Garlic Butter Baked Cod

If you’re looking for a quick, delicious meal that feels like a hug on a plate, I’ve got just the thing for you: Garlic Butter Baked Cod. This dish is not only easy to whip up but also packed with flavors that will make your taste buds dance! Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, this simple recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, it only takes about 30 minutes from start to finish!

What makes this Garlic Butter Baked Cod so special is its rich, buttery garlic flavor combined with the freshness of lemon. It’s the perfect balance of comfort and sophistication, making it a go-to in my kitchen. Trust me; once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, dinner can be on the table in no time.
• Family-friendly: The mild flavor of cod appeals to both kids and adults alike.
• Healthy meal option: Packed with protein and healthy fats, it’s a nutritious choice for any night of the week.
• Versatile ingredients: You likely already have most of these simple pantry staples at home!
• Deliciously satisfying: The rich garlic butter sauce elevates this dish into something truly special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This Garlic Butter Baked Cod uses simple, wholesome items that are easy to find and will create a mouthwatering meal. Here’s what you need:

For the Garlic Butter Mixture

• 4 Tbsp butter (room temperature) ($0.50)
• 2 Tbsp olive oil ($0.32)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced ($0.32)
• 1/4 tsp paprika ($0.02)
• 1/4 tsp salt ($0.02)
• 2 Tbsp finely chopped parsley ($0.22)

For the Cod

• 1 lb. cod (4 4 oz. filets) ($5.99)
• 1 fresh lemon ($0.69)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to switch things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try this recipe with other white fish like haddock or tilapia for a different taste!
• Add some spice: If you like heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
• Mix in veggies: Toss in some asparagus or cherry tomatoes along with the cod for added nutrition and color.
• Herb twist: Experiment with different herbs like dill or basil instead of parsley for a unique flavor profile.

How to Make Garlic Butter Baked Cod

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first—preheat your oven to 400ºF (200ºC). A hot oven ensures that your cod cooks evenly and quickly while achieving that lovely flaky texture we all crave.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture

In a small bowl, combine your room temperature butter with olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and chopped parsley. Stir until everything blends into a smooth paste. This mixture is where all that wonderful flavor comes from!

Step 3: Coat the Cod

Place your cod filets in a baking dish and slather them generously with the garlic butter mixture. Make sure each piece is well-coated—it’s what makes each bite so delicious!

Step 4: Add Lemon Slices

Slice half of your lemon into rounds and lay them on top of the fish. Not only does this add great flavor while baking, but it also looks beautiful! Reserve the other half for wedges when serving.

Step 5: Bake Your Cod

Pop your baking dish into the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on it—your fish is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145ºF. When it’s done baking, spoon any juices from the bottom of the pan over your cod for extra flavor.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your gorgeous Garlic Butter Baked Cod right away with those fresh lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over top. It’s perfect alongside some rice or steamed vegetables for a complete meal!

I can’t wait for you to try this recipe! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Butter Baked Cod

Cooking can sometimes feel daunting, but with a few tips, you can elevate your Garlic Butter Baked Cod to perfection!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and parsley not only enhance flavor but also bring vibrant color to your dish. Fresh ingredients make a noticeable difference in taste that dried ones can’t replicate.

• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cod as it bakes. The cooking time can vary based on the thickness of the filets and your oven’s characteristics. Checking for flakiness ensures you don’t overcook the fish.

• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add other herbs like thyme or dill for a twist! This gives you the chance to customize the flavor profile and make the dish uniquely yours.

• Let Rest Before Serving: Allowing the baked cod to rest for a couple of minutes before serving helps retain its moisture. This will give you tender, juicy bites every time.

• Squeeze Lemon Generously: The fresh lemon juice not only brightens up the flavors but also balances the richness of the butter. Don’t be shy—let your guests add their own squeeze for an extra zing!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Baked Cod

Presenting your Garlic Butter Baked Cod beautifully not only enhances your dining experience but also impresses family and friends! Here are some ideas on how to serve this delectable dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of extra chopped parsley or cilantro adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Lemon Zest: Grating some lemon zest over the top just before serving boosts flavor and gives a lovely visual touch.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds a crunchy texture and vibrant green color, making it a perfect complement to the buttery cod.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes provide a rich, comforting side that pairs well with the flavors of the fish.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast and is packed with nutrients.
• Roasted Broccoli: Crispy roasted broccoli, seasoned simply with olive oil, salt, and pepper, brings out wonderful flavors while adding some healthy greens to your meal.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to enjoy your Garlic Butter Baked Cod in style! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Garlic Butter Baked Cod is not only a quick weeknight meal but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it ahead of time to enjoy during busy days.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It’s best to consume leftovers within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.
• Keep any lemon wedges separate to maintain the fish’s flavor.

Freezing

• If you want to freeze your baked cod, allow it to cool completely first.
• Wrap individual filets tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Frozen cod is best used within 1-2 months for quality.

Reheating

• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350ºF and place the cod in a baking dish.
• Cover with foil to ensure it doesn’t dry out and heat for about 15 minutes, or until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave it on medium power for a few minutes, checking regularly.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Garlic Butter Baked Cod:

Can I use other types of fish for this Garlic Butter Baked Cod recipe?

Absolutely! While cod is fantastic for this dish, you can substitute it with other firm white fish like haddock or tilapia. Just adjust the baking time based on the thickness of the filets.

How do I know when my Garlic Butter Baked Cod is done?

The cod is perfectly cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145ºF. Keep an eye on it as cooking times may vary depending on your oven and the thickness of your filets.

Can I make this recipe without butter?

Yes! If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can replace butter with plant-based alternatives like vegan butter or olive oil. The flavor will still be delicious!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delicious Garlic Butter Baked Cod as much as I do! It’s simple yet packed with flavor, making it a wonderful addition to your dinner repertoire. Whether you’re preparing it for friends or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish is sure to impress. Happy cooking!