Description
A flavorful and easy-to-make Garlic Butter Lemon Baked Cod recipe that features perfectly seared cod fillets coated in a seasoned flour mixture, sautéed with garlic butter and fresh lemon juice, then baked to tender perfection. This dish delivers a zesty, buttery taste ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant meal.
Ingredients
For the Cod:
- 2 lbs cod filets
- 2 tbsp canola oil (for searing fish)
- 3 tbsp butter (for baking fish)
- 1 lemon (juice only)
- 3 garlic cloves (pressed)
- Fresh minced parsley (to garnish)
Seasoning for Cod:
- 4 tbsp all-purpose flour (use gluten free if needed)
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt (more or less to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s ready to bake the fish perfectly after searing.
- Prepare the Seasoning Mix: In a wide, shallow bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper; stir thoroughly to create an even coating mixture.
- Prep the Cod Fillets: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Lightly season both sides with a little salt and pepper. Then, dip each filet into the flour seasoning mixture, dusting all sides evenly for a flavorful crust.
- Sear the Fish: Heat an oven-safe skillet (preferably cast iron or stainless steel) over medium-high heat for a few minutes. Add the canola oil and swirl to coat the pan. Place the cod fillets in the pan and sear each side for about 1 minute or until golden brown. Carefully remove the fish with a spatula and set aside temporarily. Reduce the heat to medium-low.
- Make Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same pan, add butter and let it melt. Add the pressed garlic and cook for a few seconds until fragrant. Pour in the fresh lemon juice and stir to combine flavors.
- Combine & Bake: Return the seared cod fillets back to the skillet, spooning some sauce over them. Transfer the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, depending on thickness, until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for optimal doneness.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, sprinkle fresh minced parsley over the fish, and serve immediately with your choice of sides.
Notes
- For gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour.
- Adjust salt and pepper according to taste preferences.
- Ensure the skillet used is oven-safe to avoid damage or accidents when transferring to the oven.
- Internal temperature of 145°F is recommended for perfectly cooked fish.
- Fresh lemon juice adds bright acidity balancing the rich butter and garlic flavors.
