Tender cod fillets baked in a fragrant lemon garlic butter sauce with a touch of spice and fresh herbs. This light and flavorful dish is both elegant and effortless—perfect for a weeknight dinner or a refined seafood entrée that impresses without the fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Cod is the kind of dish that offers maximum flavor with minimal ingredients. The cod turns out flaky and moist, soaking up the aromatic garlic, zesty lemon, and rich butter. It’s a naturally light, protein-rich option that cooks in under 20 minutes and pairs effortlessly with everything from rice to fresh salads. Whether you’re new to cooking fish or an experienced home chef, this recipe delivers consistent, delicious results every time.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
• 1 lemon, thinly sliced
• Fresh parsley or thyme sprigs for garnish

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, red pepper flakes (if using), thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.
3. Lightly grease a baking dish and place the cod fillets in a single layer.
4. Pour the lemon garlic butter mixture evenly over the fillets.
5. Top each fillet with a few lemon slices and sprigs of fresh thyme.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 15–17 minutes, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
7. Remove from the oven and spoon some of the pan sauce over the fillets.
8. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or thyme sprigs. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15–17 minutes
Total Time: 25–27 minutes

Variations

• Add vegetables: Bake with cherry tomatoes, asparagus, or zucchini in the same dish for a one-pan meal.
• Use other fish: Substitute cod with haddock, halibut, or tilapia, adjusting baking time as needed.
• Make it dairy-free: Replace butter with olive oil or vegan butter.
• Add a breadcrumb topping: Sprinkle a mixture of breadcrumbs and Parmesan over the fillets before baking for a crispy finish.
• Switch up the herbs: Try dill, parsley, or basil instead of thyme for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

Storage:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheating:

• Oven: Reheat at 325°F (160°C) for 10–12 minutes, covered loosely with foil.
• Microwave: Heat gently in short intervals to avoid overcooking.
• Skillet: Reheat over low heat with a splash of water or broth to keep the fish moist.

Freezing:
Not recommended, as cod can become watery and lose texture upon thawing.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?

Yes. Thaw it completely and pat it dry before baking to avoid excess moisture.

How do I know when the cod is cooked?

The fish should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. Internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).

Can I grill this instead of baking?

Yes, wrap the cod in foil packets with the sauce and grill over medium heat for 10–12 minutes.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it reheats well and pairs with a variety of sides like rice, couscous, or roasted vegetables.

Can I omit the red pepper flakes?

Absolutely. They’re optional and can be adjusted or omitted based on your spice preference.

What’s the best side dish for this cod?

Steamed rice, garlic mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad all pair beautifully.

Can I use lemon juice from a bottle?

Fresh lemon juice is strongly recommended for better flavor, but bottled juice can be used in a pinch.

Can I prepare this in advance?

You can prep the sauce and marinate the fish for up to 30 minutes before baking.

Is cod a sustainable seafood choice?

It can be. Look for sustainably sourced cod certified by MSC or a similar organization.

Can I double this recipe for a crowd?

Yes. Use a larger baking dish and ensure the fillets are in a single layer for even cooking.

Conclusion

Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Cod is a beautifully simple and elegant dish that’s full of vibrant, fresh flavor. Perfectly flaky fish, a buttery citrus-garlic sauce, and the ease of oven baking make this a reliable go-to for any night of the week. Pair it with your favorite sides for a complete, satisfying meal that’s as healthy as it is delicious.

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