mix in the lemon juice until fully combined to create a tangy lemon butter sauce.
- Coat the fish: Dip each cod piece into the lemon butter sauce, ensuring it is well coated. Then, dredge the coated fish in the all-purpose flour seasoned with salt and pepper to lightly cover each piece. Arrange the coated fish pieces in a single layer in a baking dish.
- Bake the cod: Drizzle any remaining lemon butter sauce evenly over the fish. Sprinkle the top with a dash of paprika for color and subtle flavor. Bake the fish in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is golden brown, cooked through, and flakes easily with a fork.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add minced garlic or fresh herbs like dill or parsley to the butter sauce.
- Ensure not to overcook the fish to keep it moist and tender.
- Serve with steamed vegetables or a light salad for a balanced meal.
- Use fresh cod or any firm white fish such as haddock or pollock as alternatives.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
