Name: Garlic Butter Baked Cod
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb. cod fillets; 2 Tbsp butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 Tbsp lemon juice; 1/8 tsp paprika; 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper (optional); 1/8 tsp salt; 1/8 tsp freshly cracked black pepper; 1 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Why You’ll Love Garlic Butter Baked Cod Recipe

The buttery garlic topping elevates the mild flavor of the cod, creating a satisfying and comforting meal.
It’s fast and straightforward, requiring minimal prep time (about 10 minutes) and just 15–20 minutes in the oven.
Because cod has a delicate texture, this method ensures it stays flaky and moist rather than drying out.
The bright pop of lemon adds freshness, making the dish feel light without losing richness.
It pairs easily with a variety of simple sides, making it adaptable to whatever you have on hand.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Butter (room temperature)
Olive oil
Fresh garlic, minced
Paprika
Salt
Fresh parsley (or dried if necessary)
Cod fillets (about 4 fillets)
Fresh lemon

Directions

Preheat your oven to 400ºF (200ºC).
In a bowl, mix the butter, olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and chopped parsley until well combined.
Place the cod fillets in a baking dish and spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over each fillet.
Slice half of the lemon and place the slices on top of the fillets. Reserve the other half for serving.
Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the fish is opaque, flakes easily with a fork, and reaches an internal temperature of 145ºF (63ºC).
Once cooked, spoon any pan juices over the fish and serve with lemon wedges.

Servings and timing

Serves: 4 people
Prep time: ~10 minutes
Cook time: ~20 minutes
Total time: ~30 minutes

Variations

Substitute cod with other mild white fish like haddock or tilapia, adjusting cooking time as needed.
Swap parsley with other fresh herbs like thyme, chives, or basil.
Use smoked paprika or add a pinch of cayenne for extra flavor.
Replace butter with dairy-free alternatives or use only olive oil for a dairy-free version.
Serve the cod over rice, quinoa, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheat gently in a low oven or microwave just until warmed through.
Avoid overcooking when reheating to maintain moisture.
Best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be frozen for up to 1 month. Be aware the texture may change slightly upon thawing.

FAQs

What kind of cod is best to use?

Both fresh and frozen cod fillets work well. If using frozen, make sure to thaw completely before cooking.

Do I need to thaw frozen cod first?

Yes, thaw frozen cod in the fridge or in cold water before baking to ensure even cooking.

How do I know when the fish is done?

The fish should flake easily with a fork, look opaque, and reach an internal temperature of 145ºF (63ºC).

Can I bake the cod at a different temperature?

Yes, but 400ºF provides optimal results. If baking at a lower temperature, increase the cook time accordingly.

What sides go well with this dish?

It pairs well with steamed vegetables, salads, mashed potatoes, rice, quinoa, or crusty bread.

Can I use other herbs or seasonings?

Yes, try thyme, basil, cilantro, or dill for a twist. Lime can also replace lemon for a different citrus note.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free as long as all ingredients used are certified gluten-free.

Can I make this ahead?

You can prepare the garlic butter mixture ahead and refrigerate it. Assemble and bake the fish fresh for best results.

Will the fish dry out if I reheat leftovers?

It can if overheated. Reheat gently and cover with foil or add a splash of water to retain moisture.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Reheat gently to preserve texture.

Conclusion

Garlic butter baked cod is the kind of recipe that proves simple ingredients can create extraordinary results. With a quick prep and easy bake, this dish delivers buttery, flaky fish infused with garlic and lemon. It’s the perfect go-to meal when you want something fast, wholesome, and satisfying. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a low-effort dinner party dish, it’s bound to impress.