Buttery Lemon Cod Bake (Ready-to-Print Version)

Tender cod bakes with lemon, garlic, and butter for bright flavor and juicy texture in under 30 minutes.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Fish

01 - 1 1/2 pounds fresh cod fillets, cut into evenly sized pieces

→ Sauce

02 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
03 - 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
04 - 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
05 - 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
06 - 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
07 - 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
08 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ Garnish

09 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
10 - 1 lemon, cut into thin slices

# Step-by-Step Guide:

01 - Set the oven to 400°F and allow it to preheat fully. Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or line with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
02 - In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, olive oil, fresh lemon juice, grated lemon zest, and minced garlic until fully blended.
03 - Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Arrange them in a single layer in the prepared dish without overlapping. Season both sides with kosher salt and black pepper.
04 - Drizzle the lemon butter mixture evenly over each cod fillet, ensuring the surface is well coated.
05 - Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the cod is opaque, flakes easily with a fork, and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
06 - Remove the cod from the oven. Garnish with chopped parsley and lemon slices before serving.

# Handy Tips:

01 - Let the cod rest for 3 to 5 minutes after baking to help it retain moisture and reach optimal texture.
02 - Pat the cod dry before seasoning to help the sauce adhere and ensure flaky results.
03 - To achieve a golden finish, broil the fish during the last minute of baking.