Name: Broiled Cod with Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound cod fillets (4 fillets); 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon pepper; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tablespoon fresh squeezed lemon juice; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (minced)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe· 3.9 from 90 reviews

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When it comes to fresh, flavorful seafood dishes that feel both elegant and effortless, this Broiled Cod with Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce Recipe absolutely steals the spotlight. The tender, flaky cod cooked under the broiler develops just the right hint of caramelization, while the luscious lemon butter garlic sauce brightens every bite with silky richness and vibrant citrus notes. This recipe is not only a quick weeknight winner but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that transforms simple ingredients into a sensational meal worth savoring.

Broiled Cod with Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the simplicity of these ingredients fool you — each one plays a starring role in making this dish pop with flavor, texture, and fresh appeal. From buttery depth to zesty brightness, every element complements the cod perfectly.

1 pound cod fillets (4 fillets): Fresh, flaky cod is ideal for quick broiling and soaking up sauce.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the fish without overpowering.
1/4 teaspoon pepper: Adds a gentle peppery kick to balance the buttery sauce.
4 tablespoons unsalted butter: The base of the sauce, offering a rich, creamy texture.
4 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses aromatic, bold flavor into the butter.
1 tablespoon fresh squeezed lemon juice: Brightens up the sauce with fresh acidity.
1 teaspoon lemon zest: Provides an intense burst of citrus oil and fragrance.
2 tablespoons fresh parsley (minced): Adds color and a fresh herbaceous note at the end.

How to Make Broiled Cod with Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Broiler and Season the Cod

Start by turning on your oven’s broiler and letting it preheat so it’s nice and hot. Meanwhile, pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels — this helps ensure a beautiful sear and prevents sogginess. Sprinkle salt and pepper evenly over both sides of each fillet to season them perfectly.

Step 2: Create the Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce

In an oven-safe skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. As soon as it’s melted and shimmering, add the minced garlic and let it simmer gently for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Stir in fresh lemon juice and zest, which will give your sauce a fresh and tangy lift that balances the butter’s richness wonderfully.

Step 3: Sear the Cod Briefly on the Stovetop

Gently place the seasoned cod fillets into the skillet with the lemon garlic butter. Let them cook for about one minute so they develop a light crust on the bottom before flipping them carefully to the other side. This quick sear helps lock in moisture and flavor.

Step 4: Broil the Cod to Perfection

Transfer your skillet directly under the broiler, positioning it 4 to 6 inches from the heat source. Let the cod broil for about 6 to 9 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature between 130 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit. You’ll know it’s ready when the fish flakes easily with a fork and looks beautifully opaque.

Step 5: Finish with Fresh Parsley and Serve

Once out of the oven, sprinkle the cod fillets with freshly minced parsley for a pop of vibrant green and fresh flavor. If you like, add extra lemon slices on the side for guests to squeeze over their fish for an added burst of brightness.

How to Serve Broiled Cod with Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley does wonders to elevate the presentation and add a subtle hint of herbiness. Thin lemon slices or wedges not only look gorgeous alongside the cod but also allow everyone to customize the citrus level to their taste.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with light, fresh sides. Think buttery mashed potatoes, fluffy quinoa, or a crisp green salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette. Steamed asparagus or sautéed green beans also add nice textural contrast and round out the meal perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, serve the cod on a bed of wilted spinach drizzled with extra lemon butter sauce. Alternatively, place the fillets on individual plates garnished with microgreens or edible flowers for a refined touch. Serving it family-style on a large platter encourages sharing and conversation around the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftover Broiled Cod with Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce Recipe, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best eaten within 2 days to maintain the fish’s delicate texture and the sauce’s fresh flavor.

Freezing

Freezing cooked cod with lemon butter garlic sauce is not recommended as the texture of the fish may suffer upon thawing and the sauce could separate. For best results, freeze the raw cod separately if needed, then prepare fresh sauce when ready to cook.

Reheating

To gently reheat, place leftovers covered loosely with foil in a 275°F oven for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can dry out the fish and break the smooth texture of the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of fish for this recipe?

Absolutely! While cod is ideal for its flaky texture, you can substitute with halibut, haddock, or even sea bass. Just keep a close eye while broiling, as cooking times may vary depending on thickness.

Is there a way to make the sauce dairy-free?

Yes! Simply swap the unsalted butter for olive oil or a vegan butter substitute to keep that rich mouthfeel without dairy. The lemon and garlic will still shine beautifully.

How can I tell when the cod is perfectly cooked?

Cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork and turns opaque throughout. Using a meat thermometer, an internal temperature of 130-140°F ensures perfectly moist, tender fish without overcooking.

Can I prepare this recipe on a grill instead of an oven broiler?

Yes, grilling the cod can work well. Be sure your grill grates are clean and well-oiled to prevent sticking. Use a grill-safe pan or foil to hold the lemon butter garlic sauce and watch carefully so the fish doesn’t overcook.

What if I don’t have fresh lemons or parsley?

For the best flavor, fresh lemons and parsley are recommended, but in a pinch, bottled lemon juice and dried parsley can be used. Just reduce the quantities slightly to avoid overpowering the delicate fish.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about how the Broiled Cod with Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce Recipe transforms simple ingredients into a plate that feels both luxurious and homey. It’s quick enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for guests, making it a go-to recipe that you’ll want to make again and again. Give it a try — I promise this bright, buttery, garlicky fish will quickly become one of your favorites too.

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