Garlic Butter Cod

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Garlic Butter Cod is the kind of weeknight dinner that feels elegant yet takes minimal effort. Flaky, tender cod is pan-seared to golden perfection and bathed in a warm, buttery garlic sauce that’s infused with fresh herbs and a hint of heat. It’s the sort of dish you can serve to guests with pride or whip up for yourself when comfort and simplicity are top priority.

The real magic happens in the garlic butter. As the cod cooks, the butter bubbles with garlic, crushed red pepper, lemon zest, and chopped parsley, creating an aromatic pool of flavor. This recipe transforms a humble white fish into a restaurant-worthy experience—and the best part? It’s ready in under 20 minutes.

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What Type of Cod Should I Use?

Fresh or frozen cod fillets both work beautifully in this recipe. If using frozen, be sure to fully thaw and pat dry to avoid excess moisture in the skillet. Look for thicker, center-cut pieces if possible—they cook more evenly and flake perfectly. Atlantic cod or Pacific cod are both mild and ideal for soaking up all that garlicky butter goodness.

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Ingredients for the Garlic Butter Cod

Cod Fillets – The star of the dish. Mild, flaky, and perfect for soaking up all the butter and herbs.

Unsalted Butter – Allows you to control the salt levels and creates the rich base of the garlic sauce.

Fresh Garlic – Minced or thinly sliced, it infuses the butter with bold flavor.

Olive Oil – Helps with even searing and prevents the butter from burning.

Red Pepper Flakes – Just a pinch adds subtle heat that balances the richness.

Lemon Zest and Juice – Brightens the dish and cuts through the butter.

Chopped Parsley – Adds color and fresh herbal notes.

Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning both the fish and the sauce.

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How To Make the Garlic Butter Cod

Step 1: Prep the Cod

Pat the cod fillets dry with a paper towel and season both sides with salt and pepper. This helps the fish develop a golden crust and prevents excess water from entering the pan.

Step 2: Sear the Fish

Heat a mix of olive oil and a little butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the cod and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden and flaky. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add more butter, followed by minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté until the garlic is fragrant but not browned, about 30 seconds.

Step 4: Add Brightness

Stir in lemon zest and juice. Let the sauce simmer for a minute to meld the flavors, then add the chopped parsley.

Step 5: Return the Cod to the Pan

Carefully return the cod fillets to the skillet, spooning the garlic butter over the top. Let them warm through for a minute or two.

Step 6: Serve

Plate the cod and drizzle with extra sauce. Garnish with more parsley and a wedge of lemon if desired.

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How to Serve and Store Garlic Butter Cod

This dish is best served immediately, paired with crusty bread, rice, or a light salad to soak up that luscious sauce. For storing, allow the cod to cool completely, then place in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or extra butter to keep it moist.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when cod is fully cooked?

Cod should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. If it’s still translucent in the middle, it needs more time.

Can I use another fish instead of cod?

Yes, haddock, halibut, or tilapia work well with this recipe and soak up the garlic butter just as nicely.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free. Just make sure any sides you serve with it are too.

Can I make it dairy-free?

You can substitute a good-quality vegan butter, though the flavor will change slightly.

What sides go best with Garlic Butter Cod?

Try it with roasted potatoes, steamed broccoli, couscous, or a lemony quinoa salad.

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Want More Dinner Ideas with a Twist?

If you loved this Garlic Butter Cod, you might enjoy these easy and flavorful mains too:

• Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli
• Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet
• One Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta
• Pan-Fried Salmon with Garlic Butter Sauce
• Creamy Cajun Steak Alfredo

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try it with lemon slices or extra garlic? Maybe even a little white wine?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

Looking for more recipe inspiration? Follow along on my Pinterest @hallarecipes where I share new dishes daily!

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