Flaky, tender, and bursting with flavor, Lemon Garlic Butter Cod with Crispy Skin is the ultimate weeknight dinner that tastes like it came straight out of a gourmet kitchen. With its golden-crisp skin, buttery garlic sauce, and fresh lemony brightness, this dish transforms a humble cod fillet into a restaurant-worthy seafood delight.
If you’re searching for healthy dinner recipes, comfort food with a gourmet twist, or a quick seafood meal for busy weeknights, this recipe checks all the boxes. It comes together in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy home cooks who still crave flavor-packed, nourishing meals.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Restaurant-quality at home – Crispy skin and buttery lemon garlic sauce make this dish taste gourmet.
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Fast and simple – Ready in under 20 minutes, ideal for weeknight dinners.
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Light yet satisfying – Flaky white fish with fresh citrus keeps it wholesome and nourishing.
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Versatile – Pairs well with rice, roasted vegetables, or even a fresh salad.
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Family-friendly – A mild, flaky fish that even kids enjoy.
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Healthy comfort food – Packed with lean protein and omega-3s without being heavy.
Ingredient Breakdown
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Cod Fillets: The star of the dish. Cod is mild, flaky, and perfect for crisping up in a hot skillet.
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Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and creates the base for the garlic lemon sauce.
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Olive Oil: Helps crisp up the fish skin and balances the butter’s richness.
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Garlic: Brings a bold, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with seafood.
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Fresh Lemon Juice & Zest: Brightens the dish with acidity and zestiness, cutting through the richness.
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Salt & Pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance cod’s natural flavors.
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Fresh Parsley: Adds a burst of freshness and color to finish the dish.

Pro Tips
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Hot pan = crispy skin: Make sure the skillet is preheated before adding fish.
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Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches if necessary so steam doesn’t soften the skin.
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Use a fish spatula: Its thin edge helps flip delicate fillets without tearing.
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Zest first, juice second: It’s easier to zest a whole lemon before juicing.
Ingredient Swaps or Variations
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Different fish: Try halibut, sea bass, or salmon for variety.
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Herb twist: Swap parsley for dill, thyme, or chives.
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Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter.
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Gluten-free breadcrumbs topping: Add crunch by sprinkling gluten-free breadcrumbs over before serving.
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Dairy-free option: Replace butter with vegan butter or extra olive oil.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve over garlic butter rice, mashed potatoes, or creamy risotto.
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Pair with roasted asparagus, green beans, or sautéed spinach for a fresh side.
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Add a crisp garden salad with lemon vinaigrette for a light, balanced meal.
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For a Mediterranean flair, serve with couscous or quinoa tabbouleh.
Make Ahead + Storage Tips
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Make ahead: Mince garlic, zest lemon, and chop parsley ahead of time. Keep in airtight containers.
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Storage: Store cooked cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
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Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in an air fryer to keep the skin crisp. Avoid microwaving, as it will soften the texture.
Cultural or Historical Notes
Cod has long been a staple in Mediterranean and Northern European cuisines, prized for its mild flavor and versatility. From Portuguese bacalhau to British fish and chips, cod has been used in countless ways. This lemon garlic butter version draws inspiration from Mediterranean coastal cooking, where citrus, olive oil, and fresh herbs bring seafood to life.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. 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 145°F (63°C).
2. Can I make this recipe with frozen cod?
Yes, but thaw completely and pat dry to remove excess moisture before cooking.
3. How do I prevent cod from sticking to the pan?
Use a hot skillet, oil plus butter, and don’t move the fish for the first few minutes. It will naturally release once seared.
4. Can I bake instead of pan-fry?
Yes, but you won’t get the same crispy skin. Bake at 400°F for 12–15 minutes.
5. What’s the best wine pairing?
A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with lemony cod.

Ingredients Â
Equipment
MethodÂ
- Pat cod fillets dry thoroughly with paper towels. This step is essential for getting crispy skin. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
- Place a large skillet over medium heat. Add butter and olive oil, letting the butter melt until foamy. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30–45 seconds until fragrant (be careful not to burn).
- Place the cod fillets skin-side down in the skillet. Press lightly with a spatula to ensure even contact with the pan. Cook for 4–5 minutes, undisturbed, until the skin is golden brown and crisp.
- Carefully flip the cod fillets. Pour in lemon juice around the fish and cook for another 3–4 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Remove from heat, sprinkle lemon zest and parsley over the fillets, and spoon some of the garlic butter sauce on top. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Always pat fish dry before cooking to get maximum crispiness.
- If your fillets are very thick, cover the skillet for 1–2 minutes after flipping to ensure they cook through.
- Fresh lemon juice is best—avoid bottled for the brightest flavor.