If you’re looking for a dish that’s both elegant and incredibly easy to whip up, the Broiled Cod with Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce Recipe will quickly become your new favorite. This recipe brings together tender, flaky cod fillets with a bright, zesty lemon butter garlic sauce that sings with flavor. The combination of sizzling garlic, fresh lemon, and buttery richness creates a perfect balance that feels like a special treat even on an ordinary weeknight. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll want to make it again and again!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Broiled Cod with Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a key role in building layers of flavor and creating a perfectly textured dish that’s as vibrant as it is comforting.
- 1 pound cod fillets (4 fillets): Choose fresh, firm fillets for the best flaky texture and mild flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the fish without overpowering it.
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper: Adds a subtle kick to balance the richness of the butter.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Provides a silky base for the sauce that brings everything together.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the dish with warm, aromatic notes that brighten the butter.
- 1 tablespoon fresh squeezed lemon juice: Adds a bright, citrusy tang that cuts through the richness.
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest: Intensifies the lemon flavor with fresh, fragrant oils.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (minced): Offers a fresh, herbaceous finish and a pop of color.
How to Make Broiled Cod with Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Broiler
Start by turning on your oven’s broiler. This high heat will cook the cod quickly and give it a lovely golden finish. Make sure to set your rack about 4 to 6 inches from the broiler element for even cooking.
Step 2: Season the Cod Fillets
Pat your cod fillets dry using a paper towel—this helps the seasoning stick and ensures a good sear. Sprinkle both sides evenly with salt and pepper to create a simple, flavorful base.
Step 3: Prepare the Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce
In a cast iron or oven-proof skillet, melt your butter over medium-high heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for just 30 seconds to release its fragrance—be careful not to let it brown. Then stir in the fresh lemon juice and zest. This sauce will become the delicious poaching liquid for your cod, infusing it with bright and buttery flavors.
Step 4: Brown the Cod Fillets
Place the seasoned cod fillets gently into the skillet. Let them cook undisturbed for about one minute on the first side to develop a slight sear. Carefully flip the fillets over to coat them in the lemon butter sauce.
Step 5: Broil the Cod to Perfection
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven rack positioned close to the broiler. Broil the cod for 6 to 9 minutes until it reaches an internal temperature of about 130-140°F. The fish should flake easily with a fork but still be moist and tender.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the oven and sprinkle the cod with freshly minced parsley. If you love an extra burst of citrus, add some lemon slices or wedges for squeezing. Serve immediately while everything is warm and juicy — you’re about to enjoy one wonderful meal!
How to Serve Broiled Cod with Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly minced parsley is a must for its herbal brightness and vibrant green color. A scattering of lemon zest or a few thin lemon slices makes for a lively presentation and an extra splash of fresh citrus flavor right at the table.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with light, fresh sides like steamed asparagus, roasted baby potatoes, or a crisp mixed green salad. Each accompaniment brings balance to the buttery cod, ensuring the meal feels both hearty and refreshing.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the cod fillets atop a bed of creamy polenta or alongside garlic-infused quinoa for a rustic twist. For a colorful plate, add roasted cherry tomatoes or sautéed spinach on the side—they’ll complement the lemon butter garlic sauce perfectly and make your meal Instagram-worthy!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover broiled cod should be cooled to room temperature, then stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 1 to 2 days to preserve its delicate texture and fresh flavors.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked cod fillets, though the texture may change slightly upon thawing. Wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Use within 1 month for optimal taste and quality.
Reheating
When reheating, do so gently to avoid drying out the cod. Warm the fillets in a low oven (around 275°F) for 10-15 minutes or use a microwave on a low power setting. Adding a splash of lemon juice or an extra dab of butter before reheating helps keep the fish moist and flavorful.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw the cod fillets and pat them dry before seasoning and cooking. This helps prevent excess moisture from interfering with that perfect sear and broil.
What if I don’t have a cast iron or ovenproof skillet?
You can use any oven-safe dish or pan, but using a heavy skillet helps develop a better sear and allows you to cook the sauce and fish together seamlessly.
Can I substitute lemon juice with another citrus?
Yes! Fresh lime or orange juice can offer a tasty twist, but lemon’s brightness pairs best with the buttery garlic sauce for that classic balance.
How do I know when the cod is done?
The cod should be opaque all the way through and flake easily with a fork. Using a thermometer, look for an internal temperature around 130-140°F for the best tender texture.
Is this recipe good for a dinner party?
Definitely! It’s elegant yet simple, perfect for impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Just prepare the sauce and seasonings ahead, then broil the cod right before serving.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Broiled Cod with Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce Recipe that makes it a crowd-pleaser every time. It’s quick, requires few ingredients, and delivers restaurant-quality flavors that feel luxurious without the fuss. Give it a try, and I promise this will become a beloved staple for your seafood nights. Happy cooking!
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Broiled Cod with Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Broiling
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Broiled Cod with Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce is a quick and flavorful seafood dish perfect for a weeknight dinner. Tender cod fillets are seasoned and cooked in a luscious garlic butter sauce, then broiled to perfection for a light, flaky texture. The fresh lemon juice and zest add a bright zing, making this recipe both simple and elegant.
Ingredients
Fish
- 1 pound cod fillets (4 fillets)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon fresh squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (minced)
Instructions
- Preheat the Broiler: Turn on your oven’s broiler and allow it to heat up while you prepare the fish.
- Season the Cod: Pat the cod fillets dry using a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Season both sides evenly with salt and pepper.
- Prepare the Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce: In a cast iron or oven-safe skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in fresh lemon juice and lemon zest to combine.
- Cook the Cod: Place the seasoned cod fillets in the skillet with the butter garlic sauce. Cook for approximately 1 minute on one side to sear slightly, then carefully flip each fillet over to coat with sauce.
- Broil the Cod: Transfer the skillet to the oven, situating it 4 to 6 inches below the broiler element. Broil the cod for 6 to 9 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 130-140°F and the fish is opaque and flakes easily.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven and sprinkle the cod with minced fresh parsley. Optionally, serve with additional lemon slices on the side. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh cod fillets and avoid overcooking to keep them tender.
- Use a cast iron or any oven-proof skillet to cook on the stovetop and finish under the broiler safely.
- Adjust broiling time depending on your oven’s heat intensity and thickness of fillets.
- Fresh parsley and lemon zest enhance the brightness of the dish – don’t skip them!
- Internal temperature should be taken with a food thermometer for perfect doneness.
