This Garlic Butter Lemon Cod is light, flaky, and full of bright, buttery flavor. Tender cod fillets are pan-seared and finished in a rich garlic lemon butter sauce, making it a quick restaurant-style seafood dish you can make at home in under 30 minutes.
Prep Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 2–3
Equipment
- Non-stick skillet
- Spatula
- Mixing bowl
- Knife and cutting board
- Paper towels
Ingredients
🐟 Fish
- 2–3 cod fillets
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1 tbsp olive oil
🧄 Garlic Butter Lemon Sauce
- 3 tbsp butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest (optional)
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Ingredient Notes
- Cod is mild, flaky, and perfect for buttery sauces
- Butter + garlic creates a rich base
- Lemon adds freshness and balance
- Fresh parsley enhances flavor and color
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Fish
Pat cod fillets dry with paper towels. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Step 2: Sear the Cod
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook cod for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and flaky. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Make Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same pan, melt butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Add Lemon Flavor
Stir in lemon juice, zest (if using), and chili flakes. Let it simmer for 1 minute.
Step 5: Combine
Return cod to the pan and spoon sauce over the fillets. Cook for another 1–2 minutes.
Step 6: Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving Approx.)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
Tips
- Don’t overcook cod—it becomes dry quickly
- Pat fish dry for a better sear
- Use fresh lemon for best flavor
- Spoon sauce over fish while serving
Variations
Creamy Version
Add 2–3 tbsp heavy cream to the sauce.
Spicy Garlic Cod
Increase chili flakes or add cayenne pepper.
Herb Butter Cod
Add dill, thyme, or basil for extra aroma.
Oven-Baked Version
Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, then pour sauce over.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Butter Lemon Cod is a simple yet elegant seafood dish. It’s light, flavorful, and perfect for a healthy dinner that still feels rich and satisfying.
