Simple Baked Cod with Butter, Lemon, and Garlic
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced (plus extra slices for serving)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ cup plain breadcrumbs (optional topping)
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan (optional topping)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional topping)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking dish or sheet pan with foil or parchment paper and lightly grease it with olive oil or cooking spray.
- Pat the cod fillets completely dry with paper towels on both sides. This helps them bake rather than steam.
- In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Spoon or brush the butter mixture evenly over the top and sides of each cod fillet.
- If using the breadcrumb topping, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and parsley together and press a light layer onto the top of each fillet.
- Place fillets in the prepared baking dish with a little space between each one. Bake uncovered for 18 to 22 minutes, until the fish is opaque all the way through and flakes easily with a fork. Internal temperature should reach 145°F.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 2 minutes. Serve with fresh lemon slices on the side.
Notes
Pat the cod fillets completely dry before baking — this one step makes the difference between fish that bakes golden and fish that just steams and goes soft. Don't skip it.