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Garlic butter baked cod fillets with lemon slices and fresh parsley in a white baking dish.

Baked Cod

Ella
This tender Baked Cod recipe is topped with rich garlic herb butter and bright lemon slices, then baked to flaky perfection in just 25 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American, Mediterranean-inspired
Servings 4 servings
Calories 258 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Cod

  • 4 fillets cod, about 6 oz each, skinless or skin on
  • 1 Kosher salt to taste
  • 1 Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 lemon, thinly sliced

For the Garlic Herb Butter

  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter softened to room temperature
  • 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic finely minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh herbs chopped parsley, chives, thyme or a mix
  • 0.5 tsp paprika

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
  • Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
  • In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped herbs, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  • Spoon the garlic herb butter over each fillet, spreading it evenly across the tops.
  • Place thin lemon slices both under and on top of the cod fillets.
  • Bake the cod on the center rack for 13–15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
  • Let the fish rest for 2 minutes, then spoon pan juices over the top before serving.

Notes

Use thick cod fillets or loin cuts for the juiciest results. Skin-on pieces help keep the fish intact but can be removed after baking. For flavor twists, try the Cajun, Mexican, or Mediterranean variations included above. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain moisture.

Nutrition Facts Per Serving

Calories: 258 kcal
Carbohydrates: 4 g
Protein: 31 g
Fat: 13 g
Saturated Fat: 6 g
Cholesterol: 96 mg
Sodium: 169 mg
Potassium: 760 mg
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 1 g
Vitamin A: 622 IU
Vitamin C: 19 mg
Calcium: 44 mg
Iron: 1 mg
Keyword Baked Cod, Easy Seafood Dinner, Garlic Butter Cod, Healthy Cod Recipe, Oven Baked Fish