Description
Light, flaky, and bursting with nutty, buttery flavor, this Easy Baked Cod with Brown Butter is a simple yet elegant dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a meal that tastes restaurant-worthy without breaking a sweat.
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Ingredients
Scale
For the Cod:
- 4 cod fillets (6 oz each): Fresh or thawed frozen fillets.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: To lightly coat the fish.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds subtle flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: For a hint of warmth and color.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: To season.
For the Brown Butter Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: For that nutty, golden flavor.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Adds depth to the butter.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens the dish.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: For garnish.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cod
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Pat the cod fillets dry with a paper towel.
- Brush each fillet with olive oil and season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Bake the Cod
- Place the seasoned cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout.
Step 3: Make the Brown Butter Sauce
- While the cod is baking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Swirl the pan occasionally, allowing the butter to cook until it turns golden brown and smells nutty, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
- Drizzle the brown butter sauce over the baked cod fillets.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use Fresh Cod: Fresh fillets will give the best flavor and texture, but frozen cod works well if thawed properly.
- Watch the Butter: Keep an eye on the butter as it browns—it can go from golden to burnt quickly.
- Don’t Overcook: Cod cooks quickly, so remove it from the oven as soon as it flakes easily.
- Customize the Flavor: Add capers, chili flakes, or fresh dill to the butter sauce for a twist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Cuisine: American