Lemon Garlic Baked Cod Recipe

Let me tell you about a dish that has completely won my heart in the kitchen: Lemon Garlic Baked Cod. This simple yet flavorful recipe takes fresh, flaky cod fillets and dresses them up with a deliciously fragrant garlic and lemon sauce that’s buttery, tangy, and utterly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish comes together quickly but tastes like you spent hours perfecting it. The subtle herbs combined with the brightness of lemon and warmth of garlic work in absolute harmony, making Lemon Garlic Baked Cod a go-to recipe you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses straightforward and accessible ingredients, each playing a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavors, textures, and colors. From the rich butter and olive oil that keep the fish moist, to the fresh lemon zest and juice that add zing, each element is essential for an unforgettable meal.

• Cod fillets: Skinless, about 4-6 oz each, these flaky fillets form the tender base of the dish.
• Butter: Adds a luscious richness that complements the cod perfectly while helping to carry the garlic flavor.
• Olive oil: Balances the butter with a fruity undertone and helps gently cook the garlic.
• Garlic cloves: Minced fresh garlic is the star aromatic that infuses the entire dish.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of the fish.
• Dry herbs and seasoning blends: Garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, paprika, or your favorites — these add layers of savory depth.
• Lemons: One lemon for zest and juice in the cooking sauce plus another for finishing — the citrus brightness is what makes this dish pop.
• Fresh parsley: Minced parsley adds a bright green color and a fresh herbal note; you can swap in dill, chives, rosemary, or thyme if you like.

How to Make Lemon Garlic Baked Cod

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Garlic Mixture

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature helps cook the cod quickly while keeping it moist and flaky. While the oven heats, melt the butter and olive oil together in a pan over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and gently cook it until it’s fragrant and just starting to turn golden. Keep a close eye on it, because burnt garlic will turn bitter, completely changing the flavor profile.

Step 2: Add Lemon Zest and Juice

Once your garlic has reached that perfect golden stage, turn off the heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice and zest from one lemon. The acidity of the lemon juice quickly halts the garlic cooking, ensuring it stays tender and bright in flavor rather than continuing to brown.

Step 3: Season the Cod Fillets

Lay your cod fillets evenly on a rimmed baking sheet. Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, and your chosen dry herbs or spice blend — a personal touch here can really make the dish your own. This seasoning acts as a foundation that complements the garlic and lemon in the sauce.

Step 4: Apply the Garlic-Lemon Mixture

Spoon the warm garlic-lemon butter mixture evenly over each piece of cod. This step coats the fish with layers of flavor, ensuring every bite is luscious and infused. Then sprinkle your minced fresh parsley or other herbs on top to add freshness and color before baking.

Step 5: Bake Until Flaky and Perfect

Slide the baking sheet into the hot oven and bake for about 15 minutes. Check doneness by gently flaking the fish with a fork — it should easily separate into delicate, moist layers. Keep a watchful eye; overcooking will dry it out, and we don’t want that!

Step 6: Finish with Fresh Lemon

Once out of the oven, squeeze more fresh lemon juice over your Lemon Garlic Baked Cod. This finishing touch brightens everything up and gives the dish a zesty lift. Garnish with any leftover fresh herbs, and you’re ready to dig in!

How to Serve Lemon Garlic Baked Cod

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives sprinkled on top add a lovely pop of color and a burst of fresh, green aroma. A final squeeze of lemon juice just before serving is the perfect way to elevate all the flavors and make your dish come alive on the plate.

Side Dishes

Lemon Garlic Baked Cod pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Think steamed asparagus or green beans for a crisp, fresh contrast, fluffy mashed potatoes or creamy risotto that soak up all the buttery juices, and a light mixed green salad to balance the richness with brightness.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress guests, try plating your cod over a bed of garlic-infused quinoa or a colorful ratatouille. For a casual meal, serve on rustic wooden boards with wedges of lemon and fresh herb sprigs scattered around for an inviting, homey vibe. Lemon Garlic Baked Cod also makes a fantastic topping for crusty bread crostini for a delightful appetizer.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (and I hope you do!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cod holds up well for up to 2 days when kept chilled, but try to enjoy it sooner rather than later to preserve the delicate texture.

Freezing

While freshly baked cod is best enjoyed immediately, you can freeze cooked Lemon Garlic Baked Cod if needed. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil or use a freezer-safe container. Consume within 1 month for best flavor and quality.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm your cod in a preheated oven at 275°F (135°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can dry out the fish and make it rubbery. Adding a little extra lemon juice over the top before reheating can help maintain moisture.

FAQs

Can I use other types of fish in this recipe?

Absolutely! While cod is ideal for its mild flavor and flaky texture, you can substitute with haddock, pollock, halibut, or even tilapia. Just adjust cooking time slightly depending on the thickness of your fillets.

How do I prevent the garlic from burning?

Keep the heat on medium-low while cooking the garlic and watch it closely. Garlic cooks quickly and can turn bitter if overdone. Once it’s fragrant and just golden, remove it from direct heat and add the lemon juice to stop the cooking process.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes! Lemon Garlic Baked Cod is naturally low in carbohydrates and full of healthy fats from butter and olive oil, making it an excellent choice for those following a keto diet.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Definitely! Simply swap the butter for more olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative to keep it dairy-free without sacrificing flavor or richness.

How do I know when the cod is done?

Cook until the fish flakes easily with a fork and looks opaque all the way through. This usually takes about 15 minutes at 425°F but can vary depending on the thickness of your fillets.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a dish that’s both effortless and packed with flavor, Lemon Garlic Baked Cod is a must-try. Its bright lemon notes and aromatic garlic butter weave together so beautifully, making every bite a joy. Once you make this recipe, it’s likely to become a treasured favorite in your kitchen. Go ahead and give it a whirl—you’ll be so glad you did!

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