Name: Broiled Cod with Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon paprika; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter; 3 cloves garlic (minced); 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley; lemon wedges for serving

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If you’re craving a lightning-fast, elegant seafood dinner with tons of flavor, this Broiled Cod with Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce Recipe will instantly become your new go-to. The cod broils in minutes until beautifully tender, while that dreamy sauce brings a zingy, garlicky richness that’s completely irresistible. Even if you’re new to cooking fish, this dish is practically foolproof, and it always impresses—whether you’re whipping it up on a weeknight or hosting friends.

Broiled Cod with Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Broiled Cod with Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce Recipe is that it relies on a handful of simple, vibrant ingredients that work magic together. Each one matters—the cod is succulent and mild, the lemon and butter offer brightness and richness, and those aromatics tie it all together for a restaurant-level meal in under 30 minutes.

Cod fillets (4, about 6 oz each): Choose fresh or well-thawed fillets for the best flaky texture and gentle flavor.
Olive oil (2 tablespoons): A quick brush keeps the fish moist and helps the seasonings cling.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Just enough to enhance the cod’s natural sweetness without overpowering it.
Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a subtle kick and earthiness to balance the buttery sauce.
Paprika (1/4 teaspoon): For a hint of warmth and a lovely golden finish on the cod.
Unsalted butter (3 tablespoons): Forms the core of that rich, glossy lemon garlic sauce.
Garlic, minced (3 cloves): Fresh garlic makes all the difference—don’t skimp!
Fresh lemon juice (2 tablespoons): Use real lemons for irresistible tartness and zing.
Lemon zest (1 teaspoon): Brings a fragrant citrus aroma that wakes up the whole dish.
Chopped fresh parsley (1 tablespoon): Adds grassy freshness and a pop of color right at the finish.
Lemon wedges for serving: Squeeze over at the table for an extra lemon burst with each bite.

How to Make Broiled Cod with Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Broiler and Cod

Start by preheating your broiler to high and arranging an oven rack about six inches from the heating element. While it heats up, pat your cod fillets dry with paper towels—this helps the seasoning stick and keeps the fish from steaming instead of broiling. Place the fillets, skin-side down if applicable, on a foil-lined baking sheet for easy cleanup later.

Step 2: Season the Fillets

Brush both sides of each cod fillet with a touch of olive oil, then sprinkle on the salt, black pepper, and paprika. The oil helps the fish develop a slight crust and the paprika gives a golden hue—just another reason to fall in love with this Broiled Cod with Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce Recipe.

Step 3: Broil the Cod

Slide the pan beneath the broiler and cook for 5 to 7 minutes. Be sure to check the fish at the 5-minute mark—it should flake easily with a fork and turn opaque in the center. This method ensures your cod stays juicy so the final dish is anything but dry or tough.

Step 4: Prepare the Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce

While the cod cooks, make that irresistible sauce. Gently melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and let it cook for 1 to 2 minutes until you can really smell its fragrance but before it browns. Take the pan off the heat, then stir in the lemon juice and zest, swirling everything together until silky and bright.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Spoon the warm lemon butter garlic sauce generously over each broiled cod fillet. Shower with chopped parsley to add vivid color and freshness. Finally, pile some lemon wedges on the side so everyone can amp up the citrus to taste—the signature of this Broiled Cod with Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce Recipe is those fresh finishing touches.

How to Serve Broiled Cod with Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of bright green parsley does more than just look pretty—it brings fresh flavor and a hint of crunch. Lemon wedges on each plate let diners dial up the citrus as they like, which is especially delightful with the rich, buttery sauce. For a little extra charm, try a touch of finely shaved lemon zest or a sprinkle of paprika right before serving.

Side Dishes

This dish absolutely shines alongside fluffy rice pilaf, herby quinoa, or a simple medley of roasted seasonal vegetables. The sauce is so craveable, you’ll want something to soak it up (think: crusty bread to swipe every last drop). For a lighter plate, pair with a crisp green salad and perhaps some steamed asparagus or broccoli.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re feeling fancy, present each fillet on an individual plate with a fan of lemon slices and a drizzle of sauce in an artistic pattern. Or, for a family-style dinner, arrange the cod on a serving platter, topped with parsley and extra lemon, so everyone can help themselves. Take the Broiled Cod with Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce Recipe picnic-style by tucking the fillets into warm tortillas for luscious fish tacos with a citrusy twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have extra, let the cod cool slightly, then transfer to an airtight container. Spoon over any remaining sauce and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keeping the fish and sauce together helps maintain maximum moisture and flavor.

Freezing

While freshly broiled cod is always best, you can freeze leftovers for up to one month if needed. Wrap the cooled fillets tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. For ideal results, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To gently reheat, arrange the cod and sauce in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a low oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit until just heated through, about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving, which can make the fish rubbery. A squeeze of fresh lemon after reheating perks everything back up.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cod fillets for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to fully thaw the cod in the refrigerator overnight and pat it dry thoroughly before seasoning. This helps the fish brown nicely and prevents excess moisture under the broiler.

What other fish can I substitute for cod?

This Broiled Cod with Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce Recipe works beautifully with similar white fish like haddock or halibut. You may need to adjust the broiling time slightly depending on the thickness of the fillets.

Is this recipe gluten free?

Yes! All the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten free, so it’s perfect for anyone avoiding gluten. Just ensure your sides and any bread you serve alongside also fit your dietary needs.

Can I add wine to the lemon butter garlic sauce?

Certainly! Add a splash (about 2 tablespoons) of dry white wine to the pan after sautéing the garlic, simmer for a minute to let it reduce, then stir in lemon juice and zest. This trick gives the sauce extra depth and a restaurant-worthy finish.

How do I know when the cod is perfectly cooked?

Look for the fillets to become opaque and for the flesh to flake easily with a fork. The fish should still feel moist and tender—if it’s tough or dry, it’s likely a little overcooked. It usually only takes 5 to 7 minutes under the broiler, so keep a close eye!

Final Thoughts

Bursting with fresh flavors in every bite, this Broiled Cod with Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce Recipe is proof that simple ingredients can become something truly special. It’s a joyful, easy meal to share with family or friends—give it a try and let it become a staple in your kitchen, too!

Broiled Cod with Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce Recipe

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4.8 from 7 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Delight your taste buds with this easy and flavorful Broiled Cod with Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce recipe. Perfectly seasoned cod fillets topped with a luscious lemon butter sauce, this dish is a quick and healthy option for a seafood dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Cod Fillets:

4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)

Seasoning:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon paprika

Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce:

3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic (minced)
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
lemon wedges for serving

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Instructions

Preheat the Broiler: Preheat the broiler to high and position an oven rack about 6 inches from the heat source.
Prepare the Cod: Pat the cod fillets dry, place them on a foil-lined baking sheet, brush with olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Broil the Cod: Broil the cod for 5–7 minutes until flaky and opaque.
Make the Sauce: Melt butter, sauté garlic, add lemon juice and zest, then spoon over the cooked cod.
Serve: Garnish with parsley and lemon wedges before serving.