Garlic Butter Baked Cod Recipe – Cheap Delicious Meals

Garlic butter baked cod is a delightful dish that can easily elevate any meal. To truly experience its potential, consider pairing it with the following side dishes:

Roasted Vegetables: Toss seasonal vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers with olive oil and herbs, then roast until tender. The natural sweetness of the veggies complements the savory notes of the cod beautifully.

Cilantro Lime Rice: The zesty flavor of cilantro lime rice offers a refreshing contrast to the rich garlic butter. It’s also a simple dish to prepare alongside the cod, making it a convenient option.

Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad, with its crisp romaine and creamy dressing, provides a crunchy contrast to the tender fish. Toss in some croutons and Parmesan for added texture and flavor.

Let’s face it: when it comes to dinner, we all want something simple yet memorable. Enter garlic butter baked cod. This dish takes very little time to prepare and can transform your dinner into a culinary experience. With just a few ingredients, you can create a plate that sings with flavor. Plus, the aroma that fills your kitchen while it’s baking? Nothing short of heavenly.

I remember the first time I tried garlic butter on fish. It was a weeknight, and I was tired, staring into the fridge searching for inspiration. I spotted a few cod fillets and remembered the half-used stick of butter sitting on the counter. An experiment began. Fast forward thirty minutes, and I was delighted by the crispy, juicy fish that emerged from my oven. Ever since then, garlic butter baked cod has been a go-to dish in my kitchen.

You Might Also Like These Recipes!

• Spiced Lentils With Carrots Recipe
• Curry Chicken And Rice
• Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

What is Garlic Butter Baked Cod?

Garlic butter baked cod is a delectable seafood dish where cod fillets are coated with a rich mixture of butter, garlic, and herbs. The fish is then baked to tender perfection, making it both simple and scrumptious. The baking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a dish that is comforting yet elegant.

Why This Recipe Works

Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic and butter creates a rich, savory profile. Cod has a mild flavor that allows the butter to shine, drawing you in with every bite.

Easy Preparation: You don’t have to be a culinary expert to make this dish. Just mix the sauce, coat the fish, and pop it in the oven. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re entertaining guests.

Health Benefits: Cod is a lean protein packed with nutrients. By using butter and herbs rather than heavy sauces, you’re making a lighter dish without sacrificing taste.

Endless Versatility: This recipe can adapt to various dietary preferences. You can alter the herbs and side dishes based on what you have on hand. Feel free to get creative!

Ingredients You’ll Need to Make This Dish

• 1 lemon, thinly sliced into rounds
• ½ teaspoon lemon zest (this boosts flavor)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (adds a nice tang)
• ½ teaspoon sweet paprika (for warmth)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh herbs such as parsley, chives, or thyme, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon high-quality extra virgin olive oil
• Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
• 4 cod fillets (6 ounces each), patted dry

How to Make Garlic Butter Baked Cod

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial. Starting with a properly heated oven ensures that the cod cooks evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Butter Mixture

In a medium bowl, combine the room-temperature butter, minced garlic, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, sweet paprika, and the fresh herbs. Mix everything until it forms a smooth paste. This mixture is where the magic begins.

Step 3: Season the Cod

Pat the cod fillets dry with a paper towel. This helps the butter mixture adhere better. Season both sides with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper.

Step 4: Assemble the Cod

Place the cod fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Spread the garlic butter mixture generously over the tops of each fillet. Add the lemon slices on top.

Step 5: Bake the Cod

Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The cooking time may vary, so keep an eye on it.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the cod from the oven. Let it sit for a couple of minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle beautifully.

Tips & Tricks

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and quality butter make all the difference. Don’t skimp on flavor by using subpar ingredients.

Don’t Overcook: Fish can become dry if overcooked. Keep a close watch towards the end of your cooking time.

Experiment with Aromatics: You can add shallots or even a splash of white wine to the butter mixture for added depth.

Add Heat (If You Like): A pinch of red pepper flakes can liven up the dish for those who enjoy a bit of spice.

Make it in a Foil Packet: For easy cleanup, try baking the fish in a foil packet with the butter mixture. Just fold the foil over to create a seal.

Nutrition Information

Garlic butter baked cod is not just delicious; it’s also nutritious. Here is a rough breakdown of the nutritional information for one serving (1 cod fillet without added sides):

This dish is a fantastic source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids, making it perfect for a balanced meal.

How Do You Store the Leftovers?

If you have any leftovers, don’t worry. Garlic butter baked cod stores well.

Cool Down: Allow the cod to cool to room temperature.

Store Properly: Place it in an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheat Gently: Reheat the cod gently in the oven or on the stovetop to maintain its tenderness. Avoid the microwave if possible, as this can dry it out.

What Sides Would Complement Garlic Butter Baked Cod?

Perfecting the meal experience means thinking about side dishes. Here are three great options:

Steamed Broccoli: Steamed broccoli adds a nice crunch. Drizzle a little olive oil and a squeeze of lemon for added zest. The earthy flavor balances the richness of the cod.

Sweet Potato Mash: Creamy sweet potato mash elevates the dish’s comfort level. The natural sweetness pairs perfectly with the savory garlic butter.

Quinoa Salad: A fresh quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast. It’s a lovely way to add extra nutrients without overly complicating the meal.

What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients if They Are Not Present in Your Kitchen?

Sometimes, you may find yourself short on ingredients. Here’s what you can do:

Cod: If you don’t have cod, other flaky fish like haddock or tilapia can work wonderfully too.

Unsalted Butter: In a pinch, you can use margarine or a plant-based butter alternative.

Fresh Herbs: Dried herbs can substitute fresh ones in a pinch. Use about one-third of the amount.

Dijon Mustard: If you’re out of Dijon, yellow mustard can work, though it has a milder flavor.

Conclusion

Garlic butter baked cod is not just a dish; it’s an experience waiting to be savored. The balance of flavors and the ease of preparation makes it a weeknight favorite in many households, including mine. Whether you match it with roasted vegetables, a refreshing salad, or creamy mash, the combination will delight your taste buds.

So go ahead, give it a try! You might just find yourself sharing this recipe with friends and family, creating your own delightful culinary stories. Happy cooking!

You Might Also Like These Latest Recipes!

• Grilled Chicken
• How to Make Sour Cream Recipe
• Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets Recipe