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Lemon Butter Baked Cod 2

Lemon Butter Baked Cod 2

Flaky cod fillets baked in a rich garlic lemon butter sauce with fresh herbs. Ready in 30 minutes and full of bright, clean flavor.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Total Time 28 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 265
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 fillets cod fillets (about 6 oz each), fresh or fully thawed pat very dry before use
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice about 1 large lemon
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp dried parsley plus fresh for garnish
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 whole lemon, thinly sliced for lining the baking dish
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes optional, for heat

Equipment

  • 9x13 Baking Dish
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Instant-Read Thermometer

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 baking dish.
  2. Line the bottom of the baking dish with thin lemon slices to create a natural base for the fish.
  3. Dry each cod fillet thoroughly with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.
  4. Whisk together melted butter, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, thyme, and dried parsley in a small bowl until combined.
  5. Place the seasoned cod fillets on top of the lemon slices and pour the butter mixture evenly over each piece.
  6. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Internal temperature should reach 145°F.
  7. Optional: Switch to broil for 2 minutes to lightly brown the tops for added color and texture.
  8. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately directly from the baking dish.

Notes

    >Always pat cod fillets completely dry before seasoning - this is the most important step for texture. >Start checking for doneness at 13 minutes for thinner fillets. >Reheat leftovers in a 275°F oven for 10 minutes - avoid the microwave to preserve texture. >Substitute cod with haddock, pollock, tilapia, or halibut at similar ratios.