Print

Lemon Butter Cod Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.2 from 7 reviews

This Lemon Butter Cod recipe features tender, flaky cod fillets pan-seared to golden perfection and topped with a luscious garlic lemon butter sauce. Infused with a delicate blend of herbs and spices, this quick and easy stovetop dish is perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner that pairs well with steamed vegetables or rice.

  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Salt

Ingredients

Fish and Seasoning

  • 4 (6 oz each) cod fillets, skinless, about 1-inch thick
  • 1 Tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/4 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 3/4 tsp salt, or to taste
  • 3/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Butter Sauce

  • 5 Tbsp Danish Creamery Butter, cut into 1 Tbsp pieces, divided
  • 1 Tbsp olive oil
  • 1 Tbsp minced garlic
  • 1 1/2 Tbsp low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 1/2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Prepare the seasoning mix: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, paprika, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and freshly ground black pepper until well combined.
  2. Coat the cod fillets: Sprinkle and spread the flour mixture evenly over both sides of the cod fillets, making sure to use up the entire mixture for full flavor coverage.
  3. Heat butter and oil: In a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter together with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to create a flavorful cooking base.
  4. Sear the cod: Add the seasoned cod fillets to the hot skillet and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. The fish should flake easily with a fork when done. Transfer the fillets to serving plates.
  5. Lower heat and melt remaining butter: Reduce the burner temperature to medium-low and melt the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter in the same skillet.
  6. Sauté garlic: Add the minced garlic to the butter and sauté just until fragrant and lightly deepened in color, about 15 seconds, taking care not to let it brown.
  7. Add broth and lemon juice: Remove the skillet from heat and carefully pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and fresh lemon juice. Stir gently as it steams to form the tangy butter sauce.
  8. Serve: Immediately pour the lemon butter sauce over the cooked cod fillets. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm for a delicious, aromatic finish.

Notes

  • Ensure the cod fillets are about 1-inch thick for even cooking.
  • Use fresh lemon juice for the best vibrant flavor in the sauce.
  • Do not overcook the cod to maintain its flaky, tender texture.
  • Feel free to substitute low-sodium vegetable broth for chicken broth for a pescatarian option.
  • Serve with steamed vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes to complement the dish.