Creamy Lemon Garlic Baked Cod Recipe
There’s something magical about simple ingredients coming together to create a restaurant-worthy meal at home, and this Creamy Lemon Garlic Baked Cod Recipe is living proof! Tender cod fillets are blanketed in a velvety sauce that bursts with the brightness of fresh lemon, the subtle kick of garlic, and just enough creaminess to make every bite irresistibly luscious. Whether you’re a lifelong seafood lover or just dipping your toes into cooking fish, this dish is both approachable and show-stopping—perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Creamy Lemon Garlic Baked Cod Recipe lies in its uncomplicated ingredient list—each item plays a vital part in creating well-balanced flavor, comforting texture, and eye-catching color. From the flaky cod to the vibrant lemon and punch of garlic, every ingredient brings its own special touch to the table.
- Cod fillets: Choose fresh, firm white fillets around 6 oz each—their delicate flavor lets the sauce shine.
- Butter: Melts into a rich base, infusing the sauce with subtle, toasty depth.
- Garlic: Use fresh cloves for a fragrant, savory punch that plays perfectly with creamy and citrusy notes.
- Heavy cream: Lends body and silkiness—swap for half-and-half if you’d like it a bit lighter.
- Lemon zest: Provides vibrant color and an aromatic hit of citrus; don’t skip this for maximum zing!
- Lemon juice: Adds brightness and balances the richness of the cream.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): A pinch offers gentle heat, but feel free to leave this out for a milder dish.
- Salt and pepper: Simple, essential seasonings to highlight every flavor.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled over the top, it melts into a golden, savory crust.
- Chopped fresh parsley: For a pop of freshness and pretty green color at serving time.
How to Make Creamy Lemon Garlic Baked Cod Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven ensures the fish cooks quickly and stays juicy inside. Lightly grease a baking dish large enough to fit your cod fillets in a single layer—this prevents sticking and helps the sauce envelope each piece.
Step 2: Make the Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce
In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until it’s just bubbling but not browned. Add the minced garlic and cook for a minute—your kitchen will instantly smell amazing. Stir in the heavy cream, lemon zest, freshly squeezed lemon juice, red pepper flakes (if using), plus salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes, whisking occasionally; it will slightly thicken and develop a dreamy flavor.
Step 3: Assemble the Dish
Arrange the cod fillets in your prepared baking dish, spacing them evenly. Pour the warm lemon garlic cream sauce over the top, making sure every fillet is generously coated. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly across the surface to create a lovely, savory crust as it bakes.
Step 4: Bake the Cod
Slide the dish into the preheated oven and bake, uncovered, for 15 to 18 minutes. You’ll know the cod is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and the sauce is bubbly with a fragrant, golden top. This timing keeps the fish delicate and moist—avoid overbaking for best results.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Remove the baking dish from the oven and let it rest for two minutes. This helps the sauce settle and flavors meld. Garnish generously with chopped fresh parsley just before plating, then serve your Creamy Lemon Garlic Baked Cod Recipe hot alongside your favorite sides.
How to Serve Creamy Lemon Garlic Baked Cod Recipe
Garnishes
Allow your finishing touches to shine—freshly chopped parsley is classic, but you could also add a sprinkle of extra lemon zest for even more brightness. A few thin lemon slices or a dusting of cracked black pepper make the plate extra inviting.
Side Dishes
This dish practically begs for something that will soak up the luscious sauce: fluffy rice, buttery mashed potatoes, or simple roasted vegetables make perfect companions. If you love a little crunch, try serving it atop a bed of garlicky sautéed spinach or with a crisp green salad for contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a modern twist, spoon the baked cod and its creamy lemon garlic sauce over al dente pasta for a seafood pasta bowl, or stuff leftovers into toasted rolls as a decadent sandwich filling. For entertaining, portion the fillets into smaller pieces for tapas-style starters topped with microgreens.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover Creamy Lemon Garlic Baked Cod Recipe, store cooled fillets and sauce together in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep well for up to two days without losing flavor or texture.
Freezing
While fresh is best, you can freeze leftovers. Place cooled cod and sauce in a freezer-safe container; keep in mind the sauce may separate slightly when thawed. For optimal texture, enjoy within one month—defrost in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Gently reheat the cod and sauce together in a covered skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk if the sauce needs smoothing. Avoid microwaving for too long, as this can make the cod rubbery—gentle heat preserves its delicate texture.
FAQs
Can I use another type Main Course
Absolutely! Haddock and tilapia both work beautifully in place of cod—just watch your cooking time, as thinner fillets will cook a bit faster.
Is there a lighter substitute for heavy cream?
Yes, you can use half-and-half or even evaporated milk for a lighter, but still creamy, sauce. The texture will be slightly less rich, but the flavor stays delicious.
What if I don’t have fresh garlic?
If you’re out of fresh garlic, you can use 1/2 teaspoon of good-quality garlic powder. It won’t be quite as aromatic but will still give the sauce depth.
How do I know when cod is perfectly cooked?
The cod should flake easily with a fork and turn opaque all the way through. Avoid overcooking, as it can become dry quickly—start checking for doneness at the 15-minute mark.
Can I make this Creamy Lemon Garlic Baked Cod Recipe ahead of time?
This recipe is best baked just before serving, but you can prep the sauce ahead and keep it refrigerated for a day. Assemble and bake when you’re ready for dinner to enjoy the freshest flavor and texture.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a cozy, flavorful meal that feels like a little luxury without any fuss, I can’t recommend this Creamy Lemon Garlic Baked Cod Recipe enough. It’s a celebration of simple ingredients and big comfort—give it a whirl in your kitchen and let the compliments roll in!
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Creamy Lemon Garlic Baked Cod Recipe
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the creamy and tangy flavors of this delicious Creamy Lemon Garlic Baked Cod. Tender cod fillets are smothered in a luscious lemon garlic cream sauce and baked to perfection, creating a mouthwatering seafood dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Cod:
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish:
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- Prepare the sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan, sauté garlic, then add cream, lemon zest, lemon juice, red pepper, salt, and pepper. Simmer.
- Assemble: Place cod fillets in the dish, pour sauce over the top, sprinkle with Parmesan.
- Bake: Bake uncovered for 15–18 minutes until fish flakes easily.
- Finish and serve: Let rest, garnish with parsley, and serve with sides.
Notes
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half or evaporated milk instead of cream
- Haddock or tilapia can be substituted for cod
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet with sauce
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 340mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
