There’s something sacred about Fish Friday in our home. Whether it’s rooted in tradition, flavor, or just a good excuse to break out the lemon and butter, we take it seriously, but never too seriously to have fun with it.
This week, I’m sharing a recipe that’s earned a permanent spot in our Friday night rotation: Crispy Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Cod. It’s everything you want from a weeknight dish, simple, fast, and packed with flavor that punches way above its prep time. We’re talking flaky, melt-in-your-mouth cod fillets, a golden panko-Parmesan crust, and a buttery lemon-garlic drizzle that deserves its own fan club.
The best part is that it bakes in under 20 minutes, leaving you just enough time to whip up a side, pour yourself something refreshing, and pat yourself on the back for being a kitchen genius.
Whether you’re looking to impress guests, shake up your dinner routine, or just treat yourself to something special, this recipe hits all the right notes, bright, buttery, crispy, and downright crave-worthy.
Here is the full recipe, tips for pairing, and maybe even a leftover idea that might just outshine the original (yes, I said it).
Let’s dive in!
🍋 Crispy Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Cod
Serves: 4
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15-20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins (just enough time to make a side of roasted veggies or pour a crisp white wine)
Ingredients:
- 4 cod fillets (about 5–6 oz each)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (fresh is best)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular)
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tsp dried)
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for some sass or cayenne for more sass!
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment or foil for easy cleanup, I hate having to scrub.
- Pat cod dry and season both sides with salt and pepper. Place them on the baking sheet gently, smile while you do it.
- In a bowl, mix:
- Melted butter
- Garlic
- Lemon zest
- Lemon juice
- Paprika
- Red pepper flakes (if using) or cayenne (if you’re feeling it)
Pour this citrusy love over the cod.
- In another bowl, combine:
- Panko
- Parmesan
- Parsley
Sprinkle this on top of the fillets and press gently to make it stick like a golden crust of glory.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until fish flakes easily and the top is crispy and golden. If you want extra crunch, broil for 1–2 mins at the end (but watch it like a hawk with a culinary degree).
Suggested Sides:
- Roasted asparagus with a splash of balsamic
- Lemon-herb quinoa
- Garlic mashed potatoes
Bonus: Leftovers make an excellent fish sandwich with a slather of tartar sauce and a brioche bun. Boom, lunch for Saturday!
