Description

Crispy-edged, buttery-tender, and bursting with garlicky flavor — this Garlic Butter Cod recipe is the perfect mix of simplicity and indulgence. It’s quick to make, incredibly satisfying, and ideal for anyone looking for easy dinner ideas, a healthy snack, or a light and elegant meal. Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this easy recipe is a flavor-packed winner that pairs beautifully with a wide variety of sides. It’s one of the best food ideas for seafood lovers!

Ingredients

4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each), skinless and boneless

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

4 garlic cloves, finely minced or grated

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

1 teaspoon lemon zest

1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

1 tablespoon olive oil

Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

1. Pat cod fillets completely dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.

2. In a small saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in parsley, lemon zest, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes. Keep warm.

3. Heat olive oil in a cast iron or nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Place cod fillets in the hot pan.

4. Sear for 3–4 minutes without moving until a golden crust forms.

5. Flip the cod gently and spoon warm garlic butter over each piece. Cook another 2–3 minutes until the fish flakes easily.

6. Transfer to plates, pour over remaining garlic butter, and serve immediately with lemon wedges.

Notes

Use fresh cod for best texture, but fully thawed frozen fillets also work well.

For a crispier crust, lightly flour the fillets before searing.

Don’t flip the fish too early — it naturally releases from the pan when ready.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Pan-seared
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 fillet
Calories: 280
Sugar: 0g
Sodium: 180mg
Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 2g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 28g
Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: garlic butter cod, quick dinner, easy recipe, seafood ideas, keto fish, healthy dinner