Easy Lemon Butter Baked Cod

If you're looking for a dinner that feels gourmet but is secretly easy, this Lemon Butter Baked Cod is your new go-to. It's light, buttery, and kissed with the brightness of fresh lemon—simple enough for a weeknight but elegant enough to serve to guests.

I first made this recipe on a chilly evening when I was craving something warm and nourishing that wouldn’t weigh me down. I had a few cod fillets in the freezer, a lemon in the fridge, and just enough butter to pull something together. What came out of the oven was tender, flaky, and full of flavor—exactly the comfort I was hoping for, without spending hours in the kitchen.

This baked cod is everything you want in a recipe: quick, healthy, and full of flavor. It comes together in under 30 minutes, uses ingredients you probably already have, and it’s so foolproof, you’ll wonder why you haven’t been making it all along. Whether you’re a seafood pro or a total beginner, this dish has your back.

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Butter Baked Cod

This isn’t just another baked fish recipe—it’s a weeknight wonder with weekend-worthy flavor. Here’s why this dish deserves a permanent spot in your dinner rotation:

Light, Flaky, and Flavorful

One of the best things about cod is how beautifully it bakes. It turns delicately flaky in the oven, and when coated in a garlic-lemon butter sauce, it practically melts in your mouth. The butter gives it richness, the lemon adds brightness, and the garlic? It pulls everything together with that savory, cozy aroma we all love.

Cod is also a blank canvas—it soaks up flavor like a dream, so every bite is infused with citrusy, garlicky goodness.

Pantry-Friendly Ingredients

No need to run to a specialty market—this recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients that you probably already have on hand:

• Cod fillets

• Butter

• Garlic powder

• Fresh lemon

• Salt, pepper, parsley

That’s it. No fancy oils, no obscure spices—just affordable, familiar flavors that come together like magic.

Quick and Easy Preparation

This recipe shines on busy nights. From start to finish, you’re looking at:

• 10 minutes of prep

• 12–15 minutes in the oven

That’s it. No flipping, no frying, no fancy equipment. Just a baking dish and your oven. You can even prep the lemon butter sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for an even faster dinner.

Versatile and Customizable

Don’t have cod? No problem. This recipe works wonderfully with almost any white fish like:

• Tilapia

• Haddock

• Halibut

• Pollock

Want more flavor? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, or stir in fresh herbs like thyme, dill, or rosemary into the butter mixture. You can even top it with a sprinkle of breadcrumbs for a little crunch.

This is the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again—not just because it’s easy, but because it fits whatever mood or ingredients you have on hand. And that’s the beauty of it.

Ingredients

Let’s talk ingredients. One of the best things about this Lemon Butter Baked Cod recipe is that it uses humble pantry staples to deliver big, bold flavor. You don’t need a gourmet pantry or a trip to a specialty store—just a few simple items that come together in the most delicious way.

Full Ingredient List with Roles

• Cod Fillets (4 oz each) – The star of the show! Cod is mild, flaky, and cooks quickly, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.

• Unsalted Butter – This creates the silky lemon-butter base that soaks into the fish for maximum richness.

• Fresh Lemon (zest + juice) – Adds a bright, citrusy tang that balances out the richness of the butter.

• Garlic Powder – Gives the dish that savory, aromatic depth without overpowering the delicate fish.

• Sea Salt & Black Pepper – Simple but essential for enhancing all the other flavors.

• Chopped Fresh Parsley – A pop of green freshness that brings balance and a beautiful finishing touch.

💡 Optional Extras for Customization:

• A pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat

• A sprinkle of onion powder for more savory flavor

• Fresh or dried thyme for a herby, earthy note

That’s it—simple ingredients, each playing a delicious role.

How to Make Lemon Butter Baked Cod

Now for the fun part—bringing it all together. This recipe is wonderfully straightforward, even if you’re not super confident in the kitchen. You’ll be amazed at what just 25 minutes and one pan can do.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). This high heat helps the cod bake quickly and evenly, keeping it moist and tender inside.

2. Pat the cod fillets dry using paper towels. This is a small but important step! Removing excess moisture allows the butter sauce to stick better and gives you that lovely flaky texture.

3. Melt the butter in a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl. Once melted, stir in the lemon juice, zest, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and any optional seasonings you like. It will smell heavenly already.

4. Brush both sides of each cod fillet generously with the lemon butter sauce. Be sure they’re nicely coated—you want every bite to be packed with flavor.

5. Arrange the fillets in a lightly greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Make sure they’re in a single layer so they cook evenly.

6. Bake for 12–15 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets. You’ll know they’re done when the fish turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. For extra precision, check that the internal temperature reaches 135–140°F (57–60°C).

7. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a bright, herby finish, and serve immediately.

💡 Optional but beautiful: Add a few lemon slices on top of the fish before baking. They not only enhance the flavor but also make the presentation extra lovely—perfect if you’re serving this at a dinner party or date night.

What to Serve with Lemon Butter Baked Cod

This Lemon Butter Baked Cod is incredibly versatile, which means it plays well with just about anything on your dinner plate. Whether you’re planning a light summer meal or a cozy weekend dinner, there’s a pairing that’ll make this dish shine even more.

Suggested Pairings

Sides:

• Steamed Rice – Keeps things simple and lets the lemon butter sauce shine.

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy and comforting, perfect for soaking up extra sauce.

• Roasted Vegetables – Try asparagus, zucchini, or carrots for a colorful, healthy plate.

• Cauliflower Rice – A great low-carb option that still feels satisfying.

Drinks:

• Chilled White Wine – Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio are crisp and citrusy—perfect matches.

• Sparkling Water with Lemon – Light and refreshing with just the right zing.

Desserts:

• Lemon Sorbet – A fresh, zesty finish that mirrors the main dish.

• Vanilla Panna Cotta – Soft, creamy, and beautifully light.

• Fresh Berries and Cream – A simple, sweet way to end your meal.

Choose your pairings based on the occasion—or your cravings!

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is. You can easily tweak it to suit your dietary needs or spice preferences without sacrificing flavor.

Dairy-Free Version

If you're avoiding dairy, simply replace the butter with olive oil or plant-based vegan butter. You'll still get that luxurious mouthfeel, and the lemon and garlic will still shine through beautifully.

Spicy Garlic Lemon Cod

If you like a little heat, add ½ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the butter mixture. It adds a subtle warmth that balances the lemony brightness.

Herb-Crusted Cod

For extra flavor and texture, top each fillet with a light sprinkle of breadcrumbs mixed with dried herbs like thyme, basil, or dill before baking. This creates a lovely, golden topping.

Gluten-Free Option

Great news—this recipe is naturally gluten-free! No swaps needed unless you're adding breadcrumbs. In that case, opt for a gluten-free variety.

Whether you're customizing for health reasons or just playing around with flavors, this recipe is your blank canvas.

Storage Instructions

Got leftovers? This dish stores surprisingly well and makes for a delicious lunch the next day.

Storing in the Fridge

Let the baked cod cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 2 days. The flavor holds up beautifully!

Reheating Tips

To keep the cod moist and flaky, reheat in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for about 5–7 minutes.
In a pinch, you can microwave it—just cover lightly and use medium power to avoid overcooking.

Freezing Instructions

To freeze, let the fish cool fully, wrap each portion tightly in foil or plastic wrap, and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will keep well for up to 2 months.
To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm gently in the oven.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

These quick tips will help you nail this recipe every time:

• Always pat the cod dry before seasoning—this helps the sauce stick and prevents sogginess.

• Use fresh lemon juice and zest—bottled juice just doesn’t deliver the same brightness.

• Don’t overbake—watch for flaky, opaque flesh.

• A digital thermometer is your best friend. Target internal temp: 135–140°F.

• Let the melted butter cool slightly before adding lemon juice to prevent the sauce from separating.

A few small touches go a long way toward making this dish absolutely perfect.

Related Recipes

If you enjoyed this Lemon Butter Baked Cod, you might also love:

• 🐓 Italian Chicken Cutlet Recipe – Crispy, golden, and full of flavor.

• 🧄 Garlic Steak Bites (Crock Pot) – Hearty and garlic-packed!

• 🍄 Steakhouse Garlic Butter Mushrooms – A perfect side with any seafood or steak.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cod?

Yes, absolutely! Just be sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before cooking. Otherwise, the sauce won’t stick properly, and you may end up with excess moisture in the baking dish.

What internal temperature should cod reach?

For the best texture, aim for 135–140°F (57–60°C). The USDA recommends 145°F, but cod tends to overcook easily. At 135°F, it will flake perfectly and stay moist.

Can I use other types of white fish?

Yes! This recipe works beautifully with tilapia, haddock, halibut, or even pollock. Adjust cooking time based on thickness.

Is this recipe low-carb or keto-friendly?

It sure is. With no breading and no sugar, it’s naturally low-carb and keto-approved.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can mix the lemon butter sauce in advance and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to cook, just brush it on the fish and bake. Freshly baked is always best!

Conclusion

This Lemon Butter Baked Cod is proof that a simple recipe can still feel special. With just a handful of ingredients and under 30 minutes, you get a dish that’s light, flavorful, and endlessly satisfying. Whether you’re new to cooking fish or just need a fresh idea for dinner, this recipe is a keeper.

If you’re nervous about cooking fish at home, this is the perfect recipe to start with. It’s easy, reliable, and honestly, kind of impressive. 😉

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