Description

This Lemon Butter Baked Cod is flaky, tender, and infused with fresh lemon and garlic butter. It’s a quick and healthy dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights, yet elegant enough for guests. Serve it with veggies, rice, or a crisp salad for a fresh and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
Salt and pepper, to taste
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
2 teaspoons lemon zest
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Lemon slices, for garnish

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.

Pat cod dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper. Place fillets in the baking dish.

In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, and paprika.

Spoon the lemon butter sauce evenly over the cod fillets.

Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. (Thicker fillets may take a minute or two longer.)

Garnish with chopped parsley and lemon slices. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Notes

Don’t overbake—cod cooks quickly and is best when just flaky.

Great served with roasted asparagus, steamed veggies, or rice pilaf.

Substitute cod with haddock, halibut, or tilapia if desired.