Description
This Lemon Butter Cod recipe features tender, flaky cod fillets seared to golden perfection and topped with a luscious lemon butter sauce. The delicate seasonings and fresh lemon juice elevate the natural flavor of the fish, making it a quick and elegant meal ideal for busy weeknights or special dinners. Ready in just 25 minutes, this dish combines savory spices, creamy butter, and bright citrus for a deliciously balanced seafood experience.
Ingredients
Scale
Cod 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
Cooking & 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
- Prepare Seasoning Mix: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, paprika, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and freshly ground black pepper until fully combined.
- Coat the Cod: Evenly sprinkle and spread the flour and spice mixture over both sides of each cod fillet, ensuring the entire surface is coated with the seasoning blend.
- Heat Butter and Oil: Melt 1 tablespoon of butter along with 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat, preparing the pan for searing the fish.
- Sear the Cod Fillets: Add the seasoned cod fillets to the hot skillet and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until the fish is golden brown and cooked through, easily flaking with a fork when done. Transfer the cooked fillets to serving plates.
- Prepare Lemon Butter Sauce: Reduce the burner temperature to medium-low and melt the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter in the same skillet used for cooking the fish.
- Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté briefly, just until fragrant and lightly deepened in color, about 15 seconds, taking care not to brown the garlic.
- Finish the Sauce: Remove the skillet from heat and carefully stir in the low-sodium chicken broth and fresh lemon juice, watching for steam as you combine the ingredients.
- Serve: Immediately pour the warm lemon butter sauce over the cod fillets, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for garnish, and serve while warm.
Notes
- Ensure the skillet is hot before adding the cod to achieve a perfect sear.
- Do not overcook the cod; it should flake easily but still be moist.
- Adjust seasoning to taste based on your salt and spice preferences.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best bright, citrus flavor.
- Chicken broth can be substituted with vegetable broth for a lighter option.
