Garlic Butter Baked Cod
Garlic Butter Baked Cod is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that brings the flavors of garlic and butter together with the delicate taste of cod. This dish not only looks appealing but is also packed with flavor that will leave your taste buds satisfied. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, Garlic Butter Baked Cod is sure to impress your family and friends.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Garlic Butter Baked Cod is a great choice for many reasons. First, it requires very few ingredients, making it simple and cost-effective. Second, cod is a light and flaky fish that cooks quickly, making it perfect for those busy evenings. Lastly, the combination of garlic and butter gives it a rich flavor that everyone will love. Cooking fish at home can be easy and enjoyable with this recipe.
How to Make Garlic Butter Baked Cod
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
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the lemon juice and remove from heat.
- Place the cod fillets in the greased baking dish and pour the garlic butter mixture over them.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Baked Cod
Garlic Butter Baked Cod is best served hot. You can pair it with a light salad, steamed vegetables, or a side of rice or quinoa. Adding a wedge of lemon on the side can enhance the flavor even more. This dish makes a lovely presentation at the dinner table, so feel free to sprinkle some extra parsley on top for a pop of color.
How to Store Garlic Butter Baked Cod
If you have leftovers, store Garlic Butter Baked Cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should be eaten within 1-2 days for the best taste and quality. To reheat, you can place it back in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through. Be careful not to overcook it during reheating.
Tips to Make Garlic Butter Baked Cod
- Choose fresh cod fillets for the best flavor and texture.
- Make sure not to overcook the fish; it should be flaky but still moist.
- For added flavor, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a little heat.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic and lemon juice according to your taste.
Variation
You can easily switch up this recipe by using different types of fish. Tilapia or haddock works well too. Additionally, you can use herbs like thyme or dill instead of parsley for a different flavor profile.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen cod fillets for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cod fillets. Just make sure to thaw them completely before baking.
2. What should the internal temperature of the cod reach when it’s done?
The internal temperature of the cod should reach 145°F (63°C) when it’s fully cooked.
3. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
You can substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative like olive oil or a plant-based butter to make it dairy-free.
Garlic Butter Baked Cod is a simple yet delicious dish that everyone will enjoy. Give this recipe a try for your next meal, and savor the wonderful flavors that come together in just a few steps!
Garlic Butter Baked Cod
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces fresh cod fillets (about 6 oz each) Choose fresh cod for the best flavor and texture.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter Use 1 stick, melted.
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced Adjust amount according to taste.
- 2 tbsp lemon juice Freshly squeezed works best.
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped For garnish.
- Salt and pepper To taste.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
Cooking
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Stir in the lemon juice and remove from heat.
- Place the cod fillets in the greased baking dish and pour the garlic butter mixture over them.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
