Lemon Butter Baked Cod
This Lemon Butter Baked Cod delivers restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort! Flaky fish bathed in a tangy butter sauce for a healthy, family-friendly meal.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds 700g fresh cod fillets (about 4 pieces)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley or 1 tablespoon fresh
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons capers drained (optional)
- Fresh lemon slices for garnish
- Fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly coat a baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
- Pat cod fillets dry with paper towels and arrange in baking dish.
- In a small bowl, combine melted butter, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, thyme, parsley, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Pour mixture evenly over fish fillets.
- Sprinkle capers over fish (if using).
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Check for doneness - internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
- Garnish with fresh lemon slices and chopped parsley.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
- Prevent overcooking: Start checking for doneness at 10 minutes - cod cooks quickly and becomes dry if overcooked.
- Pat fish extra dry: This ensures the butter mixture adheres well and prevents excess moisture.
- Room temperature fish: Let fish sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before baking for more even cooking.