Learn how to make this incredible Lemon Butter Pan Seared Cod recipe! Tender, flaky cod fillets are pan-seared and covered in a rich garlic butter sauce. This 20-minute cod recipe is perfect for any night of the week.
I mean, what’s not to love about an easy, refreshing, and delicious cod recipe? With its tangy lemon butter sauce and tender fillets, this dish is a winner for busy weeknights, and it’s versatile enough to pair perfectly with your favorite sides, making it a go-to option whenever you need a quick and satisfying meal.
So, try this tasty pan-seared cod, with tender fillets cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce. It’s a simple 20-minute cod recipe, served perfectly with a creamy garlic butter sauce.
We got into the habit of cooking fish at least twice a week. I often make our favorite pan seared halibut, pan seared salmon, this incredibly delicious cream cheese baked salmon, or make a bunch of these salmon patties or tuna cakes.
Why You Should Try This Pan Seared Cod Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: Each Lemon Butter Pan Seared Cod bite is packed with tangy lemon and rich buttery goodness.
- Quick and Easy: With just a few steps, you can whip up this mouthwatering dish in no time, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Tender and Juicy: The cod fillets are cooked to golden perfection, ensuring they’re tender and juicy with every bite.
- Versatile Recipe: Whether served with roasted vegetables, salad, or rice, this cod dish complements a variety of sides for a satisfying meal.
- Light and Healthy: Lemon Butter Pan Seared Cod is a nutritious option, offering lean protein and healthy fats without sacrificing flavor.
- One-Pan Recipe: Only one skillet is needed for cooking, so cleanup is a breeze, leaving you more time to enjoy your meal.
Ingredients Needed
You’ll only need a few inexpensive and easily accessible ingredients for this cod recipe. Here is everything you need:
- Cod Fillets – Choose fresh cod fillets for the best flavor and texture. Ensure the fillets are properly thawed if using frozen ones, and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Garlic Powder – Fresh minced garlic cloves can be used for a stronger garlic flavor.
- Paprika – Adds a subtle smoky flavor and vibrant color.
- Salt&Pepper – Enhance the flavors from this cod recipe.
- Olive Oil – You can also use avocado oil.
For The Lemon Butter Sauce
- Lemon – Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.
- Butter – Adds richness and creaminess to the sauce. I used unsalted butter.
- Parsley – Adds freshness and a pop of color to the dish.
- Garlic – Enhances flavor with its aromatic and strong flavor.
- Salt & Pepper: Season to taste.
How To Pan Sear Cod
Even though it may look impressive, this lemon butter pan-seared cod recipe is quick and easy to prepare without cooking skills. Here are the instructions that you have to follow:
Prepare and Season the Cod Fillets
Start by patting dry the cod fillets with paper towels. Removing excess moisture ensures a crisp sear.
Combine the seasoning mixture in a small bowl, along with the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Season both sides of the cod fillet generously with the seasoning mixture, ensuring even coverage.
Cook The Cod Fillets on The Stove
Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Heat the olive oil until it shimmers, indicating it’s hot enough for searing but not smoking.
Carefully place the seasoned cod fillets into the hot skillet.
Allow the fillets to cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes on each side or until they develop a golden crust and are opaque throughout. Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the fillets to ensure they are cooked through.
Once the cod fillets are cooked, transfer them to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm while you prepare the lemon butter sauce.
Make The Best Lemon Butter Sauce
In the same skillet used to cook the cod, add minced garlic. Cook the garlic over medium heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly golden.
Add the melted butter to the skillet, followed by the lemon zest and juice.
Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste, stirring well to combine. Allow the sauce to simmer for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it slightly thickens and becomes glossy.
Return the cooked cod fillets to the skillet, spooning the lemon butter sauce over them to coat evenly.
Heat for an additional minute, allowing the cod fillets to absorb the flavors of the sauce.
Serve the Lemon Butter Pan Seared Cod
Remove the skillet from heat and transfer the cod fillets to serving plates.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
Serve immediately and enjoy the flavorful and tender lemon butter pan-seared cod!
Tips For Making The Best Lemon Butter Pan-Seared Cod Recipe
- Use Fresh Cod: Fresh cod fillets will result in the best flavor and texture. Look for fillets that are firm, moist, and have a mild odor.
- Pat Dry: Before seasoning the cod, make sure to pat it dry with paper towels. Moisture on the surface of the fish can prevent it from achieving a crispy sear.
- Hot Pan: Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the cod fillets. A hot pan ensures a good sear and prevents the fish from sticking.
- Don’t Crowd the Pan: To prevent the fish from steaming instead of searing, avoid overcrowding the pan with too many fillets at once. Cook the fish in batches if necessary.
- Don’t Move the Fish: Once you’ve placed the cod fillets in the skillet, resist the temptation to move them around. Let them cook undisturbed for a few minutes on each side to develop a golden-brown crust.
- Use Fresh Lemon: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and lemon zest add a bright, citrusy flavor to the dish. Avoid using bottled lemon juice for the best results.
Recipe Variations
- Herb-Crusted Cod: Before searing, coat the cod fillets with breadcrumbs and finely chopped fresh herbs such as parsley, thyme, or dill. This adds an extra layer of flavor and a crunchy texture to the fish.
- Spicy Lemon Butter Cod: For a kick of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the lemon butter sauce. You can also incorporate minced jalapeños or serrano peppers for more intense heat.
- Herby Butter: Infuse the lemon butter sauce with additional herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or basil, along with minced garlic, for a fragrant and flavorful twist.
Serving Ideas
When I make Lemon Butter Pan Seared Cod, my family loves these sides:
How To Store
- Fridge: You can store this cod in an airtight container in the fridge for about 5 days.
- Freezer: If you want to freeze the cod, put the fillet in a single layer on a baking sheet. Then put the whole baking sheet in a freezer. Transfer the fillets to freezer-safe plastic bags once they’ve been frozen.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Know When The Cod Is Cooked Through?
The cod is cooked through when it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. It should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Avoid overcooking, as this can result in dry and rubbery fish.
Can I Use A Different Type Of Fish For This Recipe?
Yes, you can use other mild-flavored white fish such as halibut, haddock, or tilapia. Adjust the cooking time as needed based on the thickness of the fillets.
Can I Substitute The Lemon Butter Sauce With A Different Sauce?
Yes, you can customize the sauce to your preference. Try a garlic herb sauce, a creamy dill sauce, or a spicy sriracha mayo for a different flavor profile.
How Can I Prevent The Cod From Sticking To The Pan?
Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the cod fillets, and use enough oil to coat the bottom of the pan. Also, avoid moving the fish around too much once it’s in the pan, as this can cause it to stick.
Lemon Butter Pan Seared Cod
Description
Ingredients
- 4 6-oz cod fillets about 1 inch thick
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For The Lemon Butter Sauce
- 1 lemon medium
- 3 tbsp butter melted
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh garlic minced
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
Instructions
- Pat dry the cod fillets with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Season both sides of the cod fillets with the seasoning, pressing gently to adhere.
- Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet.
- Carefully place the seasoned cod fillets into the hot skillet.
- Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature must reach 145°F (63°C) for the fish to be fully cooked.
- Once cooked, transfer the cod fillets to a plate and cover to keep warm.
- Make the Lemon Butter Sauce. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic.
- Cook over medium heat for about 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden.
- Add the melted butter to the skillet, followed by the lemon zest and juice. Season with salt and pepper, then stir well to combine.
- Allow the sauce to simmer for about 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
- Once the sauce is ready, return the cooked cod fillets to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them to coat them evenly.
- Heat another minute, allowing the cod fillets to soak up some of the sauce flavors.
- Remove from heat and transfer the cod fillets to serving plates.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and enjoy.
Video
Notes
- Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels before cooking to help achieve a perfect sear.
- Make sure your pan is hot before adding the fish to ensure a crispy, golden crust.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh off the stove to maintain its flaky and tender texture.
How do we calculate the nutrition info?
These nutrition facts listed are determined using nutrition information from the USDA Food Database. Our nutrition facts are accurate, but if you are using different products, please make your calculations. Net carb count is calculated by subtracting both fiber and sugar alcohols because they don’t raise blood sugar.
