Lemon Garlic Butter Cod with Crispy Skin

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I never imagined such a simple dish could bring this much flavor to the table until I made this Lemon Garlic Butter Cod with Crispy Skin. It’s one of those meals that comes together so effortlessly but tastes like something you’d find at a fancy seafood restaurant. The contrast between the flaky, delicate cod and that irresistible crispy skin is just magic—add a drizzle of lemony, garlicky butter, and I’m telling you, it’s pure bliss on a plate.

This is my go-to when I want something quick and healthy, but still rich and satisfying. The cod soaks up the lemon garlic butter beautifully, and every bite feels comforting and fresh all at once. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or when I’m trying to impress guests with minimal effort, this recipe always delivers.

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Why You’ll Love This Lemon Garlic Butter Cod with Crispy Skin

• Crispy perfection – That skin crisps up beautifully in a hot pan, adding an amazing texture to the tender fish.
• Buttery garlic lemon sauce – A golden drizzle that ties the dish together with brightness and richness.
• Quick & easy – From prep to plate in under 30 minutes.
• Light but filling – Perfect for a healthy lunch or a comforting dinner without feeling too heavy.
• Restaurant-quality at home – Looks and tastes gourmet without needing complicated techniques.

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What Kind of Cod Should I Use?

When making Lemon Garlic Butter Cod with Crispy Skin, I always aim for fresh, skin-on fillets. The skin is what gives you that beautiful crisp texture, and fresh cod holds up well in the pan without falling apart. If you can find Atlantic or Pacific cod, both are excellent choices. Just make sure the fillets are thick and even—this helps them cook uniformly and stay moist inside.

Frozen cod also works well as long as it’s properly thawed and patted completely dry. Moisture is the enemy of crispy skin, so drying is a must before it hits the pan.

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Options for Substitutions

Don’t have cod? No worries—there are some great substitutes that still shine with this flavor profile.

• Halibut – A firm white fish that holds its shape well and has a mild taste.
• Sea bass – Deliciously tender with a slightly buttery flavor.
• Tilapia – A budget-friendly option that’s easy to find and takes on flavor nicely.
• Salmon – For a richer twist, salmon works wonderfully with lemon and garlic.

For the butter, feel free to use ghee or a vegan butter alternative if you’re dairy-free. And while fresh garlic and lemon are ideal, you can use garlic powder and bottled lemon juice in a pinch. Just keep in mind that fresh ingredients bring out the best in this dish.

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Ingredients for Lemon Garlic Butter Cod with Crispy Skin

Cod Fillets (skin-on)
The star of the show—mild, flaky, and perfect for achieving that golden crispy skin while staying tender and juicy inside.

Salt and Black Pepper
Essential for seasoning the fish and bringing out its natural flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.

Paprika
Adds a subtle smokiness and warm color to the crust of the cod, giving it that irresistible sear.

Garlic (minced)
A must-have for building depth and aroma in the lemon butter sauce. It infuses the butter with bold, savory flavor.

Lemon Juice
Brightens everything up and balances the richness of the butter. It adds a zesty tang that complements the fish perfectly.

Butter
Creates the luscious base for the sauce—melty, silky, and full of flavor that clings to every bite.

Olive Oil
Used for searing the cod and helping crisp the skin without burning. It also adds a fruity richness to the dish.

Fresh Parsley (chopped)
For that final touch of freshness, color, and a slight herbal lift that cuts through the richness of the butter.

Lemon Wedges (for serving)
A fresh squeeze of lemon right before serving takes everything to the next level.

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Step 1: Prep the Cod

Start by patting the cod fillets completely dry with paper towels—this is key to getting that skin crispy. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and a light sprinkle of paprika for color and subtle flavor.

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Step 2: Heat the Pan

Place a non-stick or stainless steel skillet over medium-high heat. Add a mix of olive oil and a small amount of butter. Let the pan get hot until the oil shimmers—this is your cue that it’s ready for the fish.

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Step 3: Sear Skin-Side Down

Carefully place the cod fillets skin-side down in the hot pan. Press gently with a spatula to prevent curling. Let it cook undisturbed for 4–5 minutes until the skin is golden and crisp.

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Step 4: Flip and Finish Cooking

Once the skin is crispy, flip the fillets gently and cook the other side for another 2–3 minutes, depending on thickness. The cod should be opaque and flake easily with a fork.

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Step 5: Make the Lemon Garlic Butter

While the cod finishes cooking, melt butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant (but not browned). Stir in the lemon juice and a pinch of salt. Let it simmer for a minute, then remove from heat.

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Step 6: Plate and Garnish

Place the cooked cod on a plate, drizzle with the lemon garlic butter, and sprinkle chopped parsley on top. Add a few lemon wedges on the side for an extra citrusy kick right before eating.

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How Long to Cook Lemon Garlic Butter Cod with Crispy Skin

Cooking cod is quick and straightforward, especially when using fillets that are about 1 to 1.5 inches thick.

• Skin-side down: 4–5 minutes on medium-high heat, until the skin is golden and crisp.
• Flip and cook the flesh side: 2–3 minutes more, until the fish is opaque and flakes easily.

The total cooking time should be around 7–8 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets. Just don’t overcook—cod can dry out quickly.

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Tips for Perfect Lemon Garlic Butter Cod with Crispy Skin

• Dry the fish well before seasoning to help the skin crisp properly. Moisture = soggy skin.
• Preheat the pan fully before adding the fish so the skin sears instantly.
• Don’t move the fish while it’s cooking skin-side down—let it develop a crust.
• Use a combination of butter and oil to prevent the butter from burning and to add flavor.
• Spoon the sauce over the fish just before serving, not while it’s in the pan, to keep the skin crispy.
• Fresh lemon juice and garlic make a huge difference—go fresh when possible.
• Use a fish spatula or a thin, flexible spatula to flip the fish without tearing the skin.
• Serve immediately while the skin is still hot and crisp for the best texture.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even though this recipe is simple, a few missteps can get in the way of that perfect crispy-skin, buttery flavor combo:

• Putting the fish in a cold pan – This prevents proper searing. Always preheat the pan first.
• Skipping the pat-dry step – Moisture on the skin causes steaming instead of crisping. Dry it thoroughly.
• Overcrowding the pan – It lowers the heat and leads to uneven cooking. Give each fillet space.
• Overcooking the cod – Cod cooks fast. Watch for opaque flesh and flaking to avoid dryness.
• Adding sauce in the pan – Pouring butter sauce directly into the pan can make the skin soggy. Drizzle it on just before serving.
• Using too much butter to sear – It burns easily. Combine it with olive oil for balance.
• Neglecting to press the fillets down – Pressing helps the skin make full contact with the pan and crisp evenly.
• Cooking at too low a temperature – You won’t get that golden sear. Medium-high heat is your friend.

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What to Serve With Lemon Garlic Butter Cod with Crispy Skin?

1. Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creamy and comforting, these soak up the lemon butter sauce beautifully.

2. Steamed Asparagus with Olive Oil

A light and snappy veggie that complements the richness of the cod.

3. Lemon Herb Quinoa

Fluffy, bright, and packed with protein—a perfect healthy side.

4. Sautéed Spinach with Garlic

Fast, flavorful greens that add color and nutrition.

5. Herbed Rice Pilaf

Mild but fragrant, this side won’t compete with the bold flavors of the dish.

6. Crispy Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Their nuttiness and crunch pair nicely with the buttery cod.

7. Cherry Tomato and Cucumber Salad

A fresh and tangy contrast that brings a refreshing crunch.

8. Crusty Artisan Bread

Great for soaking up every last drop of that lemon garlic butter.

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Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), Lemon Garlic Butter Cod can be stored safely for a quick meal the next day.

• Refrigerate: Place cooled cod in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat to maintain texture. Avoid the microwave—it tends to make the fish rubbery and ruins that crispy skin.
• Freeze: Not recommended. The delicate texture of cod changes when frozen and reheated, and the skin loses its crispness.

If you made extra lemon garlic butter sauce, store it separately in the fridge for up to 3 days, and gently reheat before drizzling over the fish.

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Estimated Nutrition

Here’s a general estimate for one serving of Lemon Garlic Butter Cod with Crispy Skin (based on a 6-ounce fillet):

• Calories: 340
• Protein: 32g
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 380mg

Note: This can vary depending on the size of the fillet and the amount of butter used, so always check specifics if you’re tracking nutrition closely.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this with frozen cod?

Yes, but make sure it’s fully thawed and dried thoroughly before cooking. Extra moisture will stop the skin from crisping up.

How do I know when the cod is fully cooked?

The flesh should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. It’s done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

What if I don’t have skin-on cod?

You can still make it, but you’ll miss out on the crispy texture. Just be extra gentle when flipping so the fish doesn’t fall apart.

Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Fresh garlic is best, but garlic powder will work in a pinch—just use about ¼ teaspoon for each clove.

What type of pan works best?

A stainless steel or non-stick skillet works great. Just make sure it’s well-heated before adding the fish.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, naturally gluten-free—just double-check your spices and butter brand if you have sensitivities.

Can I add capers or olives to the sauce?

Absolutely! They’ll add a briny punch that complements the lemon and garlic beautifully.

How can I keep the skin from sticking?

Use a hot, well-oiled pan and don’t flip the fish too early. Let it sear undisturbed so it naturally releases.

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Conclusion

Lemon Garlic Butter Cod with Crispy Skin is one of those dishes that proves simple ingredients can turn into something extraordinary. It’s light, full of flavor, and easy enough to make on a busy weeknight—yet elegant enough to impress guests. That crispy skin is downright addictive, the lemon garlic butter sauce ties everything together, and it all comes together in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just want to try something new, this recipe deserves a spot in your regular rotation.

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