How do I know when Garlic Butter Lemon Baked Cod is fully cooked?

The cod is fully cooked when it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. For best results, use an instant-read thermometer. The USDA recommends cooking fish to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) at the thickest part of the fillet.

Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen cod, but make sure to thaw it completely before baking. Pat it dry to remove excess moisture, which helps the garlic butter lemon sauce adhere and prevents the fish from becoming watery in the oven.

What are the best side dishes to serve with this baked cod?

Some top choices include roasted asparagus , mashed potatoes , steamed rice , or a fresh green salad . Crusty bread is also highly recommended to soak up the garlic lemon butter sauce. You can even add vegetables directly to the baking dish for a one-pan meal

Garlic Butter Lemon Baked Cod – Easy Recipe

Name: Garlic Butter Lemon Baked Cod
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Healthy
Ingredients: 1 ½ pounds cod loin fillets: thick and juicy base of the dish; 2 tablespoons olive oil: adds richness and helps blend the sauce; 4 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (from 1–2 lemons): provides brightness and acidity; 4 cloves garlic, minced: infuses deep, savory flavor; ¼ cup butter, diced: melts into a rich, velvety sauce; 1 small lemon, sliced: adds citrus aroma and presentation; Salt & pepper to taste: essential seasoning; Chopped parsley (optional): for garnish and a pop of freshness

Description

Garlic Butter Lemon Baked Cod is a quick, easy, and healthy seafood recipe made with cod loin fillets, garlic, lemon juice, and butter. Perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner, this dish is baked in the oven to keep the fish tender, flaky, and full of citrusy, buttery goodness.

Ingredients

Scale

1 ½ pounds cod loin fillets: thick and juicy base of the dish
2 tablespoons olive oil: adds richness and helps blend the sauce
4 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (from 1–2 lemons): provides brightness and acidity
4 cloves garlic, minced: infuses deep, savory flavor
¼ cup butter, diced: melts into a rich, velvety sauce
1 small lemon, sliced: adds citrus aroma and presentation
Salt & pepper to taste: essential seasoning
Chopped parsley (optional): for garnish and a pop of freshness

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish that will fit all cod pieces comfortably.
Pat cod loin fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper. Place in the baking dish skin-side down (if applicable).
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Pour the lemon garlic mixture evenly over the cod fillets in the baking dish.
Dot the top of the fillets with diced butter, and place sliced lemons on top of each piece.
Bake for 15–20 minutes, depending on thickness, until the fish flakes easily and is opaque.
Sprinkle with chopped parsley if using, and serve hot with your choice of side dish.

Notes

Use cod loin for juicier, thicker pieces; adjust cook time if using thinner fillets.
Bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch, but fresh gives the best flavor.
Use garlic powder (½ tsp) if fresh garlic isn’t available.
Check doneness with a thermometer — internal temp should be 145°F (63°C).
Add vegetables to the baking dish for a one-pan meal.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Healthy

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 310 kcal
Sugar: 0 g
Sodium: 193 mg
Fat: 19 g
Saturated Fat: 8 g
Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 2 g
Fiber: 0 g
Protein: 30 g
Cholesterol: 103 mg