Lemon Garlic Butter Cod

Ingredients

For the fish

• 4 cod fillets (about 5–6 oz / 140–170 g each)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon onion powder (optional)

For the lemon garlic butter sauce

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

• ¼ teaspoon paprika

• 2 tablespoons chicken or vegetable broth (optional)

• Lemon slices, for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the cod

Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. This helps the fish develop a nice golden crust. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder if using.

Step 2: Heat the pan

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, carefully place the cod fillets in the pan without overcrowding.

Step 3: Sear the fish

Cook for approximately 3–4 minutes on the first side, depending on thickness. Carefully flip and cook for another 2–4 minutes, until the fish is golden and begins to flake easily. Transfer to a plate if needed.

Step 4: Make the garlic butter sauce

Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the butter to the same skillet and let it melt. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30–60 seconds until fragrant. Do not let the garlic burn.

Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, paprika, and optional broth. Stir gently and let the sauce simmer for 1–2 minutes.

Step 5: Coat the cod

Return the cod to the skillet. Spoon the lemon garlic butter sauce over each fillet. Cook gently for another 1–2 minutes, until the fish reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Step 6: Garnish and serve

Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately with lemon wedges and extra garlic butter sauce spooned over the fish.

Quick Recipe Summary

Season the cod with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Sear in olive oil for 3–4 minutes per side. Melt butter in the same skillet, sauté minced garlic, then add lemon juice and parsley. Return the fish to the pan, coat with the sauce, and cook until it reaches 145°F (63°C).

Nutrition Information

Estimated per serving, assuming four servings and including the butter sauce.

Nutrition values vary with the size of the fillets and the amount of butter and salt used.

Nut Information and Allergens

• Tree nuts: None required.

• Peanuts: None required.

• Main allergen: Fish (cod).

• Dairy: Contains butter.

• Dairy-free option: Substitute olive oil or a suitable dairy-free butter alternative.

• Gluten-free: Naturally gluten-free when all ingredients are verified gluten-free.

Tips for the Best Results

• Dry the fish well: This helps it brown instead of steam.

• Avoid overcooking: Cod is delicate and can become dry if cooked too long.

• Use fresh lemon: Fresh juice gives the sauce a brighter flavor.

• Control the heat: Cook the garlic over medium-low heat to prevent bitterness.

• Choose evenly sized fillets: They will cook more consistently.

Serving suggestions: Pair with steamed rice, roasted asparagus, broccoli, mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal.