These Garlic Butter Baked Cod Fillets are tender, flaky, and full of rich flavor. Baked in a garlic herb butter sauce, this simple and healthy dish is ready in under 30 minutes and perfect for busy weeknights.
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
Make Garlic Butter Sauce: In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Season and Bake: Place cod fillets in the dish and spoon the garlic butter mixture evenly over each. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Notes
Make Ahead: You can prepare the garlic butter sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just melt before use.
Customization: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat or swap thyme with dill for a twist.
Serving Ideas: Pair with roasted vegetables, steamed rice, or a crisp green salad.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the fish.
Allergy Note: This recipe is gluten-free. Make sure all ingredients (especially butter and seasonings) are certified gluten-free if needed.
Keyword baked cod fillets, easy seafood dinner, garlic butter cod, healthy fish recipe, oven baked fish