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Lemon Butter Cod Recipe

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4.2 from 70 reviews

This Lemon Butter Cod recipe features tender, flaky cod fillets perfectly seared and topped with a rich, flavorful lemon butter sauce infused with garlic and fresh parsley. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s a simple yet elegant dish ideal for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients

For the Cod and Seasoning

  • 4 (6 oz each) cod fillets, skinless, about 1-inch thick
  • 1 Tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/4 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 3/4 tsp salt, or to taste
  • 3/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

For the Sauce

  • 5 Tbsp Danish Creamery Butter, cut into 1 Tbsp pieces, divided
  • 1 Tbsp olive oil
  • 1 Tbsp minced garlic
  • 1 1/2 Tbsp low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 1/2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Mix Seasoning: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, paprika, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to create a well-blended seasoning mixture.
  2. Coat Cod Fillets: Evenly sprinkle and spread the flour mixture over both sides of each cod fillet, ensuring all fillets are coated with the seasoning.
  3. Sear Cod: Heat 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the coated cod fillets and sear for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. The fish should flake easily with a fork when done. Remove cod from skillet and plate.
  4. Prepare Sauce Base: Lower the burner heat to medium-low. In the same skillet, melt the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter, allowing the flavors from the pan to incorporate.
  5. Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté just until fragrant and slightly deepened in color, approximately 15 seconds, taking care not to burn the garlic.
  6. Add Liquids: Remove the skillet from heat. Carefully pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and fresh lemon juice, stirring gently to combine. Be cautious as the mixture will steam.
  7. Serve: Immediately pour the lemon butter sauce over the cooked cod fillets. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm for best flavor.

Notes

  • Use fresh lemon juice for the best bright and tangy flavor in the sauce.
  • If preferred, you can substitute low-sodium vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a lighter flavor.
  • Ensure the skillet is hot before searing the fish to achieve a nice golden crust.
  • Do not overcook the cod; it should flake easily and remain moist inside.
  • For a dairy-free variation, substitute butter with a plant-based margarine and skip or replace cheese-based ingredients if any are used.
  • Serve the cod with steamed vegetables or over rice to complete the meal.

Find it online: https://justsosavory.com/lemon-butter-cod-recipe-2/