This lemon butter baked cod is fresh and zesty! It’s so simple to make, with just a few ingredients that come together for a tasty meal. The fish turns out perfectly flaky!
I love how the bright lemon flavor shines through, and it pairs wonderfully with rice or a salad. Plus, this dish is ready in no time—great for busy weeknights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cod fillets: Fresh cod is soft and flaky, but you can swap it for other white fish like haddock, tilapia, or even salmon if you prefer a richer flavor.
Butter: I love using real butter for its flavor, but you can use olive oil for a healthier option or if you’re dairy-free. Just keep in mind that it will change the taste slightly.
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice really brings brightness. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch, but fresh zest is ideal for the best flavor!
Dill: Dried dill is easy to find, but fresh dill has a more vibrant taste. You can also substitute with other herbs like thyme or parsley if you don’t have dill on hand.
Spinach: I like serving this with baby spinach for a light side, but feel free to use other leafy greens like kale or Swiss chard as alternatives. You can also skip the greens altogether if you’d like.
What’s the Ideal Method for Baking Cod?
Baking cod perfectly ensures it stays moist and tender. Here’s how to achieve that:
- Start by preheating your oven—this helps the fish cook evenly.
- Pat dry the fish with paper towels. This helps the lemon butter mixture stick better and reduces excess moisture.
- Keep the baking time short, around 12-15 minutes at 400°F. Fish cooks quickly, and you want it flaking, not drying out.
- Let the cod rest for a minute or two after baking for the best texture before serving.
Following these tips will ensure your baked cod is moist and delicious every time!
Easy Lemon Butter Baked Cod
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Cod:
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 3 tablespoons butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1 teaspoon dried dill or fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Paprika, a pinch (optional, for color)
- For Serving:
- Fresh baby spinach
- Mashed potatoes or your preferred side
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to bake. You’ll have a delicious meal ready in just about 25 minutes—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is important as it ensures an even cooking process. Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Lemon Butter Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, dill, parsley, salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir until well combined. This mixture will add a burst of flavor to your cod!
3. Arrange the Cod Fillets:
Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick and prevents excess moisture during baking. Place the fillets in the prepared baking dish, spaced apart.
4. Add the Lemon Butter Topping:
Spoon the lemon butter mixture evenly over each cod fillet, ensuring that each one is well coated. This will keep the fish moist and flavorful as it bakes.
5. Bake the Cod:
Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. The cod should be firm and flake easily with a fork when it’s done. Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking!
6. Sauté the Spinach:
While the cod is baking, you can prepare the baby spinach. In a pan, sauté the fresh spinach lightly with a little olive oil or butter until just wilted. This will only take a couple of minutes!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Plate the baked cod fillets on a bed of sautéed spinach, and serve with creamy mashed potatoes or any side dish you prefer. Garnish with extra chopped parsley and a squeeze of fresh lemon for an extra pop of brightness.
8. Final Touch:
Take a moment to enjoy the beautiful presentation of your dish—then dig in! The flavors are sure to impress your family or guests!
Enjoy your bright and buttery lemon baked cod, tender and flavorful, paired perfectly with wholesome sides!
FAQ for Easy Lemon Butter Baked Cod
Can I Use Frozen Cod for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cod! Just make sure to fully thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Pat it dry before proceeding with the recipe.
What Can I Substitute for Garlic?
If you need a substitute for garlic, you can use garlic powder—about 1/4 teaspoon will do. Alternatively, you could omit it altogether if you’re sensitive to garlic; the dish will still have great flavor from the lemon and herbs.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the cod in the microwave or oven gently with a splash of water to maintain moisture. Aim to reheat just until warm to prevent drying out the fish.
Can I Use Different Herbs?
Absolutely! If you don’t have dill, you can use fresh or dried parsley, thyme, or even oregano. Each will provide a slightly different but delicious flavor profile for the dish!
