Easy Lemon Butter Cod
Easy Lemon Butter Cod is a quick 20-minute seafood dinner made with flaky cod, garlic butter, and fresh lemon. Perfect for busy weeknights and healthy family meals.
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets 5–6 ounces each, thawed if frozen
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley optional
- 4 lemon wedges optional
Instructions
- Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and black pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large nonstick or stainless-steel skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the cod and cook for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
- Transfer the cod to a plate and loosely cover with foil.
- If needed, carefully wipe the skillet clean using damp paper towels.
- Reduce heat to low and melt the butter.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, without browning.
- Add the fresh lemon juice and simmer for 1–2 minutes until slightly reduced.
- Stir in the lemon zest.
- Return the cod to the skillet and spoon the sauce over each fillet. Simmer gently for another 1–2 minutes so the Easy Lemon Butter Cod absorbs the flavorful sauce.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with fresh lemon wedges.
Notes
- Haddock, pollock, or halibut work well as substitutes for cod.
- Unsalted butter allows better control of seasoning.
- Add capers for a slightly tangy finish.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan just before serving for extra richness.