There’s nothing like a tender, flaky cod fillet kissed with a golden garlic butter sauce to make your mealtime feel a little extra special. This recipe is all about simplicity, speed, and maximum flavor—perfect for a busy weeknight or even a light, fancy dinner at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
Cod is a mild, versatile fish that pairs beautifully with just about anything. The garlic butter sauce is rich yet balanced, elevating the dish without overwhelming its delicate flavors. Plus, it’s ready in under 20 minutes—yes, you read that right! Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or just dipping your toes into cooking fish, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients
Here’s a sneak peek at what you’ll need for this easy dish. The full list of ingredients is below in the recipe card!
- Fresh cod fillets
- Butter
- Garlic cloves
- Lemon juice
Directions
Preparing the Cod
Pat the cod fillets dry with a paper towel. This step is key to getting a good sear. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
Cooking the Fillets
In a large skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium-high heat. Place the cod fillets in the pan and cook for about 3–4 minutes per side until golden and flaky. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Making the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant—about 30 seconds. Squeeze in some fresh lemon juice, stirring to combine.
Bringing It All Together
Return the cod fillets to the skillet, spooning the garlic butter sauce over the top. Let everything simmer for a minute or two, and you’re done!
Expert Tips and Tricks
- For extra crispiness, lightly dust the cod with flour before cooking.
- Use fresh garlic instead of jarred for the best flavor.
- If your fillets are thicker, lower the heat slightly and cook for a few extra minutes.
- Always let the fish rest for a minute after cooking to lock in the juices.
Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions
- Swap cod for another white fish like haddock, halibut, or tilapia.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick of heat.
- Stir in a handful of chopped parsley or dill at the end for a fresh, herby touch.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple rice pilaf. For something lighter, serve it alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette. A glass of chilled white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, is the perfect finishing touch.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftover cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a little extra butter or lemon juice to keep it moist. Avoid using the microwave, as it can dry out the fish.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking.
2. What’s the best way to tell if the cod is cooked?
The fish should flake easily with a fork and be opaque throughout.
3. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the butter with a vegan butter alternative or olive oil.
4. Is it okay to use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is always best, but bottled works in a pinch.
Conclusion
This Garlic Butter Cod is a true gem for any seafood lover. With its quick cook time, mouthwatering flavors, and elegant presentation, it’s bound to become a regular in your recipe rotation. Give it a try, and don’t forget to pair it with your favorite sides for a complete meal that feels like a special treat.
Print
Garlic Butter Cod: Quick & Delicious Seafood Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Seafood, Dinner
- Method: Pan-Fried
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Garlic Butter Cod recipe is a quick and delicious way to enjoy tender, flaky cod fillets with a rich and flavorful garlic butter sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fancy seafood treat!
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lemon (juice and zest)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cod fillets and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over low heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Stir in lemon juice and zest, and let the sauce simmer for 1-2 minutes.
- Return the cod fillets to the skillet and spoon the garlic butter sauce over them. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to warm through.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh cod fillets.
- Serve with rice, roasted vegetables, or a side salad for a complete meal.
- Avoid overcooking the cod to keep it tender and flaky.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cod fillet with sauce
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg