Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish delivers restaurant-quality flavor in under 30 minutes, using just a handful of ingredients. The crispy skin provides a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the delicate, buttery cod. The lemon-garlic sauce enhances the natural sweetness of the fish, making it a crowd-pleaser for seafood lovers and picky eaters alike.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 cod fillets, skin-on
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Directions

1. Pat cod fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and pepper.

2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

3. Place cod fillets skin-side down in the skillet, pressing gently with a spatula for the first 30 seconds to prevent curling. Cook for 4–5 minutes until skin is crispy and golden.

4. Carefully flip the fillets and cook for another 2–3 minutes until fish is opaque and flakes easily. Remove from pan and set aside.

5. Reduce heat to medium, add butter to the skillet, and let it melt. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

6. Add lemon juice and zest, stirring to combine.

7. Return cod to the skillet briefly to coat with sauce, then transfer to plates.

8. Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes

Variations

• Herb Infusion: Add thyme or dill to the butter sauce for extra flavor.

• Spicy Twist: Stir in red pepper flakes to the sauce for gentle heat.

• Caper Upgrade: Add a tablespoon of capers for a briny note.

• Citrus Blend: Use a mix of lemon and orange juice for a softer, sweeter flavor.

• Grilled Option: Cook the cod on a grill for a smoky, charred taste.

Storage/Reheating

Store cooled cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or water to prevent drying. Avoid microwaving to preserve the texture of the fish and skin.

FAQs

How do I get the cod skin extra crispy?

Ensure the skin is completely dry, and cook over medium-high heat without moving it until golden brown.

Can I make this with skinless cod?

Yes, but you’ll miss the crispy skin texture—just cook for slightly less time.

What type of cod works best?

Fresh, thick fillets work best, but thawed frozen cod also works if patted dry.

Can I use other fish?

Yes, halibut, sea bass, or snapper are great substitutes.

Should I use salted or unsalted butter?

Unsalted butter is best so you can control the seasoning.

Can I bake the cod instead?

Yes, but the skin won’t get as crispy—pan-searing is best for that.

How do I know when cod is done?

It should flake easily with a fork and be opaque in the center.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a fresh green salad complement it well.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, but reheat gently and whisk before serving to maintain texture.

Is this recipe healthy?

Yes, it’s high in lean protein, low in carbs, and rich in healthy fats from olive oil and butter.

Conclusion

Delicious Lemon Garlic Butter Cod with Crispy Skin is a flavorful, quick-cooking recipe that feels gourmet without the fuss. With its flaky, moist fish, crunchy skin, and bright, buttery sauce, it’s a seafood dish you’ll want to make on repeat—perfect for everything from weeknight meals to elegant entertaining.

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