Baked Cod with Lemon Butter Sauce: A Simple Yet Delicious Recipe for Your Weekly Dinner

When it comes to quick and healthy dinners, nothing beats a well-cooked fish dish. One such favorite in our household is baked cod with lemon butter sauce. My husband has been asking for this recipe every week for two months, and it’s become a family staple. Not only is it easy to make, but it’s also packed with flavor and nutrition. Plus, it’s perfect for those nights when you want a meal that feels fancy but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Baked Cod Recipe

Cod is a white fish that’s mild in flavor and pairs beautifully with simple seasonings. When baked with olive oil, garlic, and a lemon butter sauce, it transforms into a tender, flaky, and utterly delicious meal. Cod is also a low-calorie, high-protein option, making it perfect for anyone looking to maintain a healthy diet without sacrificing flavor.

This baked cod recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, yet elegant enough to serve when you have guests over. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a gourmet-style dish that tastes like it came from a five-star restaurant. Whether you’re new to cooking fish or a seasoned chef, this recipe will impress everyone at the table.

Health Benefits of Cod Fish

Before diving into the recipe, it’s worth noting that cod is an incredibly healthy fish. Here are a few reasons why:

Low in Calories, High in Protein: Cod is an excellent source of lean protein without the extra calories. A 3-ounce serving of cooked cod provides around 90 calories and 20 grams of protein.
Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Omega-3s are essential fats that promote heart health, reduce inflammation, and support brain function. Cod is a good source of these healthy fats.
Packed with Vitamins and Minerals: Cod is rich in B vitamins, especially B12, which supports nerve function and energy production. It also contains minerals like iodine, phosphorus, and selenium, which play vital roles in metabolism and thyroid health.

Ingredients for Baked Cod with Lemon Butter Sauce

For this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

4 fresh cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons butter, melted
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 large lemon (sliced and juiced)
1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh thyme if available)
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Optional: Thin lemon slices for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions for the Perfect Baked Cod

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating, prepare the cod and the lemon butter sauce.

Step 2: Prepare the Cod

Pat the cod fillets dry with a paper towel. This step is essential to ensure the fish bakes evenly and absorbs the seasoning well. Place the cod fillets in a lightly greased baking dish, making sure they are arranged in a single layer.

Step 3: Season the Cod

Drizzle the fillets with olive oil and season them with salt, black pepper, thyme, and paprika. Rub the seasonings into the fish gently to ensure they are well coated. The paprika adds a subtle smokiness, while the thyme brings in an earthy note, complementing the light, delicate flavor of the cod.

Step 4: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce

In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Stir well to mix. This sauce will add a bright, tangy flavor to the dish while keeping the fish moist as it bakes. Pour the lemon butter mixture evenly over the seasoned cod fillets.

Step 5: Add Lemon Slices

For an extra burst of flavor, top each cod fillet with a thin slice of lemon. The lemon slices will infuse the fish with citrus as it cooks, making the dish even more aromatic and flavorful.

Step 6: Bake the Cod

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. The cod is done when it becomes opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Be careful not to overcook it, as fish can quickly become dry if left in the oven too long.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let the fish rest for a minute or two. Garnish the cod with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the baked cod with a side of your choice—steamed vegetables, rice, or even a simple salad.

Tips for Perfectly Baked Cod

Use Fresh Cod: Whenever possible, opt for fresh over frozen cod. Fresh fish has a more delicate texture and richer flavor. However, if you’re using frozen cod, make sure to thaw it properly before cooking.
Pat the Fish Dry: This ensures that the fish absorbs the seasonings and bakes to a nice, flaky texture without becoming soggy.
Watch the Cooking Time: Cod cooks quickly, so keep a close eye on it while it’s in the oven. The fish should be opaque and easily flaked with a fork, but still moist.
Customize the Seasoning: While this recipe uses thyme and paprika, feel free to experiment with other herbs and spices. Dill, rosemary, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a new twist.

Serving Suggestions

This baked cod recipe pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few options:

Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus make a healthy and colorful addition to your plate.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture of mashed potatoes is a perfect contrast to the lightness of the fish.
Rice Pilaf: A simple rice pilaf can soak up the delicious lemon butter sauce for a more filling meal.
Couscous Salad: For a Mediterranean-inspired side, try a couscous salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for an easy, healthy, and flavorful dinner option, this baked cod with lemon butter sauce is the perfect recipe to try. It’s a hit in our household and has quickly become a go-to dish for busy weeknights. Not only is it quick to make, but it also brings a restaurant-quality meal to your table with minimal effort. Give it a try, and let this dish become a regular in your weekly dinner rotation!