In our home, weeknight dinners often need to be quick, healthy, and—most importantly—delicious. Finding recipes that tick all these boxes can sometimes feel like searching for a culinary unicorn. However, the Lemon Butter Baked Cod recipe has emerged as a true champion in our kitchen. From the very first time I prepared it, the aroma of lemon and butter filling the air was intoxicating. The simplicity of the preparation is a huge win for busy weeknights, yet the resulting dish tastes like something you’d order in a restaurant. My family, even the pickiest eaters, devoured it. The flaky, tender cod, infused with the bright citrusy notes of lemon and the rich, savory butter, was an instant hit. It’s become a regular feature on our menu, and I’m excited to share this incredibly easy and flavorful recipe with you, confident that it will become a beloved staple in your home too. Get ready to experience a dish that’s both effortless to make and utterly satisfying to eat.

Ingredients: The Foundation of Flavor

The beauty of this Lemon Butter Baked Cod recipe lies in its simplicity. You don’t need a pantry full of exotic spices or hard-to-find ingredients. Instead, it relies on a handful of fresh, high-quality components that work together harmoniously to create a dish that is far greater than the sum of its parts. Let’s break down each ingredient and understand why it’s crucial for achieving the best flavor and texture.

Fresh Cod Fillets (1.5 – 2 lbs): The star of the show, of course, is the cod itself. When it comes to seafood, freshness is paramount. Look for cod fillets that are firm, white, and have a mild, fresh scent. Avoid fillets that appear dull, discolored, or have a strong fishy odor, as these are signs of older fish. Fresh cod boasts a delicate, flaky texture that perfectly absorbs the lemon butter sauce. You can use skin-on or skinless fillets based on your preference; skin-on will add a bit more richness, while skinless will be slightly leaner. If fresh cod isn’t available, you can use frozen cod fillets, but ensure they are fully thawed before cooking and pat them dry to remove excess moisture.
Unsalted Butter (1/2 cup, or 1 stick): Butter is the luscious backbone of the sauce, providing richness, depth, and a velvety texture. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the overall saltiness of the dish and ensure that the other flavors are not overshadowed by excessive salt. The butter will melt and emulsify with the lemon juice and seasonings, creating a decadent sauce that coats the cod beautifully. For a slightly richer flavor, you can use European-style butter, which has a higher butterfat content.
Fresh Lemon Juice (3 tablespoons): Lemon juice is the bright, zesty counterpoint to the richness of the butter. It adds a vibrant acidity that cuts through the fat and enhances the natural flavor of the cod. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is always preferred over bottled juice for its superior flavor and aroma. The lemon juice also helps to tenderize the fish slightly and keeps it moist during baking. You can adjust the amount of lemon juice to your liking; if you prefer a more pronounced lemon flavor, feel free to add a bit more.
Garlic (2-3 cloves, minced): Garlic is a foundational flavor enhancer in countless cuisines, and it plays a crucial role in this recipe. Minced garlic adds a savory, aromatic depth to the lemon butter sauce that complements both the cod and the lemon beautifully. Fresh garlic is essential for the best flavor; avoid using pre-minced garlic from a jar, as it often lacks the pungent aroma and fresh taste of freshly minced cloves. You can adjust the amount of garlic to your preference; if you love garlic, feel free to add an extra clove or two.
Dried Parsley (1 tablespoon): Parsley adds a touch of herbaceousness and visual appeal to the dish. While fresh parsley is lovely, dried parsley works perfectly well in this baked cod recipe and is a convenient pantry staple. Dried parsley infuses its flavor into the sauce as it bakes, contributing a subtle earthy and slightly peppery note. If you prefer to use fresh parsley, use about 3 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley and sprinkle it over the cod after it’s baked for a brighter, fresher flavor and vibrant green garnish.
Salt (1 teaspoon, or to taste): Salt is essential for enhancing the flavors of all the other ingredients. It brings out the natural sweetness of the cod, balances the acidity of the lemon juice, and complements the richness of the butter and garlic. Start with 1 teaspoon of salt and adjust to your taste. Remember that you can always add more salt at the end, but it’s difficult to remove it if you add too much initially. Kosher salt or sea salt are excellent choices for this recipe.
Black Pepper (1/2 teaspoon, or to taste): Black pepper adds a subtle warmth and a hint of spice that complements the lemon and garlic. Freshly ground black pepper is always preferred for its more robust flavor and aroma. Start with ½ teaspoon and adjust to your taste. Like salt, you can always add more pepper at the end if needed.
Optional: Red Pepper Flakes (1/4 teaspoon, or to taste): For those who enjoy a touch of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick that balances the richness of the butter and the acidity of the lemon. This is entirely optional, but it can add an extra layer of complexity to the flavor profile. Start with ¼ teaspoon or less, especially if you are sensitive to spice, and adjust to your preference.

Instructions: Baking to Perfection in Minutes

One of the greatest appeals of this Lemon Butter Baked Cod recipe is its simplicity. It requires minimal hands-on time and is incredibly straightforward to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a delicious and healthy meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Follow these easy steps to bake your cod to flaky, flavorful perfection:

Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is ideal for baking cod, ensuring it cooks through quickly and evenly without drying out. While the oven is preheating, lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil. Choose a baking dish that is just large enough to hold the cod fillets in a single layer without overcrowding. Overcrowding can cause the cod to steam instead of bake, resulting in a less desirable texture.
Prepare the Lemon Butter Sauce: In a small, microwave-safe bowl or a saucepan, melt the unsalted butter. If using a microwave, melt the butter in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until it is completely melted. If using a saucepan, melt the butter over low heat, being careful not to let it brown. Once the butter is melted, whisk in the fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. If you are using red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, add them at this stage as well. Stir the sauce well to combine all the ingredients and ensure they are evenly distributed. The aroma at this stage is already incredibly inviting!
Arrange Cod Fillets in Baking Dish: Place the cod fillets in the prepared baking dish in a single layer. Ensure that the fillets are not overlapping, as this can hinder even cooking. If you are using skin-on cod fillets, you can place them skin-side down or skin-side up, depending on your preference. Skin-side down will result in slightly crispier skin, while skin-side up will keep the skin softer.
Pour Lemon Butter Sauce Over Cod: Pour the prepared lemon butter sauce evenly over the cod fillets. Make sure that each fillet is generously coated with the sauce, as this is what will infuse the cod with flavor and keep it moist during baking. You can use a spoon to gently distribute the sauce if needed, ensuring it reaches every part of the fish.
Bake the Cod: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The exact baking time will depend on the thickness of your cod fillets. Thinner fillets will cook faster, while thicker fillets may require a few extra minutes. To check for doneness, gently flake the cod with a fork at the thickest part. If it flakes easily and is opaque throughout, it is cooked through. Avoid overbaking the cod, as this can make it dry and tough. The goal is to achieve tender, flaky, and moist cod.
Optional: Broil for a Golden Finish (Optional): If you desire a slightly golden and caramelized top on your cod, you can broil it for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking. Turn the oven to broil on high and carefully watch the cod as it broils. Broiling can happen very quickly, so keep a close eye on it to prevent burning. Broiling will add a beautiful color and a slightly crispy edge to the top of the cod, enhancing its visual appeal and adding a touch of textural contrast.
Serve Immediately: Once the cod is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and serve immediately. The aroma will be irresistible, and the cod will be at its peak flavor and texture when served hot right out of the oven. Garnish with fresh lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh parsley (if desired) for an extra touch of freshness and visual appeal.

Nutrition Facts: A Healthy and Delicious Choice

Lemon Butter Baked Cod is not only incredibly delicious but also a remarkably healthy meal choice. Cod is a lean white fish that is packed with protein and essential nutrients, making it a fantastic addition to a balanced diet. The simple lemon butter sauce, while adding flavor and richness, can be kept relatively light by using a moderate amount of butter and focusing on fresh, wholesome ingredients.

Servings: 4

Approximate Calories Per Serving: 250-300 calories (This is an estimate and can vary based on portion size and specific ingredients used.)

Per Serving (Approximate Values):

Protein: 30-35 grams (Cod is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle building and repair, as well as overall satiety.)
Fat: 10-15 grams (Primarily healthy fats from butter and fish oils. Can be adjusted by reducing butter amount.)
Saturated Fat: 6-8 grams (From butter. Can be reduced by using less butter or substituting part of the butter with olive oil for a healthier fat profile.)
Cholesterol: 100-120 mg (From cod and butter.)
Sodium: 400-500 mg (Can be adjusted by controlling salt added. Using low-sodium butter can also help reduce sodium content.)
Carbohydrates: 1-2 grams (Primarily from lemon juice and garlic. Very low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for low-carb diets.)
Fiber: 0 grams
Sugar: 0-1 gram (Naturally occurring sugars in lemon juice and garlic.)

Vitamins and Minerals (Cod is a good source of):

Vitamin B12
Vitamin D
Selenium
Phosphorus
Niacin

Note: These nutrition facts are estimates and can vary depending on the specific ingredients used, portion sizes, and cooking methods. For more accurate nutritional information, you can use online nutrition calculators and input the exact amounts of ingredients you use.

Preparation Time: Quick and Effortless

The minimal preparation time is another reason why Lemon Butter Baked Cod is such a weeknight winner. From start to finish, you can have this delicious and healthy meal on the table in under 30 minutes.

Prep Time: 10 minutes (This includes gathering ingredients, mincing garlic, juicing lemon, and preparing the lemon butter sauce.)
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes (Baking time in the oven, depending on fillet thickness.)
Total Time: 22-25 minutes

This quick preparation time makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you want a wholesome and flavorful dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s also a great recipe for beginner cooks or anyone looking for a simple and reliable fish dish.

How to Serve: Completing Your Meal

Lemon Butter Baked Cod is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a wide variety of side dishes. Its bright, savory flavors complement both light and hearty accompaniments, making it easy to create a balanced and satisfying meal. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your Lemon Butter Baked Cod experience:

Classic Sides:
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or green beans are excellent choices. The roasted vegetables provide a nice textural contrast to the flaky cod and complement the lemon butter flavors beautifully. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper and roast alongside the cod or separately.
- Steamed Rice or Quinoa: Simple steamed white rice, brown rice, or quinoa are perfect for soaking up the flavorful lemon butter sauce. These grains provide a healthy carbohydrate component to the meal and create a satisfying base for the cod.
- Mashed Potatoes or Cauliflower Mash: Creamy mashed potatoes or a lighter cauliflower mash offer a comforting and classic side dish that pairs wonderfully with the cod and sauce. The richness of the mash complements the brightness of the lemon butter.
Fresh and Light Options:
- Lemon Herb Couscous or Salad: A light and refreshing couscous salad with lemon, herbs, and vegetables or a simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette enhances the citrusy notes of the cod and adds a fresh element to the meal.
- Garlic Bread or Crusty Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread or crusty bread for dipping into the delicious lemon butter sauce. The bread soaks up the sauce beautifully and adds a satisfying carbohydrate element.
- Caprese Salad: A Caprese salad with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil provides a light, vibrant, and colorful side that complements the richness of the cod.
Elevated Pairings:
- Risotto: Creamy lemon risotto or asparagus risotto would be a more elegant side dish that pairs wonderfully with the baked cod, creating a restaurant-worthy meal.
- Pasta with Lemon Butter Sauce: For a heartier meal, serve the baked cod over pasta tossed with a simple lemon butter sauce and fresh herbs. This creates a cohesive and flavorful dish.
- Roasted Potatoes with Herbs: Roasted potatoes with rosemary, thyme, or oregano offer a more substantial and flavorful potato side dish that complements the cod beautifully.
Garnishes:
- Fresh Lemon Wedges: Always serve with fresh lemon wedges for squeezing extra lemon juice over the cod just before serving. This brightens the flavors and adds a final touch of freshness.
- Fresh Parsley or Dill: Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley or dill for a pop of color and fresh herbaceousness. These herbs complement the lemon and garlic flavors and add visual appeal.
- Red Pepper Flakes (for garnish): If you like a touch of heat, sprinkle a few extra red pepper flakes over the finished dish for a visual and flavor boost.

Additional Tips for Perfect Lemon Butter Baked Cod

To ensure your Lemon Butter Baked Cod is consistently delicious and perfectly cooked every time, here are five additional tips to keep in mind:

Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Dish: Ensure that the cod fillets are arranged in a single layer in the baking dish without overcrowding. Overcrowding can cause the fish to steam instead of bake, resulting in a less desirable texture and uneven cooking. If necessary, use two baking dishes or bake in batches to ensure proper spacing.
Pat the Cod Fillets Dry: Before placing the cod fillets in the baking dish, gently pat them dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture will help the lemon butter sauce adhere better to the fish and promote browning if you choose to broil it at the end. Drying the fillets also helps to prevent the fish from becoming watery during baking.
Adjust Baking Time Based on Thickness: The baking time of 12-15 minutes is a guideline and may need to be adjusted based on the thickness of your cod fillets. Thinner fillets will cook faster, while thicker fillets may require a few extra minutes. Always check for doneness by flaking the cod with a fork at the thickest part. It should flake easily and be opaque throughout when cooked through.
Use High-Quality Ingredients: Since this recipe relies on simple ingredients, using high-quality components makes a significant difference in the final flavor. Use fresh cod fillets, fresh lemon juice, fresh garlic, and good quality butter for the best results. The better the quality of your ingredients, the more flavorful and delicious your baked cod will be.
Customize the Flavor Profile: While the basic Lemon Butter Baked Cod is delicious as is, feel free to customize the flavor profile to your liking. Experiment with adding other herbs and spices to the sauce, such as thyme, oregano, dill, or chives. You can also add a splash of white wine to the sauce for extra depth of flavor. Consider adding a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top before baking for a cheesy variation. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are five frequently asked questions about Lemon Butter Baked Cod to help you master this recipe and address common queries:

Q1: Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?

A: Yes, you can use frozen cod fillets. However, it is essential to thaw them completely before baking. The best way to thaw frozen cod is to place it in the refrigerator overnight. If you need to thaw it quickly, you can place the sealed frozen cod fillets in a bowl of cold water for about 30-60 minutes, changing the water every 15-20 minutes. Once thawed, pat the fillets thoroughly dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture before baking.

Q2: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: It is best to bake and serve Lemon Butter Baked Cod fresh for the best flavor and texture. However, you can prepare the lemon butter sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you are ready to cook, simply pour the sauce over the cod fillets and bake as directed. Cooked cod is best enjoyed immediately, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until heated through, but be aware that reheating may slightly dry out the fish.

Q3: Can I use olive oil instead of butter?

A: Yes, you can substitute olive oil for butter if you prefer a dairy-free or lighter option. Olive oil will provide a different flavor profile compared to butter, but it will still create a delicious and healthy dish. Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor. Keep in mind that butter provides a richness and creamy texture that olive oil won’t fully replicate.

Q4: How do I know when the cod is cooked through?

A: The best way to check if cod is cooked through is to gently flake it with a fork at the thickest part. If the cod flakes easily and is opaque throughout, it is cooked through. The internal temperature of cooked fish should reach 145°F (63°C). Avoid overbaking the cod, as this can make it dry and tough. It is better to slightly undercook it than overcook it, as the residual heat will continue to cook the fish slightly after it is removed from the oven.

Q5: Can I add other vegetables to bake with the cod?

A: Absolutely! You can easily add vegetables to the baking dish along with the cod to create a complete one-pan meal. Vegetables that bake well with cod include asparagus, broccoli florets, green beans, cherry tomatoes, sliced bell peppers, and thinly sliced onions. Toss the vegetables with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper and arrange them around the cod fillets in the baking dish. Adjust the baking time slightly if necessary to ensure the vegetables are tender and the cod is cooked through. Adding vegetables makes this recipe even more nutritious and convenient.