If you’re craving a light yet satisfying seafood dinner, Garlic Butter Baked Cod might just become your new weeknight hero. This article covers everything you need to know—why this dish works, the simple ingredients, step-by-step instructions, creative serving ideas, and expert tips for getting it just right. Whether you’re new to fish or a cod lover already, this easy recipe brings restaurant-quality flavor to your table—fast.
Why Garlic Butter Baked Cod Works Every Time
There are a lot of reasons to fall in love with this recipe. First off, it takes less than 10 minutes to prep. You melt butter, stir in garlic and lemon, pour it over fresh cod, and bake. That’s it. The garlic butter melts into the fish, making each bite juicy and rich. The lemon cuts through the richness, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds brightness right at the end.
It’s the kind of dish that feels fancy but takes almost no effort—just like these air fryer empanadas I make when time’s tight but flavor still matters. This cod recipe makes a perfect main course for everything from weeknights to dinner guests.
And let’s talk cleanup—one baking dish, one saucepan, and done. That’s my kind of cooking. Plus, with just a handful of low-carb, high-protein ingredients, Garlic Butter Baked Cod fits right into any clean-eating or keto plan without even trying.
Whether you’re pairing it with roasted veggies or serving it alongside a comforting carb like mashed potatoes, it just works. And if you’ve never cooked cod before? Don’t worry. This dish is the perfect introduction.
The Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple Ingredients, Bold Flavor
One of the best things about this Garlic Butter Baked Cod is how few ingredients you actually need. Yet, together they create something deeply flavorful, light, and satisfying.
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Baked Cod:
- 4 fresh cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
These ingredients are easy to find but make all the difference when fresh. The butter gives the fish richness, the garlic adds depth, and the lemon brightens everything up. Don’t skip the parsley—it gives a finishing freshness that makes the cod feel light and balanced.
Tools That Make It Easy
I’m not big on fancy kitchen gadgets, but the right tools make prep smoother—and cleanup quicker. Before you get started, gather these basics:
Essential Tools:
- Baking dish
- Nonstick cooking spray
- Small saucepan
- Knife
- Cutting board
Why They Matter:
- Baking dish: A ceramic or glass dish helps the cod cook evenly and keeps the butter sauce from burning.
- Nonstick spray: Keeps the cod from sticking and helps preserve its flaky texture when serving.
- Small saucepan: Melts the butter and gently cooks the garlic without burning it.
- Knife and cutting board: Essential for prepping your garlic, parsley, and lemon.
That’s all you need to turn cod into something crave-worthy. This is the kind of straightforward recipe I go to again and again—no stress, no fuss, just good food fast.
How to Make Garlic Butter Baked Cod Step-by-Step
The Easiest Baked Cod You’ll Ever Make
If you’ve ever hesitated to cook fish at home, this is the recipe to change that. Garlic Butter Baked Cod takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish—and nearly all of it is hands-off. The process is simple, the ingredients do the work, and the result is flaky, juicy, garlicky perfection.
Here’s how to make it:
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats, spray your baking dish with nonstick cooking spray so the cod doesn’t stick.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In a small saucepan over medium heat:
- Melt ½ cup unsalted butter.
- Add 4 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, just until fragrant (not browned).
- Stir in 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, then remove from heat.
Step 3: Arrange and Season the Cod
Place the 4 cod fillets in your greased baking dish.
- Pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over the fillets.
- Sprinkle with salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the dish to your preheated oven. Bake for 12–15 minutes, depending on the thickness of your cod.
- You’ll know it’s done when the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Tip: If you love that crisp golden top like I do, pop it under the broiler for the last 1–2 minutes.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Top with 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley just before serving. This adds a burst of color and a fresh, herbal finish.
Whether you’re serving it with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or something vibrant like this ceviche recipe for contrast, Garlic Butter Baked Cod is a meal that adapts beautifully to any table.
How to Serve, Store, and Customize Garlic Butter Baked Cod
Delicious Ways to Serve Garlic Butter Baked Cod
Garlic Butter Baked Cod is endlessly versatile. Whether you’re making a light lunch or hosting a dinner party, this dish easily adapts to the occasion. Pair it with fresh sides, bold flavors, or warm comfort food—you can’t go wrong.
Here are some of our family’s favorite pairings:
With Fresh Vegetables:
- Steamed Asparagus: Its bright crunch contrasts the buttery cod beautifully.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their golden edges and earthy flavor complement the fish perfectly.
On a Bed of Greens:
- Mixed Green Salad: With lemon vinaigrette, it adds a refreshing, acidic note.
- Spinach Salad: Tossed with walnuts and feta for crunch and creaminess.
Starchy Comfort Sides:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: A creamy, cozy pairing that absorbs the garlic butter sauce.
- Quinoa Pilaf: Light, nutty, and herbaceous—great for a balanced plate.
With Bread to Soak the Sauce:
- French Bread or Garlic Breadsticks: Don’t let that butter sauce go to waste!
For something outside the usual routine, I’ve even served this cod with Milanesa steak on the same table—a “surf and turf” style family feast that had everyone going back for seconds.
Variations & Make-Ahead Tips
Customize with Herbs:
Try adding fresh dill, thyme, or a sprinkle of paprika before baking for extra layers of flavor.
Make it Spicy:
Add a dash of crushed red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a subtle kick.
Swap the Fish:
This recipe works just as well with halibut, tilapia, or even salmon, depending on what you have on hand.
How to Store Leftovers:
If you happen to have any leftovers, here’s how to keep them fresh:
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F or in a covered skillet with a splash of broth or butter to avoid drying it out.
Freezing Note:
While you can freeze cod, it’s best enjoyed fresh. The texture changes a bit after freezing, but if needed, wrap tightly and store for up to 1 month. Reheat directly from frozen in a low oven.
Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Butter Baked Cod
1. What is the best temperature to bake cod in the oven?
The ideal temperature for baking cod is 400°F (200°C). At this temperature, cod fillets cook evenly and flake perfectly in 12–15 minutes. For a slightly crisp top, broil for the final 1–2 minutes.
2. Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cod—but for the best texture and flavor, thaw it completely in the refrigerator first and pat dry. Excess water from frozen fish can thin out the garlic butter sauce and affect cooking time.
3. How do I keep cod from drying out in the oven?
The key is not overbaking. Start checking the fillets at 12 minutes. When the fish flakes easily with a fork, it’s done. Using a generous amount of garlic butter also helps lock in moisture and flavor.
4. What other herbs go well with garlic butter cod?
Fresh dill, thyme, or a pinch of oregano add extra flavor without overpowering the cod. You can also stir herbs directly into the butter or sprinkle them on after baking.
Garlic Butter Baked Cod: Easy, Juicy, Oven-Ready Dinner Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Garlic Butter Baked Cod is a quick, juicy, and flavorful seafood recipe that takes just 10 minutes to prep and under 15 minutes to bake. A healthy, low-carb dinner perfect for any night of the week.
Ingredients
4 fresh cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a baking dish with nonstick spray.
2. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Stir in lemon juice and remove from heat.
3. Place cod fillets in baking dish. Pour garlic butter mixture evenly over fillets. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until fish flakes easily with a fork.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
Use fresh cod for best flavor and texture.
For extra crispiness, broil for the last 1–2 minutes.
Pair with greens or starchy sides like garlic mashed potatoes.
Best served hot and fresh, but leftovers can be stored for 2 days.