Irresistible Garlic Butter Baked cod is one of those dishes that just makes my kitchen feel like home, filling the air with the most amazing aroma. I remember the first time I tried making it myself – I was a little nervous, but following a simple recipe for how to make garlic butter baked turned out to be surprisingly easy. The flaky cod, bathed in that rich, buttery garlic sauce, was pure bliss. It’s so good, you’ll wonder why you haven’t made this Easy Garlic Butter Baked dish before. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or even to impress guests. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Irresistible Garlic Butter Baked

This dish is an absolute winner for so many reasons! You’ll adore the incredibly rich and garlicky butter flavor that coats every piece of flaky cod. Plus, it’s a lifesaver on busy nights because it’s so quick to prepare.

• Amazing Taste: The buttery, garlicky goodness is simply divine.
• Super Fast Prep: Get this Easy Garlic Butter Baked dish on the table in minutes.
• Healthy Choice: Cod is packed with protein and omega-3s.
• Budget-Friendly: Simple ingredients make this affordable for any meal plan.
• Family Favorite: Even picky eaters love this flavorful cod.
• Versatile: It’s a fantastic Easy Garlic Butter Baked meal that pairs with anything.
• Aromatic Kitchen: The smell of garlic and butter baking is pure comfort.

Ingredients for Irresistible Garlic Butter Baked

Gathering your Garlic Butter Baked Ingredients is the first step to this delicious meal. We’re keeping it simple and flavorful!

• 1.5 lbs cod fillets – I like to use thick fillets for the best texture.
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted – This is the base for our amazing garlic butter sauce, providing that rich, savory flavor.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced – Freshly minced garlic is key for that potent, irresistible aroma and taste.
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped – Parsley adds a touch of brightness and a lovely pop of color.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice – A little acidity from the lemon juice cuts through the richness of the butter and brightens the fish.
• Salt and black pepper to taste – Don’t forget to season! This enhances all the other flavors.

How to Make Irresistible Garlic Butter Baked

Making this dish is incredibly straightforward, and the results are always fantastic. The aroma alone will have you excited to dig in! Here are the simple Garlic Butter Baked Recipe Instructions to guide you.

1. Step 1: First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your fish cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden finish.
2. Step 2: While the oven heats up, arrange your 1.5 lbs cod fillets in a baking dish. I like to use a dish that’s just large enough to hold the fish without too much crowding, which helps everything bake evenly.
3. Step 3: Now, let’s whip up that magical garlic butter sauce. In a small bowl, combine the 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted, with the 4 cloves garlic, minced. Add the 1 tablespoon lemon juice, a good pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir it all together until it’s beautifully combined. This mixture is where all that amazing flavor comes from!
4. Step 4: Carefully pour this glorious garlic butter mixture evenly over the cod fillets in the baking dish. Make sure each piece gets a good coating of that buttery goodness.
5. Step 5: Sprinkle the 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped, over the top of the fish. This not only adds a lovely fresh flavor but also a beautiful color contrast.
6. Step 6: Time to bake! Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cod is opaque and flakes easily when gently pressed with a fork. Keep an eye on it, as cooking times can vary slightly.
7. Step 7: Serve your Irresistible Garlic Butter Baked cod immediately. The smell is incredible, and the taste is even better! These Garlic Butter Baked Recipe Instructions make it so simple to achieve a restaurant-quality meal at home.

Pro Tips for the Best Irresistible Garlic Butter Baked

Want to elevate your garlic butter baked cod even further? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make a big difference. These simple tips ensure you get that perfect, mouthwatering result every time.

• Always use fresh garlic; pre-minced jarred garlic just doesn’t have the same punch.
• Don’t overcook the cod! It happens quickly, so watch it closely after the 12-minute mark.
• Using parchment paper or foil in your baking dish makes cleanup a breeze.
• For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture.

What’s the secret to perfect garlic butter baked?

The key to a perfect Irresistible Garlic Butter Baked dish lies in the balance of fresh ingredients and not overcooking. My best Garlic Butter Baked Cooking Tips include ensuring your garlic is finely minced and letting the butter mixture really coat the fish before baking.

Can I make Irresistible Garlic Butter Baked ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the garlic butter sauce and have the cod ready in the baking dish up to a few hours before cooking. Just cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. You might need to add a minute or two to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Irresistible Garlic Butter Baked?

Avoid overcooking the cod; it should be just opaque and flaky. Also, ensure your garlic is minced finely so it distributes evenly and doesn’t burn. Lastly, don’t skip the lemon juice; it really brightens the rich garlic butter flavor, preventing it from tasting too heavy.

Best Ways to Serve Irresistible Garlic Butter Baked

This delicious garlic butter baked cod is so versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. It’s fantastic served over a bed of fluffy white rice or quinoa, which soaks up all that amazing garlicky butter sauce. For a lighter meal, I love serving it alongside a fresh, crisp salad with a simple vinaigrette.

• Steamed asparagus or green beans: A classic pairing that adds a lovely fresh crunch.
• Roasted potatoes or sweet potatoes: These hearty sides complement the richness of the fish perfectly.
• Crusty bread: Essential for mopping up every last drop of that incredible garlic butter!

When thinking about Garlic butter baked side dish ideas, anything that can soak up that sauce or provide a fresh contrast works wonderfully. Enjoy!

For a delightful pairing, consider serving this with some spaghetti with garlic and oil or a simple homemade tomato sauce. If you’re looking for a fresh salad option, a caprese salad would be a perfect complement.

Nutrition Facts for Irresistible Garlic Butter Baked

This recipe for Irresistible Garlic Butter Baked cod is a fantastic option for a healthy and delicious meal. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional highlights per serving, giving you a clear idea of what you’re enjoying.

• Calories: 250
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more information on healthy eating, you can refer to resources like the NHS Eatwell Guide.

How to Store and Reheat Irresistible Garlic Butter Baked

Once your delicious Irresistible Garlic Butter Baked cod has cooled slightly, proper storage is key to maintaining its fantastic flavor and texture. I usually let it sit for about 15-20 minutes before packing it away. For the best results, store any leftovers in airtight containers. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you have a lot of extra, freezing is a great option; wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and they should keep well in the freezer for about 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, the best way to reheat is gently. I find a quick stint in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-10 minutes, or even a gentle warm-up in a covered skillet with a splash of water or broth, works wonders to bring back that lovely moistness. This ensures your leftovers are just as delightful as the first serving, making it a great meal prep option.

Frequently Asked Questions About Irresistible Garlic Butter Baked

What is garlic butter baked?

Garlic butter baked refers to a cooking method where ingredients, most commonly fish or chicken, are coated in a rich mixture of melted butter, minced garlic, and seasonings, then baked in the oven until tender and flavorful. It’s a simple technique that creates an incredibly moist and delicious dish, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. The beauty of this preparation is its simplicity and the depth of flavor it imparts with just a few key ingredients.

Can I use different types of fish for this recipe?

Absolutely! While cod is fantastic, this Irresistible Garlic Butter Baked preparation works wonderfully with many other firm white fish. I’ve had great success using haddock, tilapia, or even halibut. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as thicker fillets might need a minute or two longer, and thinner ones might cook a bit faster. The buttery garlic sauce is so versatile!

What can I serve with this dish?

This Irresistible Garlic Butter Baked dish is incredibly versatile. For a complete meal, I love pairing it with simple steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli, or a fresh green salad for a lighter touch. It’s also wonderful served over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up all that delicious garlicky butter sauce. Crusty bread is also a must for dipping!

How do I ensure the garlic doesn’t burn during baking?

To prevent burnt garlic, make sure to mince it finely. When combining it with the melted butter, ensure it’s well distributed. The butter acts as a protective layer. Also, keep an eye on the dish during the final few minutes of baking. If the garlic looks like it’s browning too quickly, you can loosely tent the dish with foil to prevent further browning while the fish finishes cooking.

Variations of Irresistible Garlic Butter Baked You Can Try

While the classic garlic butter baked cod is amazing, I love experimenting to find new ways to enjoy this flavor profile. Trying different variations can really spice up your meal rotation! Here are a few ideas I’ve discovered for tweaking this dish.

• Spicy Kick: For a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the garlic butter mixture before baking. This adds a wonderful warmth that complements the rich garlic butter.
• Lemon Herb Twist: Enhance the brightness by adding other fresh herbs like dill or chives along with the parsley. A little extra lemon zest mixed into the butter sauce can also provide an incredible burst of citrus flavor.
• Parmesan Crusted: For an extra layer of flavor and a lovely crispy topping, mix some grated Parmesan cheese into the breadcrumbs (if using a variation with them) or sprinkle it over the fish before baking. This offers a different texture and a nutty, salty dimension.
• Sheet Pan Meal: Make it a complete meal by adding vegetables like broccoli florets or asparagus spears to the baking sheet alongside the cod. Toss the veggies with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper before baking. This is a fantastic way to get the Best Garlic Butter Baked Flavor with minimal cleanup.

For another simple yet flavorful dish, consider trying easy avocado toast or a hearty barley dish.

Irresistible Garlic Butter Baked: 4 Simple Steps

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• Author: Jessica
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Low Lactose

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Description

Experience the magic of Garlic Butter Baked Cod, a dish that fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma and offers a buttery, garlicky flavor. This easy-to-prepare recipe is perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy weeknight meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1.5 lbs cod fillets
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and black pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the cod fillets in a baking dish.
3. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over the cod fillets.
5. Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the top.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
7. Serve immediately.

Notes

• For a richer flavor, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture.
• Ensure the garlic is finely minced for the best flavor distribution.
• Cod can be substituted with other firm white fish like haddock or tilapia.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 fillet
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 70mg