Baked Lemon-Garlic Cod with Butter Sauce

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When I’m craving something light, flavorful, and satisfying, this Baked Lemon-Garlic Cod with Butter Sauce always hits the mark. The simplicity of this dish is what makes it so special—flaky cod fillets gently baked in a bright, garlicky lemon butter sauce that seeps into every bite. It’s the kind of meal that looks elegant but comes together with almost no effort, perfect for both weeknight dinners and when you want to impress guests.

I love how the citrus and garlic flavors meld into the rich butter, creating a silky sauce that elevates the mild sweetness of the cod. This dish is a lifesaver when I want something that feels fresh and wholesome but still delivers comfort. Plus, it’s ready in under 30 minutes, and that’s always a win in my kitchen.

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Why You’ll Love This Baked Lemon-Garlic Cod with Butter Sauce

• Quick and easy: Minimal prep and cleanup—ready in under 30 minutes.
• Flavorful but light: The lemon, garlic, and butter create a luxurious yet bright sauce.
• Healthy and high-protein: Cod is low in fat and packed with lean protein.
• Versatile: Works beautifully with veggies, grains, or salads.
• Perfect for any occasion: Elegant enough for guests, easy enough for everyday meals.

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What Kind of Cod Should I Use?

Fresh cod is always my first choice for this recipe. It has a mild flavor and a tender, flaky texture that pairs beautifully with the lemon-garlic butter. If fresh isn’t available, high-quality frozen cod works just as well—just be sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry to avoid excess moisture diluting the sauce.

If you’re at the market, look for thick-cut fillets that are bright white with no fishy odor. Atlantic or Pacific cod are both great options. If you can get wild-caught, even better for flavor and texture.

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Options for Substitutions

This dish is surprisingly flexible, and you can easily swap ingredients without sacrificing taste:

• Fish: Try haddock, halibut, or sea bass if cod isn’t available—they all bake well and soak up the lemony butter beautifully.
• Butter: Use ghee or olive oil for a dairy-free or lighter version.
• Garlic: If fresh garlic is too sharp for you, roasted garlic or garlic powder can be a gentler substitute.
• Lemon: Lime will give you a slightly different but still fresh citrus twist.
• Herbs: Fresh parsley is classic, but you can also try dill, thyme, or chives depending on your mood.

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Ingredients for Baked Lemon-Garlic Cod with Butter Sauce

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a key role in building its bright, buttery flavor profile:

• Cod Fillets
  The star of the dish—mild, tender, and flaky, cod absorbs the buttery lemon sauce perfectly.
• Unsalted Butter
  Adds richness and depth to the sauce without overpowering the delicate fish.
• Fresh Garlic
  Brings a bold, savory punch that balances the lemon’s acidity.
• Lemon Juice + Lemon Slices
  The juice brightens the dish, while the slices add visual appeal and infuse extra citrus flavor during baking.
• Olive Oil
  Helps brown the top of the cod and adds a smooth finish to the sauce.
• Fresh Parsley
  Sprinkled on top for a pop of color and freshness—it lightens the richness of the butter.
• Salt and Cracked Black Pepper
  Simple seasonings that bring everything to life without stealing the spotlight.
• Paprika (optional)
  Adds a touch of warmth and color for a more vibrant presentation.

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Step 1: Prep the Cod Fillets

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture—this helps them bake evenly and keeps the sauce from getting watered down. Lightly season both sides with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of paprika if you’re using it.

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Step 2: Make the Lemon-Garlic Butter Sauce

In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. Stir in the minced garlic, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and a tablespoon of olive oil. Whisk everything together until smooth and fragrant.

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Step 3: Assemble the Dish

Place the cod fillets in a lightly greased baking dish. Pour the lemon-garlic butter sauce evenly over the fillets. Arrange thin slices of lemon on top of each piece for extra flavor and a beautiful presentation.

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Step 4: Bake the Cod

Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 15–18 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets. The cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork and turns opaque all the way through.

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Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, spoon some of the buttery sauce from the baking dish over the top of each fillet. Sprinkle generously with chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately while hot and fragrant.

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How Long to Cook Baked Lemon-Garlic Cod with Butter Sauce

Cod cooks quickly, which is one of the reasons I love using it. At 400°F (200°C), it typically takes 15 to 18 minutes depending on the thickness of the fillets. You’ll know it’s perfectly cooked when the flesh turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Avoid overcooking—cod can become dry fast if left in the oven too long.

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Tips for Perfect Baked Lemon-Garlic Cod with Butter Sauce

• Pat the cod dry before seasoning to prevent excess water in the dish.
• Use fresh lemon juice for the brightest flavor—bottled juice won’t give the same result.
• Add lemon slices on top before baking for both flavor and a beautiful look.
• Don’t skimp on the garlic—it mellows as it bakes and balances the lemon perfectly.
• Bake just until flaky—test the thickest part of the fillet with a fork.
• Spoon the sauce over the fillets after baking to boost moisture and richness.
• Use a ceramic or glass baking dish for even heat distribution and easy cleanup.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Using wet fish: If you skip patting the cod dry, it can release too much liquid while baking, watering down the sauce and leaving the fish mushy.
• Overbaking: Cod cooks fast—anything over 18 minutes can lead to dry, tough fillets.
• Skipping the seasoning: Cod is mild, so under-seasoning makes the dish bland. Salt, pepper, lemon, and garlic are key here.
• Pouring cold sauce on the fish: Warm the butter sauce slightly before pouring it over the cod. Cold sauce can solidify and create uneven flavor.
• Crowding the pan: If fillets are packed too tightly, they steam instead of bake. Give them space.
• Not preheating the oven: Starting with a cold oven means uneven cooking and longer bake time.

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What to Serve With Baked Lemon-Garlic Cod with Butter Sauce?

Roasted Baby Potatoes

Crispy, golden potatoes pair perfectly with the buttery sauce and add a satisfying bite to the plate.

Steamed Broccoli or Asparagus

A simple, green vegetable side keeps the meal light and healthy, and the lemony sauce tastes amazing drizzled over them.

Herbed Rice or Quinoa

Absorbs every drop of the lemon-garlic butter—don’t let that sauce go to waste!

Warm Crusty Bread

Perfect for soaking up all that rich, garlicky sauce left on your plate.

Mixed Green Salad with Vinaigrette

Adds a refreshing, crisp element to balance the buttery richness of the cod.

Light Angel Hair Pasta

Toss it in a touch of olive oil and lemon zest—it’ll complement the flavors without overpowering them.

Garlic Mashed Cauliflower

A great low-carb option that still gives you that creamy, comforting texture.

Lemon Couscous

Echoes the citrus notes of the cod and creates a beautiful, zesty harmony on the plate.

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Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), store the baked cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Because fish dries out quickly, it’s best to reheat it gently:

• Oven: Reheat at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture.
• Stovetop: Gently warm in a covered skillet with a splash of water or lemon juice.
• Microwave: Not ideal, but if you’re in a hurry, use low power and short intervals to prevent overcooking.

Avoid freezing cooked cod, as the texture can become mushy when thawed.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 280
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Sugar: <1g
• Fiber: 0g
• Cholesterol: 90mg
• Sodium: 400mg

These values may vary slightly depending on your specific ingredients and portion sizes, but overall, this dish is low in carbs and high in lean protein—perfect for a healthy, balanced meal.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the cod is fully cooked?

The cod is done when it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Insert a fork into the thickest part—if it separates into large flakes, it’s ready.

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Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prep the sauce and season the cod ahead, but it’s best to bake it fresh. Reheated fish tends to dry out and lose texture.

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What if I only have frozen cod?

Frozen cod works great! Just make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge overnight and pat it dry before cooking.

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Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is highly recommended for the best flavor, but in a pinch, bottled lemon juice will do—just use slightly less, as it can be more acidic.

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Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you don’t serve it with gluten-containing sides like bread or pasta.

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How can I make this dish dairy-free?

Substitute the butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter. You’ll still get that rich, flavorful sauce with a lighter twist.

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Can I add vegetables to the baking dish?

Absolutely. Cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced zucchini, or asparagus can be added to the pan—they’ll roast alongside the cod and soak up the sauce.

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What wine pairs well with this dish?

A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or a lightly oaked Chardonnay pairs beautifully with the lemon and garlic flavors.

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Conclusion

This Baked Lemon-Garlic Cod with Butter Sauce is one of those rare recipes that checks all the boxes—it’s simple, elegant, fast, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re trying to eat lighter, serve a beautiful dinner, or just whip up something quick after work, this dish delivers every single time. It’s proof that a few fresh ingredients, when treated right, can create something truly delicious.

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