Baked Cod with Lemon Herb Butter

JoyOuceKitchen
Baked Cod with Lemon Herb ButterPicture from Downshiftology Publisher

This recipe transforms cod into a restaurant-worthy dish with a vibrant herb crust and a glistening lemon butter glaze. The key to success? A perfect internal temperature, achieved with the help of our trusty meat thermometer! Get ready for a symphony of textures – a crispy, flavorful crust gives way to impossibly moist and flaky cod, all bathed in a tangy, buttery sauce.

Prep Time Total Time Servings
10 mins 15 mins 1-2

INGREDIENTS

  • 2 cod fillets (about 6-ounces each), skin on or off (your preference)
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: Lemon wedges, for serving

    Equipment

    1. Baking dish
    2. Parchment paper
    3. Meat thermometer
    4. Mixing bowl
    5. Spoon or brush

                  INSTRUCTIONS

                  step 1
                  Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper.
                    step 2
                    Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
                      step 3
                      In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, olive oil, lemon juice, parsley, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
                        step 4
                        Place the cod fillets in the prepared baking dish. Spoon the lemon herb butter evenly over the top of the fish.
                          step 5
                          Bake for 10-12 mins, depending on the thickness of the fillets. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the cod fillet, without touching the bone.The internal temperature of the cod should reach 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption and perfect flakiness.
                            step 6
                            Once the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C), or the fish flakes easily with a fork, remove the cod from the oven.
                              step 7
                              Let the cod rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional fresh parsley or lemon wedges, if desired.

                                  TIPS

                                  1. For thicker cod fillets (over 1 inch thick), increase the baking time by 3-5 mins, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
                                  2. If you prefer crispier skin, broil the cod for the last minute or two of cooking. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.
                                  3. This recipe can be easily doubled or tripled to feed a crowd. Just adjust the baking dish size accordingly.
                                  4. For a different flavor profile, try substituting other herbs for the thyme, such as dill or rosemary.
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