Oh, let me tell you about these garlic butter baked cod fillets! They’re like a warm hug on a plate—so tender and flaky, you won’t believe how easy they are to whip up. I remember the first time I made them; I was looking for something quick but impressive to serve my friends, and wow, did this dish deliver! The aroma of garlic wafting through the kitchen was irresistible, and as soon as I pulled them out of the oven, everyone gathered around, eager to dive in. Seriously, the combination of rich garlic butter and fresh lemon juice brightens up the cod in a way that feels both comforting and elegant. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be making it again and again!
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Baked Cod Fillets
- 4 cod fillets
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How to Prepare Garlic Butter Baked Cod Fillets
- First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial for getting that perfect flaky texture, so don’t skip it!
- While that’s heating up, grab a small saucepan and melt the butter over medium heat. Keep an eye on it; we want it nice and melted but not browning.
- Once the butter is melted, add in the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1-2 minutes until it’s fragrant. Wow, that aroma is going to make your mouth water!
- Now, pour in the fresh lemon juice and give it a good stir to combine everything beautifully. This little addition really brightens the dish!
- Next, take your cod fillets and place them in a baking dish. Season them generously with salt and pepper. This is where you can really adjust to your taste—don’t be shy!
- Now, drizzle that heavenly garlic butter mixture all over the cod fillets. Make sure they’re well-coated; every bite should be bursting with flavor!
- Slide the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the cod flakes easily with a fork. Keep an eye on them, as cooking times can vary a bit depending on the thickness of your fillets.
- Once they’re out of the oven, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. And just like that, you’ve got a stunning dish ready to impress!
Why You’ll Love Garlic Butter Baked Cod Fillets
- Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Deliciously rich flavor from the garlic butter that elevates the cod.
- Low-fat and healthy, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
- Packed with protein, keeping you satisfied and energized.
- Versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides.
- Impressive enough to serve at dinner parties, yet simple enough for a family meal.
Tips for Success with Garlic Butter Baked Cod Fillets
Alright, let’s make sure your garlic butter baked cod fillets turn out perfectly every time! Here are my top tips to keep in mind:
- Always use fresh cod if you can—it makes a world of difference in flavor and texture. If you have frozen cod, just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking!
- Don’t skip the seasoning! A little salt and pepper goes a long way, so be generous but taste as you go. You can always add more, but it’s harder to fix if you overdo it.
- Keep an eye on the baking time. Cod can go from perfectly flaky to overcooked pretty quickly. Start checking for doneness around the 15-minute mark!
- If you like a bit of a crispy top, consider broiling the fillets for the last couple of minutes. Just keep a close watch so they don’t burn—trust me, it’s worth it!
- Feel free to customize your garlic butter by adding herbs or spices like thyme or paprika for an extra kick of flavor!
Variations of Garlic Butter Baked Cod Fillets
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to customize your garlic butter baked cod fillets! For a fresh twist, try adding a sprinkle of fresh dill or tarragon to the garlic butter for an herbal kick. You could also mix in some crushed red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat! Want to sneak in some veggies? Toss in some cherry tomatoes or asparagus around the fillets before baking; they’ll soak up that delicious garlic butter flavor too! And don’t forget, a dash of smoked paprika can add a lovely depth to the dish. Experiment and find your favorite combo!
Serving Suggestions for Garlic Butter Baked Cod Fillets
Alright, let’s talk about how to make your garlic butter baked cod fillets shine even brighter by pairing them with the perfect sides! Trust me, the right accompaniments can elevate your meal to a whole new level.
- Steamed Vegetables: Fresh, vibrant veggies like broccoli, green beans, or zucchini make for a fantastic, healthy side. Just steam them lightly so they stay crisp and bright.
- Fluffy Rice: A bed of fluffy white rice or wild rice soaks up that delicious garlic butter sauce wonderfully. You could also try lemon rice for an extra zing!
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: If you’re in the mood for comfort food, creamy garlic mashed potatoes are a match made in heaven with the cod. The flavors will harmonize beautifully!
- Crispy Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch. It balances the richness of the cod perfectly!
- Crusty Bread: Don’t forget a warm, crusty loaf of bread for mopping up any leftover garlic butter sauce. Trust me, you’ll want every last drop!
Mix and match these sides to create a well-rounded meal that’s not just delicious but also visually appealing. Enjoy your culinary masterpiece!
Nutritional Information for Garlic Butter Baked Cod Fillets
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional side of things! Just a heads up—nutrition facts can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these numbers are just a general guide. But here’s what you can expect for each serving of these delicious garlic butter baked cod fillets:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
With low carbs and high protein, this dish is not only tasty but also a great option for those looking to keep things healthy. Enjoy every bite while knowing you’re fueling your body right!
FAQ About Garlic Butter Baked Cod Fillets
Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw your frozen cod completely before starting. It’ll cook more evenly and give you that tender, flaky texture we all love.
What can I substitute for the butter?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use olive oil instead. It won’t have the same richness as butter, but it’ll still add fantastic flavor. You can also try ghee for a buttery taste without the dairy!
How do I know when the cod is done cooking?
Great question! The cod is ready when it flakes easily with a fork. It should be opaque and should not look translucent. If you have a food thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prep the garlic butter and season the cod fillets ahead of time, but I recommend baking it fresh for the best texture. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
What sides pair best with garlic butter baked cod fillets?
Oh, there are so many delicious options! I love serving them with steamed vegetables, fluffy rice, or even a fresh salad. It really depends on your mood, but you can’t go wrong with anything that complements the buttery garlic flavor!
For more information on the health benefits of cod, check out this Healthline article.
For a delicious garlic butter recipe, visit this page.
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Garlic Butter Baked Cod Fillets: 7 Heavenly Tips to Savor
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Garlic butter baked cod fillets are a delicious and healthy dish. The cod is tender and flaky, infused with the rich flavor of garlic butter.
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for 1-2 minutes.
- Pour lemon juice into the garlic butter and mix well.
- Place cod fillets in a baking dish and season with salt and pepper.
- Pour the garlic butter mixture over the cod fillets.
- Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes or until the cod flakes easily with a fork.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Ensure the cod is fresh for the best flavor.
- Adjust garlic quantity to your preference.
- Serve with vegetables or rice for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: garlic butter baked cod fillets
