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Baked Garlic Butter Cod – Easy and Delicious Recipe

Baked Garlic Butter Cod – Easy and Delicious Recipe


Description

Welcome to a delicious and easy-to-make recipe that will surely become a family favorite. This Baked Garlic Butter Cod is packed with flavors, thanks to a rich garlic and parsley-infused butter that brings out the best in the cod fillets. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal, this dish takes only 30 minutes to prepare and cook!


Ingredients

Scale

  • 4 (6 oz./170g) cod fillets
  • 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) salt (or to personal taste)
  • Fresh cracked black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) smoked paprika (or to taste)
  • 3 tablespoons (45 ml) butter, softened (not melted)
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) minced or crushed garlic (about 3 large cloves)
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) minced parsley
  • Olive oil for baking dish
  • Lemon wedges, optional

Optional Substitutions:

  • For a dairy-free option, use vegan butter or olive oil.
  • If you prefer a different type of fish, such as tilapia or haddock, this recipe can be easily adapted. Just adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the fillets.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C). Lightly oil a baking dish and set it aside.

Step 2: Season the Cod

Rinse and pat dry the cod fillets. Season both sides with salt, fresh cracked black pepper, and smoked paprika. Set the fillets aside while you prepare the garlic butter.

Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Butter

In a small bowl, stir together the softened butter, minced garlic, and parsley. This fragrant compound butter is the secret to the rich flavor of the dish.

Step 4: Butter the Cod Fillets

Rub the garlic butter mixture generously on both sides of each cod fillet. Make sure they are well coated to ensure maximum flavor during baking.

Step 5: Bake the Cod

Place the cod fillets in the prepared baking dish. If you have any leftover garlic butter, add it to the dish for extra flavor. Optionally, add lemon wedges to the baking dish for a burst of citrusy freshness. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once the cod is cooked, spoon the melted garlic butter sauce from the baking dish over the fillets. Serve with your favorite vegetables or a light salad, and garnish with lemon slices for an extra pop of flavor.

Notes

  • Use fresh garlic: Freshly minced garlic will provide the best flavor. Avoid using pre-minced garlic from a jar as it tends to lose its potency over time.
  • Don’t overcook: Overcooked cod can become dry. Keep an eye on the cooking time and check the internal temperature to ensure it doesn’t go over 145°F (63°C).
  • Add citrus: Lemon wedges not only enhance the flavor of the cod but also provide a beautiful presentation. Squeeze a little fresh lemon juice over the fillets before serving for a bright, zesty finish.