Garlic Butter Baked Cod Delicious and Simple Recipe

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If you’re craving a seafood dish that balances simplicity with mouthwatering flavor, look no further than this Garlic Butter Baked Cod Delicious and Simple Recipe. Imagine tender, flaky cod fillets enveloped in a lush garlic butter sauce, kissed by fresh lemon and fragrant herbs, baked to perfection in under 30 minutes. This recipe is your new go-to for an effortless yet impressive dinner that satisfies both your taste buds and busy schedule. Let me guide you through every step to create a dish that feels indulgent but is surprisingly straightforward.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To pull off this Garlic Butter Baked Cod Delicious and Simple Recipe, you’ll only need a handful of everyday ingredients that come together to create a dish full of freshness, richness, and a burst of flavor. Each component plays a special role—from the tender cod providing a mild base, to the garlic butter enhancing every bite with buttery, savory notes, and lemon adding a bright, zesty finish.

• 4 cod fillets (6 oz each): Choose fresh, firm fish with a mild scent for the best texture and flavor.
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: This is the creamy base that carries the garlic and herbs.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic gives the dish its irresistible aromatic punch.
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced: Adds a refreshing zing and balances the buttery richness.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: A subtle herbaceous note that pairs beautifully with fish.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds depth and enhances the savory profile.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish: A pop of color and fresh, mild herbaceousness.
• Lemon wedges for serving: For that extra squeeze of brightness at the table.

How to Make Garlic Butter Baked Cod Delicious and Simple Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Dish

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures your cod cooks evenly and keeps the fish tender. Lightly grease your baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking, setting the stage for a fuss-free cooking experience.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Mixture

In a small bowl, melt your unsalted butter and mix in the minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until fully combined. This flavorful mixture will coat the cod fillets, sealing in moisture while infusing them with a rich, garlicky essence.

Step 3: Arrange the Cod Fillets

Place your cod fillets in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. Make sure each piece has enough space around it to cook thoroughly and absorb all that luscious garlic butter.

Step 4: Coat the Cod with Garlic Butter and Bake

Pour the garlic butter mixture generously over each fillet, ensuring every nook and cranny is coated. This step is crucial for that melt-in-your-mouth flavor. Bake the cod in your preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, until the fish turns opaque and flakes easily when poked with a fork.

Step 5: Check for Doneness and Rest

Use a fork to gently test the thickest part of the cod. If it flakes apart smoothly, it’s done. If it needs a little more time, continue baking in two-minute increments, but watch closely to avoid dryness. Once perfectly cooked, remove from the oven and let the cod rest for a few minutes—this helps it stay juicy.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a vibrant touch. Add lemon wedges on the side to offer your guests a zesty burst to brighten each bite. Now your Garlic Butter Baked Cod Delicious and Simple Recipe is ready to impress!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Baked Cod Delicious and Simple Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh parsley not only adds a lovely green pop but also enhances the herbaceous notes in the dish. Lemon wedges are essential—they let each person tailor the brightness to their liking, making every bite an experience in itself.

Side Dishes

This cod pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it alongside fluffy rice or quinoa, which soak up the buttery sauce perfectly. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli add a satisfying crunch and color contrast. For lighter fare, a crisp green salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness with refreshing acidity.

Creative Ways to Present

For a restaurant-quality look, plate the cod fillet in the center of a white dish and drizzle extra garlic butter over it. Scatter fresh parsley leaves and arrange lemon wedges artfully around the edges. You can even place the cod atop a bed of seasoned greens or fluffy grains for a stacked, elegant presentation. A sprinkle of paprika or red pepper flakes adds a pop of color and a touch of excitement.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store your garlic butter baked cod in an airtight container once it’s cooled to room temperature. Keep it refrigerated and consume within three days for optimal freshness and flavor.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap the cooked cod tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. Label with the date and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge before gently reheating.

Reheating

For the best texture and moisture, avoid microwaving. Instead, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C), place the cod on a baking sheet, cover loosely with foil, and warm for 10 to 15 minutes. This keeps your cod tender and flavorful, nearly as good as freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead—just mix the garlic butter sauce and assemble the cod in the baking dish, but hold off on baking. Cover and refrigerate for up to one day. When ready, bake as directed for fresh, delicious results.

What should I serve with garlic butter baked cod?

This recipe pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans, a light mixed green salad with lemon vinaigrette, creamy mashed potatoes for comfort, rice or quinoa to soak up the sauce, and crusty bread to savor every last drop.

Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen cod works perfectly as long as you thaw it fully before cooking. Simply place the fillets in the fridge overnight or use your microwave’s defrost setting, then proceed with the recipe as usual.

How do I know when the cod is perfectly cooked?

Check by gently poking the thickest section with a fork—if it flakes easily and looks opaque throughout, it’s cooked. Avoid overcooking to keep the fish moist and tender.

Can I make the garlic flavor stronger?

Definitely! Use freshly minced garlic instead of garlic powder for a bold flavor. For an extra boost, sauté the garlic lightly in butter before combining it with the other ingredients.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Butter Baked Cod Delicious and Simple Recipe is truly a celebration of flavors with minimal effort. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you need a comforting yet elegant seafood meal. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll become a staple in your recipe collection. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and enjoy creating a dish that’s as inviting as it is delicious!

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