Description
Light, flaky, and flavorful, this Lemon Butter Baked Cod is an easy and elegant seafood dish with a zesty citrus twist. Ready in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients
-
4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
-
4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
-
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
-
1 tsp lemon zest
-
2 cloves garlic, minced
-
1 tsp paprika
-
½ tsp salt
-
½ tsp black pepper
-
1 tsp dried oregano (or fresh, finely chopped)
-
½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
-
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
-
Lemon slices (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Prepare the Butter Mixture
In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, paprika, salt, black pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Step 3: Coat the Cod Fillets
Pat the cod fillets dry with a paper towel. Arrange them in the prepared baking dish. Pour the lemon butter mixture evenly over the fillets, ensuring they are well coated.
Step 4: Bake the Cod
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time may vary depending on fillet thickness.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve immediately with lemon slices on the side.
Notes
-
Use a Different Fish – Swap cod for haddock, tilapia, or halibut.
-
Make it Dairy-Free – Use olive oil instead of butter.
-
Add More Herbs – Try thyme, dill, or basil for extra flavor.
-
Spice It Up – Increase red pepper flakes or add cayenne pepper.
-
Make it Crispy – Sprinkle with a light coating of breadcrumbs before baking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: lemon butter cod, baked cod recipe, easy seafood dish, healthy cod recipe, quick baked fish