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Flaky Oven Baked Lemon Butter Cod for Quick Family Dinners - Simple, Bright, and Reliable

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Cod fillets (about 1.5 pounds total; 4 pieces is ideal)
  • Unsalted butter
  • Fresh lemon (zest and juice)
  • Garlic (2–3 cloves) or garlic powder
  • Olive oil
  • Fresh parsley (or dill)
  • Paprika (sweet or smoked)
  • Salt and black pepper
  • Optional: Red pepper flakes
  • Optional: Lemon slices for topping

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven: Set to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking dish with parchment or lightly grease it.
  2. Pat the cod dry: Use paper towels. Dry fish browns better and stays firmer.
  3. Season the fish: Sprinkle both sides with salt, pepper, and a light dusting of paprika.
  4. Make the lemon butter: Melt 4 tablespoons butter. Stir in 1 tablespoon olive oil, the zest of 1 lemon, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, and minced garlic. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like heat.
  5. Assemble: Place cod in the dish, leaving space between pieces. Spoon the lemon butter evenly over the fillets. Add a few lemon slices on top if using.
  6. Bake: Cook for 10–12 minutes, depending on thickness. Cod is done at 145°F (63°C) or when it flakes easily with a fork and looks opaque.
  7. Finish and serve: Spoon pan juices over the fish. Scatter chopped parsley on top. Serve with rice, couscous, roasted potatoes, or steamed green beans.