Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic is the kind of meal that proves simple ingredients can create restaurant-quality flavor right at home. Tender, flaky cod fillets are baked in a silky lemon butter sauce infused with garlic and finished with fresh parsley for a bright, clean bite. Every forkful is light yet satisfying, making this dish a perfect balance between comfort and healthy cooking at home.
This recipe is ideal for anyone searching for easy dinner ideas that feel fresh, nourishing, and effortless. It’s quick enough for busy weeknights, elegant enough for guests, and affordable enough to become a regular rotation meal. If you’re looking for a healthy weeknight dinner that delivers bold flavor without heavy prep or cleanup, this baked cod recipe checks every box.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy dinner recipe ready in under 20 minutes
- Light, healthy weeknight meal packed with protein
- Budget-friendly seafood option using simple ingredients
- Family-approved flavor that’s not overpowering
- Perfect for meal prep recipes and clean eating plans
- Beginner-friendly cooking with foolproof results
Ingredient Breakdown
Cod Fillets
Cod is a mild, flaky white fish that bakes beautifully. It’s low in fat, high in protein, and perfect for healthy recipes for families. Its neutral flavor absorbs the lemon garlic butter effortlessly, making it one of the best fish for easy dinner recipes.
Unsalted Butter
Butter adds richness and moisture, preventing the cod from drying out. Using unsalted butter allows better control over seasoning and enhances the natural sweetness of the fish.
Fresh Lemon Juice and Zest
Lemon juice brightens the dish while the zest adds concentrated citrus aroma. Together, they balance the richness of the butter and elevate this recipe into a refreshing, restaurant-style meal.
Garlic Powder
Garlic powder delivers consistent garlic flavor without burning, making it ideal for oven-baked seafood and easy cooking for beginners.
Sea Salt and Black Pepper
Simple seasoning allows the fish and lemon butter sauce to shine without masking the natural flavors.
Fresh Parsley
Parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh finish, enhancing presentation and flavor while keeping the dish light and vibrant.
Pro Tips
Always pat the cod fillets dry to ensure proper baking and prevent excess moisture.
Bake cod just until opaque and flaky to avoid dryness.
Use fresh lemon for the best flavor—bottled juice won’t deliver the same brightness.
Brush the lemon butter generously so every bite stays moist.
Let the fish rest for a minute after baking to allow juices to settle.
Ingredient Swaps or Variations
For dairy-free recipes, replace butter with olive oil or vegan butter.
For low-carb dinner ideas, serve with roasted vegetables or cauliflower rice.
For extra flavor, add minced fresh garlic or a pinch of paprika.
For gluten-free recipes, no substitutions are needed—this dish is naturally gluten-free.
For budget-friendly substitutions, use frozen cod fillets thawed properly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic alongside roasted asparagus, green beans, or broccoli for a healthy meal pairing. It also pairs beautifully with rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes for a more filling dinner. For easy party food ideas, serve it with a fresh salad and crusty bread to soak up the lemon butter sauce.
Make Ahead and Storage Tips
This recipe is excellent for meal prep ideas. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven at a low temperature or enjoy cold over salads for healthy lunch prep. While freezing cooked cod is possible, it’s best enjoyed fresh for optimal texture.
Cultural and Comfort Food Notes
Lemon-butter seafood dishes are a staple of American comfort food with Mediterranean influence. This recipe reflects classic coastal cooking where simple ingredients highlight fresh fish, making it a timeless favorite for family meals and holiday dinner recipes alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the lemon butter sauce in advance and bake the fish fresh when ready to serve.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Can I make this recipe healthier?
Yes, use olive oil instead of butter and pair with steamed vegetables for a lighter meal.
What substitutions can I use for allergies or dietary preferences?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Use dairy-free butter for lactose intolerance.
How do I know when cod is fully cooked?
Cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of about 135–140°F.
Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and arrange them in a single layer in the baking dish.
- Melt the butter and stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Brush the lemon butter mixture generously over both sides of each cod fillet.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, until the fish is opaque, flakes easily with a fork, and reaches an internal temperature of about 135–140°F (57–60°C).
- Remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.
