Lemon Garlic Butter Cod – Easy 20-Minute Dinner Recipe

Name: Lemon Garlic Butter Cod
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cod fillets (about 5 oz each, fresh or thawed from frozen); Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (optional, for dredging); 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided; 3 garlic cloves, minced (about 1 tablespoon); 1 large lemon, zested and juiced (about 2 tablespoons juice, 1 teaspoon zest); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley); Lemon slices, for garnish (optional); Extra parsley or chives, for garnish (optional)

Posted on September 4, 2025

lemon garlic butter cod - featured image

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

That first sizzle when lemon garlic butter hits a hot pan and fills the kitchen with a citrusy, savory aroma—yeah, that’s the moment I know dinner’s going to be good. Last spring, I stumbled on this lemon garlic butter cod recipe after a long day when I wanted something delicious but couldn’t face another complicated meal. I had a few fillets of cod in the fridge, a sad-looking lemon, and half a stick of butter calling my name. (You know how it is. When life hands you lemons, make dinner!)

Honestly, cod wasn’t always my go-to seafood. I grew up on salmon and shrimp, but once I tried this lemon garlic butter combo with cod, I was hooked. The flaky texture, mild flavor, and how easily it soaks up zesty, garlicky goodness—this fish is a blank canvas just waiting to be transformed. Plus, it’s done in 20 minutes, which is a lifesaver for busy weeknights when everyone’s hungry (and patience is thin).

Whether you’re a seafood lover or just want to shake up your dinner routine, this lemon garlic butter cod is a recipe I’ve tested, tweaked, and shared with friends more times than I can count. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo cooks who want a restaurant-worthy dish with zero fuss. I always say you don’t need fancy ingredients or chef-level skills—just a handful of pantry staples and a good squeeze of fresh lemon. So if you’re looking for an easy, irresistible cod recipe that brings flavor and comfort to the table, you’re in the right place!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy: Ready in about 20 minutes—less time than it takes to order takeout! Perfect for those hectic evenings when you want a satisfying meal fast.
Simple Ingredients: No need for a trip to a specialty market. Most of what you need is probably sitting in your kitchen right now—cod fillets, lemon, garlic, butter, and a few seasonings.
Perfect for Any Occasion: This lemon garlic butter cod shines at weeknight dinners but also feels fancy enough for date night or when you’re hosting friends. I’ve served it with a glass of white wine for impromptu celebrations.
Crowd-Pleaser: Kids love its mild flavor, and adults rave about the zesty, buttery sauce. I’ve taken it to potlucks, and it’s always the first dish gone.
Unbelievably Delicious: The combo of lemon, garlic, and butter isn’t just classic—it’s crave-worthy. The cod turns out flaky and tender, soaking up all the flavors in each bite.

What makes this lemon garlic butter cod recipe stand out from the rest? I blend the butter with minced garlic and lemon zest, then let the fillets simmer gently so every piece gets coated in the sauce. Unlike some recipes that just pour everything over at the end, this method infuses the fish with flavor from the inside out. I’ve tried adding a splash of white wine or swapping in fresh herbs; honestly, the base recipe is so good, it’s hard to mess up.

This isn’t just comfort food—it’s the kind of dish that makes you close your eyes and appreciate every bite. Good for your mood, good for your taste buds, and surprisingly light on the waistline. If you want to impress guests without breaking a sweat or just turn a simple dinner into something memorable, this lemon garlic butter cod delivers every time. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this one in your regular rotation!

Ingredients Needed

This recipe uses everyday, wholesome ingredients that come together for bold flavor and a melt-in-your-mouth texture. No need to hunt for anything fancy—most of these items are pantry staples. If you’re missing something, I’ll share easy swaps that work just as well.

For the Cod:
- 4 cod fillets (about 5 oz/140g each, fresh or thawed from frozen)
- Salt (to taste, I like a generous pinch for seasoning)
- Black pepper (freshly ground adds the best flavor)
- All-purpose flour (about 1/4 cup/30g, for light dredging—optional but helps with browning)
For the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (42g, divided—some for the pan, some for finishing)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced, about 1 tablespoon)
- 1 large lemon (zested and juiced—about 2 tablespoons juice, 1 teaspoon zest)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (15ml, helps prevent burning and adds richness)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley, for color and brightness)
Optional Garnish:
- Lemon slices (for serving, looks gorgeous and adds even more citrus)
- Extra parsley or chives (for a pop of green)

Ingredient Tips: I recommend using fresh cod if you can get it—look for fillets that are firm, bright white, and smell clean. Frozen works just fine too (just thaw thoroughly and pat dry). For butter, I like using European-style for a richer sauce but any unsalted butter is good. My favorite garlic is the big, juicy cloves—makes mincing easier! If you need gluten-free, swap the flour for almond flour or skip it altogether.

If you want to mix things up, try adding a splash of dry white wine to the sauce or toss in a few capers for a briny kick. During summer, I love adding fresh dill instead of parsley. For dairy-free, use vegan butter and olive oil—still totally delicious. This cod recipe is flexible, so don’t stress if you need to make swaps!

Equipment Needed

Large skillet or sauté pan: Nonstick or stainless steel works best. I’ve found cast iron gives a beautiful crust, but you need to watch the heat.
Tongs or spatula: For flipping the delicate cod fillets. I prefer silicone spatulas—they’re gentle and easy to clean.
Microplane or fine grater: For zesting the lemon. If you don’t have one, a sharp knife works (just chop the peel very fine).
Citrus juicer or reamer: Handy for squeezing every drop from your lemon—using your hands works too!
Measuring spoons and cups: For accuracy. Don’t stress if you eyeball the butter or oil—this recipe is forgiving.
Paper towels: To pat dry cod fillets (makes all the difference for browning).

If you don’t have a skillet, you can bake the cod in a casserole dish—just pour the sauce over and bake at 400°F/200°C for about 12-15 minutes. For budget-friendly options, I’ve used a basic nonstick pan for years, and it’s never let me down. Just be sure to wash and dry your skillet well after cooking fish to avoid lingering smells (learned that the hard way!).

Keeping your microplane sharp and rinsing it right after zesting lemons helps it last ages. If you’re just starting out, don’t worry about fancy gadgets—this lemon garlic butter cod recipe is all about making the most of what you’ve got!

Preparation Method

Prep the Cod Fillets:

Pat cod fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper. If using flour, lightly dredge each fillet in flour, shaking off excess. (This helps create a golden crust, but you can skip it for a lighter dish.)
Make the Lemon Garlic Butter:

In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons butter (28g), minced garlic, lemon zest, and half the chopped parsley. Reserve the last tablespoon of butter for finishing.
Heat the Pan:

Place your skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter (14g). Wait until the butter melts and starts to foam—should take about 1 minute. If it browns too quickly, lower the heat.
Sear the Cod:

Add cod fillets to the pan, presentation side down. Cook for 2-3 minutes until lightly golden and edges start to turn opaque. (If your pan is small, work in batches so the fillets don’t crowd and steam.)
Flip and Add Sauce:

Carefully flip each fillet with tongs or a spatula. Spoon the lemon garlic butter mixture over the fish. Cook another 2-4 minutes, basting with sauce and tilting the pan so the butter coats each piece. Cod should be opaque and flake easily with a fork.
Finish with Lemon Juice:

Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fillets. Add the reserved tablespoon of butter and let it melt into the sauce. Sprinkle with remaining parsley. (The sauce should be glossy and fragrant!)
Check for Doneness:

Cod is done when it flakes easily and is opaque throughout. If unsure, use a thermometer—145°F/63°C in the thickest part is perfect.
Plate and Serve:

Transfer fillets to plates and spoon over more sauce. Garnish with lemon slices and extra herbs. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.

Prep Notes: If your cod is very thick, add 1-2 minutes extra cooking time. For thinner fillets, check after 4 minutes total so you don’t overcook. Cod can go from perfect to dry fast, so keep an eye out for those juicy flakes! If your sauce separates, whisk in a splash of water or broth—works every time.

I’ve learned to prep all my ingredients before heating the pan—cod cooks fast, and you don’t want to scramble for lemon juice at the last minute. (Trust me, I’ve been there!) The aroma of garlic sizzling in butter is your cue that things are about to get really tasty.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Getting lemon garlic butter cod just right is all about technique. Here’s what I’ve learned from dozens of batches:

Start with Dry Cod: Pat those fillets dry! Wet fish won’t brown, and the sauce won’t cling. I used to skip this and wondered why my cod was soggy—lesson learned.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cod releases steam as it cooks. If fillets are packed too close, you’ll end up with steamed fish instead of a beautiful golden crust. Use a large skillet or cook in batches.
Low and Slow for Sauce: Butter burns if the pan’s too hot. Medium heat lets the garlic infuse without turning bitter. If you notice browning, lift the pan off the heat for a few seconds.
Baste for Flavor: Tilt the pan and spoon the lemon garlic butter over the fish as it cooks. This keeps the cod moist and packs in flavor. (It’s a trick I picked up from watching restaurant chefs.)
Lemon Juice at the End: Add fresh lemon juice right before serving—keeps the flavors bright and prevents bitterness. If you add it too soon, the acid can toughen the fish.
Watch for Flaking: Cod cooks quickly. Once it flakes easily, pull it from the heat. Overcooked cod gets dry, and no amount of butter can save it.
Multitasking: While the cod cooks, prep your sides (rice, veggies, salad). The sauce can be doubled and drizzled over anything—seriously, it’s that good!

Common mistakes? Rushing the sauce (burnt garlic = no fun), skipping the flour dredge (less browning), or letting the fish sit in the pan too long. I’ve made all these errors, and honestly, the recipe is forgiving—but the little tricks above make all the difference.

Consistency is key: same pan, same heat, same sequence every time. If you’re new to seafood, this cod recipe is a confidence booster. You’ll get better with each try!

Variations & Adaptations

Lemon garlic butter cod is super versatile, so don’t be afraid to make it your own! Here are some favorite spins:

Low-Carb & Gluten-Free: Ditch the flour or swap for almond flour. Still get that light crust without any gluten—great for guests with dietary needs.
Herb Lovers: Stir in fresh dill, basil, or thyme instead of parsley. I’ve tried rosemary, but the flavor can get strong—use sparingly.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to the butter sauce. Gives the cod a gentle heat that pairs well with lemon.
Baked Version: Place cod in a baking dish, pour over the sauce, and bake at 400°F/200°C for 12-15 minutes. Easy for feeding a crowd, and the fish stays moist.
Allergen-Friendly: For dairy-free, use vegan butter and extra olive oil. For garlic allergies (yes, they happen!), try shallots or green onions for a milder flavor.
Seasonal Swap: In summer, add cherry tomatoes or zucchini rounds to the pan. In winter, toss in capers or olives for a Mediterranean twist.

My personal favorite? I sometimes add a splash of white wine to the sauce and a little fresh dill for a springtime flavor. It’s always a hit at dinner parties, and people ask for the recipe every time. Feel free to experiment—cod is forgiving, and the lemon garlic butter brings out the best in almost any variation!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This lemon garlic butter cod tastes best served hot, right out of the skillet. I love plating each fillet on a bed of steamed rice or fluffy mashed potatoes, then drizzling leftovers of the sauce on top. A sprinkle of fresh parsley and a wedge of lemon make things look extra inviting.

For sides, consider roasted asparagus, sautéed spinach, or a crisp green salad. A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or sparkling water with lemon is perfect alongside. This cod is light enough for lunch but satisfying for dinner.

Storing leftovers? Cool the cod completely, then transfer to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in a covered skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving—cod can get rubbery if overheated. You can freeze cooked cod for up to 1 month, but the texture changes a bit. I prefer eating it fresh whenever possible.

As the cod sits, the flavors deepen and the sauce thickens—sometimes I think it’s even better the next day! Just don’t let it linger too long; seafood is happiest when enjoyed fresh.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This lemon garlic butter cod is a lighter main course, packed with lean protein and healthy fats. Each serving (about 5 oz/140g cod with sauce) delivers roughly:

Calories: 260
Protein: 24g
Fat: 15g
Carbs: 4g (mostly from flour, skip for low-carb!)

Cod is low in mercury, high in B vitamins, and offers a good dose of selenium and omega-3s. The lemon adds vitamin C, while the garlic is known for heart health benefits. If you’re watching sodium, use unsalted butter and season lightly. For gluten-free diets, use almond flour or skip flour entirely.

Allergens to note: cod (fish), butter (dairy), and flour (gluten). For dairy or gluten allergies, swaps are easy. Personally, I love this recipe as part of my healthy eating routine—satisfying, nutritious, and never boring!

Conclusion

If you’re searching for an easy, flavorful seafood recipe, this lemon garlic butter cod is honestly one of the best. It’s quick, fuss-free, and delivers maximum taste with minimum effort. Whether you’re new to cooking fish or a seasoned seafood lover, this cod recipe fits right in—comforting, fresh, and just a little fancy.

Don’t be afraid to tweak the ingredients or adapt it for your own tastes. I’ve made it with fresh dill, swapped in vegan butter, and even added tomatoes in summer—all tasty! What keeps me coming back is how reliably delicious it is, no matter what I change.

Give it a try, and let me know how you make it your own. Leave a comment, share your photos, or tag a friend who needs a new dinner idea. I can’t wait to hear how your lemon garlic butter cod turns out—here’s to happy cooking and even happier eating!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen cod for this lemon garlic butter cod recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat dry before cooking. Frozen cod works great and is often more budget-friendly.

What sides go best with lemon garlic butter cod?

I love serving it with rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted veggies. A green salad or steamed asparagus is also fantastic for a lighter meal.

How do I know when cod is cooked through?

Cod is done when it’s opaque and flakes easily with a fork. For extra accuracy, use a thermometer—145°F/63°C in the thickest part is perfect.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Simply swap the butter for vegan butter and add a bit more olive oil. The sauce will still be rich and flavorful.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be! Skip the flour or use almond flour for dredging. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so it’s easy to adapt.

Pin This Recipe!

lemon garlic butter cod recipe