Zesty Lemon Butter Baked Cod: A Light and Flavorful Dinner

Delight in the simplicity and flavor of our Lemon Butter Baked Cod, featuring tender cod fillets, zesty lemon, and rich butter. This easy, 25-minute recipe promises a healthy and delicious weeknight meal with minimal prep.

Ingredients

Eight 4-ounce cod fillets ideally thawed
1/4 cup of unsalted butter
One medium lemon both juiced and zested (refer to notes)
1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
3/4 teaspoon of sea salt
1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
1 tablespoon of freshly chopped parsley

Instructions

Preheating:

Initiate the preparation by setting the oven to a temperature of 400 degrees Fahrenheit (approximately 204 degrees Celsius). It is preferable to utilize thawed cod fillets for this recipe; however, if time is constrained, the fillets may be baked from frozen.

Preparation of Fillets:

Utilize paper towels to dry the cod fillets thoroughly. Arrange them in a uniform layer within a baking dish measuring 9×13 inches.

Butter Mixture Preparation:

In a small saucepan or microwave-safe dish, melt the butter. Once melted, remove from heat and incorporate the freshly juiced lemon and zest into the butter, mixing well.
Application of Seasoning and Butter Mixture: Generously brush the lemon butter mixture onto the arranged cod fillets. Subsequently, season them with garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper. Turn the fillets over and repeat the application of both the lemon butter mixture and the seasoning to ensure even coverage.

Baking:

Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake the fillets for 12 to 15 minutes. The duration may vary depending on the thickness of the fillets. The cod should reach an internal temperature between 135 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit, at which point it will appear opaque and easily flake with a fork.

Final Garnishing and Serving:

Once baking is complete, sprinkle the fillets with freshly chopped parsley to enhance flavor and presentation. Serve immediately to enjoy the dish at its optimal taste and texture.