After a long day, the last thing I want is to spend hours in the kitchen. That’s where this Garlic Butter Cod comes in, a dish that’s as easy as it is delicious. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a meal that feels special without the fuss. Whether you’re looking to impress your family or just want a quick solution for dinner, this recipe is your go-to. The buttery garlic sauce envelops the cod, creating a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds. Trust me, this is a weeknight winner!
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Cod
This Garlic Butter Cod is a game-changer for busy weeknights. It’s quick to prepare, taking just 25 minutes from start to finish. The rich, buttery flavor combined with the aromatic garlic makes it a dish that pleases even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it’s healthy and low in fat, so you can indulge without the guilt. You’ll love how effortlessly it transforms a simple dinner into something extraordinary!
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Cod
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this Garlic Butter Cod shine. Here’s what you’ll need:
Cod fillets: Fresh or frozen, cod is a mild fish that flakes beautifully when cooked. Look for fillets that are firm and moist.
Unsalted butter: This is the star of the show, providing richness and a creamy texture. Unsalted allows you to control the saltiness of the dish.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds a punch of flavor. It’s aromatic and gives the dish its signature taste.
Lemon zest: This brightens up the dish, adding a refreshing citrus note that complements the buttery sauce.
Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice enhances the flavor and balances the richness of the butter.
Dried parsley: A sprinkle of dried parsley adds a touch of color and a mild herbal flavor. Fresh parsley can be used for a more vibrant taste.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning, these enhance all the flavors in the dish. Adjust to your taste.
Olive oil: Used for searing the cod, it helps achieve that golden crust while adding a hint of flavor.
Lemon wedges: For serving, these add a fresh burst of flavor when squeezed over the finished dish.
For those looking to spice things up, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture. You can find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Garlic Butter Cod
Making Garlic Butter Cod is a breeze, and I’m here to guide you through each step. This dish is not only simple but also packed with flavor. Let’s dive into the process!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures even cooking. When the cod hits the hot oven, it helps lock in moisture, giving you that flaky texture we all love.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture
In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. As it melts, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about a minute until it becomes fragrant. The aroma of garlic wafting through your kitchen is simply irresistible. Just be careful not to let it burn; burnt garlic can turn bitter!
Step 3: Season the Mixture
Once the garlic is fragrant, stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. This combination brightens the dish and enhances the flavors. The lemon zest adds a refreshing zing, while the parsley gives it a lovely color. Trust me, this mixture is the heart of your Garlic Butter Cod!
Step 4: Sear the Cod Fillets
Now, let’s get to the cod. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Carefully add the cod fillets and sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown. This step is key for achieving that delicious crust. Don’t rush it; let the heat do its magic!
Step 5: Combine and Bake
Once the cod is beautifully seared, pour the garlic butter mixture over the fillets, ensuring they are well coated. This is where the magic happens! Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. The cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen smells heavenly!
Step 6: Rest and Serve
After baking, remove the skillet from the oven and let the cod rest for a couple of minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite tender and flavorful. Serve your Garlic Butter Cod with lemon wedges for that extra burst of freshness. Enjoy!
Tips for Success
Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor, especially the garlic and lemon.
Don’t skip the searing step; it adds a delicious crust to the cod.
Keep an eye on the baking time; overcooked cod can become dry.
Let the cod rest before serving to enhance its tenderness.
Experiment with herbs; fresh dill or thyme can elevate the dish.
Equipment Needed
Oven-safe skillet: A cast-iron skillet works great, but any oven-safe pan will do.
Small saucepan: For melting the butter and mixing the garlic.
Spatula: To flip the cod fillets without breaking them.
Measuring spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
Variations
Spicy Garlic Butter Cod: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture for a kick of heat.
Herb-Infused Cod: Swap dried parsley for fresh herbs like dill or thyme for a more vibrant flavor.
Asian Twist: Incorporate soy sauce and ginger into the garlic butter for an Asian-inspired version.
Vegetable Medley: Add sliced bell peppers or zucchini to the skillet before baking for a colorful side.
Low-Carb Option: Serve the cod over a bed of cauliflower rice instead of traditional sides for a healthier meal.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with sautéed spinach: The earthy greens complement the buttery cod beautifully.
Serve with roasted vegetables: Carrots, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts add color and nutrition.
Enjoy with a crisp white wine: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc enhances the meal.
Garnish with fresh herbs: A sprinkle of parsley or dill elevates the presentation.
FAQs about Garlic Butter Cod
As you dive into making this Garlic Butter Cod, you might have a few questions. Here are some common queries that can help you along the way:
Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen cod works just as well. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even results. This way, you can enjoy a delicious meal without any hassle.
What can I substitute for cod?
If cod isn’t available, you can use other white fish like haddock or tilapia. They have a similar texture and will soak up the garlic butter flavor beautifully.
How do I know when the cod is done cooking?
The cod is perfectly cooked when it flakes easily with a fork. It should be opaque and tender. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking to avoid overcooking.
Can I make the garlic butter mixture ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the garlic butter mixture in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it gently before pouring it over the cod.
What sides pair well with Garlic Butter Cod?
This dish goes wonderfully with sautéed spinach, roasted vegetables, or a light salad. A crisp white wine also complements the flavors nicely!
Final Thoughts
Cooking this Garlic Butter Cod is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating a moment. The rich aroma of garlic and butter fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table. Each flaky bite is a reminder that simple ingredients can lead to extraordinary flavors. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish brings joy and satisfaction. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. So, roll up your sleeves and dive into this culinary adventure—you won’t regret it!
A delicious and easy recipe for Garlic Butter Cod that is perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
2 pounds cod fillets
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon lemon zest
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Remove from heat and set aside.
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the cod fillets and sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Pour the garlic butter mixture over the cod fillets, ensuring they are well coated.
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cod flakes easily with a fork.
Remove from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving with lemon wedges.
Notes
For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture.
Serve the cod over a bed of sautéed spinach or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
