Indulging in Lemon Garlic Butter Cod with Crispy Skin is like wrapping yourself in a warm, cozy blanket after a long day. The mouthwatering aroma of garlic mingles with zesty lemon and rich butter, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. crispy salmon bites This dish isn’t just food; it’s an experience that promises to elevate any weeknight dinner into a gourmet affair.
Picture this: You’ve had a rough day, and you want something quick yet delicious. That’s when this Lemon Garlic Butter Cod comes into play! It’s perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself to something extraordinary after a long week. shrimp pesto pasta Let’s dive into the magic of cooking this delightful dish! For more inspiration, check out this Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Lemon Garlic Butter Cod is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The bright flavors of lemon and garlic create a mouthwatering taste that lingers long after the last bite
- With its golden crispy skin, the dish looks as stunning as it tastes, making it perfect for special occasions or casual dinners alike
- Versatile enough to pair with various sides, it’s sure to please everyone at your table
Sharing this recipe with my family brought smiles all around when they tasted the crispy skin and buttery goodness. sweet potato burgers.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Cod Fillets: Fresh or frozen cod works well; look for fillets that are firm and shiny.
Garlic: Use fresh garlic cloves for maximum flavor; minced or sliced will do the trick.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best; it allows you to control the saltiness perfectly.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds brightness; avoid bottled juice if possible.
Olive Oil: A light drizzle enhances the flavor and helps achieve that crispy skin.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preferences.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley offers a pop of color and freshness as a garnish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prep Your Workspace: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lay out your ingredients and grab your favorite baking dish.
Prepare the Cod Fillets: Pat the cod fillets dry using paper towels. This step ensures they get that crispy skin we all love!
Melt the Butter Mixture: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt butter along with minced garlic until fragrant but not browned. Stir in lemon juice for zesty goodness.
Season Generously: Place cod fillets in a baking dish and drizzle them generously with olive oil. Season each fillet with salt and pepper to enhance their flavor.
Add Flavorful Toppings: Pour the melted butter and garlic mixture over the cod evenly, making sure every inch gets coated in that luscious goodness.
Bake Until Perfectly Cooked: Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Now you’re ready to savor every bite of this delectable Lemon Garlic Butter Cod with Crispy Skin! Enjoy it alongside roasted vegetables or fluffy rice—your choice! zucchini chips with aioli.
You Must Know
- This lemon garlic butter cod with crispy skin is not just a dish; it’s a culinary joyride
- The buttery aroma fills your kitchen, while the crispiness of the fish adds an irresistible texture
- Perfect for impressing dinner guests or simply treating yourself after a long day
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the cod skin-side down first in hot butter for that golden crisp, then flip and finish cooking.
Add Your Touch
Experiment with herbs like dill or parsley, or add a splash of white wine for extra depth.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently to preserve crispy skin.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Start with room temperature cod for even cooking; cold fish can cook unevenly
- Use a non-stick skillet and plenty of butter to achieve that crispy skin without sticking
- Always rest the fish before serving to let the juices settle
Cooking lemon garlic butter cod with crispy skin is one of those meals that always brings back memories of my grandma’s kitchen, where she would serve it on Sunday nights, making everyone feel special. For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Garlic Chicken recipe.
FAQ
Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?
Yes, just ensure it is completely thawed before cooking for best results.
What side dishes pair well with lemon garlic butter cod?
Pair with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
How can I make the skin even crispier?
Pat the skin dry before cooking and ensure your pan is hot enough when you start.

Lemon Garlic Butter Cod with Crispy Skin
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Lemon Garlic Butter Cod with Crispy Skin is a delightful dish that transforms a simple weeknight dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience. This recipe combines tender cod fillets with the vibrant flavors of lemon and garlic, all enveloped in rich butter for a truly satisfying meal. The crispy skin adds a perfect textural contrast, making each bite a flavorful delight. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish is sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels for crispy skin.
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter with minced garlic until fragrant. Stir in lemon juice.
- Place the cod fillets in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- Pour the melted butter mixture over the cod, ensuring even coverage.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until fish flakes easily with a fork. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cod fillet (170g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: For extra crispiness, start by searing the cod skin-side down in hot butter before baking. Feel free to add herbs like dill or thyme for added flavor or splash some white wine during cooking.