This garlic butter cod is a tasty dish that’s quick and easy to make. The fish is juicy and has a delightful garlic butter sauce that you won’t be able to resist!
I really enjoy making this dish on busy weeknights. It takes just minutes to prepare, and the smell in the kitchen? Pure happiness! Don’t be surprised if you want seconds! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cod fillets: Fresh cod is the star of the dish. If you can’t find cod, try using other white fish like haddock, tilapia, or pollock. They cook similarly and take on flavors well.
Unsalted butter: I love using unsalted butter so I can control the saltiness. For a lighter option, try olive oil or ghee. They also add delicious flavors.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a bold flavor. If you’re out of fresh, you can use 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder per clove. Just remember, the flavor will be milder.
Smoked paprika: This ingredient adds a lovely depth. If you don’t have it, regular paprika works too, but you’ll miss out on that smoky touch. You could also use cayenne for some heat!
Fresh parsley: Parsley not only adds color but freshness too! If you can’t find it, cilantro, chives, or even a sprinkle of dried herbs can work in a pinch.
How Do I Make Sure the Cod Is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking cod perfectly can be tricky, but with these tips, you’ll nail it! Cod is best when it’s moist and flaky, so watch the cooking time closely.
- Preheat your oven to ensure even cooking. A hot oven gives the cod a nice sear.
- Check for doneness at 12 minutes; cod should flake easily with a fork when done. If needed, return it to the oven for an extra minute or two.
- Don’t overcook, as cod can dry out fast. It should be just opaque and firm to touch.
How to Make Garlic Butter Cod
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cod:
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to bake. So, you’ll be enjoying your Garlic Butter Cod in just about 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the cod cooks evenly and comes out perfectly flaky.
2. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as that can make it taste bitter.
3. Add Seasonings:
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This flavorful mixture will give your cod its amazing taste!
4. Prepare the Cod Fillets:
Take a baking dish and arrange the cod fillets in a single layer. Pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over the top of the cod, making sure each piece is nicely coated.
5. Bake the Cod:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. The cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque all the way through.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, take the dish out of the oven and sprinkle the fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color. Serve the Garlic Butter Cod immediately with lemon wedges on the side for that extra zing. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Frozen Cod Fillets for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the cod completely before cooking. You can do this by leaving them in the fridge overnight or placing them in a sealed bag and submerging in cold water for about an hour. Once thawed, pat the fillets dry to ensure they cook evenly!
What Can I Use Instead of Cod?
If you don’t have cod, you can substitute it with other white fish like haddock, tilapia, or sole. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the fillets. Always check for doneness by seeing if the fish flakes easily with a fork.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in the oven at a low temperature or microwave it briefly until heated through, being careful not to overcook the fish!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the garlic butter mixture in advance and store it in the fridge for a day or two. You can also arrange the cod in the baking dish and pour the garlic butter over it, then cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Just increase the baking time slightly if it’s coming straight from the fridge!
