This Lemon Butter Baked Cod is the kind of dish I turn to when I want something fast, fresh, and unfussy. It’s a no-stress recipe that delivers big flavor with just a few ingredients and minimal prep. The flaky, tender cod gets bathed in a luscious lemon butter sauce, kissed with garlic and dill, and baked to perfection in under 20 minutes. It’s the kind of meal that tastes like I put in a lot of effort—without actually doing so.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love that this recipe feels elegant but couldn’t be easier. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when I want something healthy and satisfying but don’t feel like hovering over the stove. The ingredients are simple and likely already in my kitchen, and the flavors are bright and balanced. Plus, the cleanup is a breeze—especially if I line my baking dish with parchment paper. Whether I’m feeding picky eaters or trying to impress, this baked cod always hits the mark.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
cod fillets (around 6 oz each, 4 pieces)
butter, melted (4 tablespoons)
fresh lemon juice (about 3 tablespoons)
lemon zest (about 1 teaspoon)
garlic (2 cloves, finely minced)
dried dill (1 teaspoon) or 1 tablespoon fresh dill
paprika (½ teaspoon)
sea salt (½ teaspoon)
black pepper (¼ teaspoon)
fresh parsley (for garnish)
lemon slices (optional, for serving)
Directions
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). I like to line my baking dish with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Make the sauce by whisking together melted butter, lemon juice, zest, garlic, dill, paprika, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
Prep the fish by patting the cod fillets dry with paper towels—this helps them bake better and lets the sauce cling to the surface.
Place the fillets in the prepared dish, then pour the lemon butter sauce over the top. I make sure to cover them well and even spoon excess sauce over the top.
Bake for 15–18 minutes. I check for doneness by gently poking the thickest part with a fork—the fish should flake easily and look opaque.
Garnish and serve with chopped parsley and extra lemon slices if I want it to look fancy. I usually serve it right away while it’s hot and buttery.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 4 servings. Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 15–18 minutes Total time: Under 30 minutes
Variations
I sometimes use haddock or pollock instead of cod—any mild white fish works great.
For a dairy-free version, I swap the butter with olive oil.
I’ve tossed in cherry tomatoes or asparagus to roast alongside the fish for a one-pan meal.
When I’m out of dill, I’ll use thyme or rosemary for a different herb profile.
If I want a touch of spice, I’ll add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Storage/Reheating
If I have leftovers, I store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I prefer using the oven or toaster oven to maintain the texture. I avoid microwaving—it tends to make the fish rubbery.
FAQs
How do I know when cod is fully cooked?
I look for the fish to turn opaque and flake easily when gently prodded with a fork. It should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?
Yes, I just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before baking to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
What can I serve with lemon butter baked cod?
I like pairing it with roasted potatoes, steamed veggies, rice, or a crisp green salad. The lemon butter sauce goes well with almost anything.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Absolutely. I often mix the lemon butter sauce ahead of time and keep it in the fridge until I’m ready to cook. Just warm it slightly before pouring it over the fish.
Is this dish healthy?
Yes! It’s high in protein, low in carbs, and can be lightened further by using olive oil or reducing the butter slightly.
Conclusion
Lemon Butter Baked Cod is one of those go-to recipes I rely on when I want a quick, no-fail dinner. It’s simple, flavorful, and feels special without being complicated. Whether I’m cooking for myself or serving it to guests, it never disappoints. I hope it becomes one of your favorites too.
Easy Lemon Butter Baked Cod is a quick and elegant dinner featuring flaky cod fillets baked in a bright, buttery lemon sauce with garlic and dill. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or a healthy, satisfying meal any time.
Ingredients
4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
4 tablespoons butter, melted
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
2 garlic cloves, finely minced
1 teaspoon dried dill or 1 tablespoon fresh dill
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon sea salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Lemon slices (optional, for serving)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Whisk together melted butter, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, dill, paprika, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
Pat cod fillets dry with paper towels and place them in the prepared baking dish.
Pour lemon butter sauce over the cod, making sure each fillet is well coated.
Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and is opaque in the center.
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon slices if desired.
Notes
Substitute haddock or pollock for cod if desired.
Use olive oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option.
Add vegetables like cherry tomatoes or asparagus to the baking dish for a one-pan meal.
Try other herbs like thyme or rosemary for variation.
Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven to retain texture.
