There’s something incredibly comforting about the rich fragrance of garlic and butter wafting through the kitchen. I recently found myself craving a delicious home-cooked meal that would break the monotony of fast food. That’s when this Garlic Butter Cod recipe beckoned, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint!
In just a single pan, the delicate cod fillets transform into a golden, flaky delight, draped in a luscious garlic-infused sauce. It’s the kind of dish that feels fancy but comes together in no time, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without much fuss. So, gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into this flavorful journey that you can whip up in a matter of minutes. Your taste buds will thank you!
Why will you love Garlic Butter Cod?
Delicious simplicity: This Garlic Butter Cod requires minimal ingredients and just one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
Quick prep time: Have dinner on the table in under 30 minutes, perfect for those busy weeknights.
Rich flavor: The blend of buttery garlic sauce elevates the mild cod, creating a dish bursting with deliciousness.
Versatile options: Feel free to substitute cod with other fish like tilapia or halibut for a delightful twist.
Crowd-pleaser: This dish is sure to impress family and friends, making it ideal for casual dinners and gatherings.
For more quick dinner ideas, don’t forget to check out my easy weeknight recipes!
Garlic Butter Cod Ingredients
Get ready to create a delightful Garlic Butter Cod dish with these simple ingredients!
For the Cod
- Cod Fillets – Skinless, boneless pieces ensure a tender, flaky texture that cooks beautifully.
- Plain Flour – A light coating that helps achieve a golden crust; swap for rice flour for a gluten-free option.
- Salt – This essential ingredient enhances flavor; adjust to your preference for a taste that pops.
- Garlic Powder – Adds an extra layer of garlic flavor without overwhelming the dish.
- Black Pepper – Gives a hint of spice, rounding out the buttery sauce perfectly.
For Frying
- Olive Oil – Ideal base for frying; it promotes even cooking and adds a nice richness.
- Unsalted Butter – Key for creating that luxurious garlic sauce; using unsalted gives you better control over sodium.
For the Sauce
- Fresh Garlic – Finely diced garlic cloves bring an aromatic flavor; avoid using jarred for the best taste.
- Vegetable Stock – This broth enriches the sauce, keeping it moist and tasty; chicken stock makes for a more decadent option.
For Garnish
- Fresh Parsley – Brightens up the dish visually and flavor-wise; dill can be used for a different herb twist.
- Lemon – Essential for balancing richness, serve wedges on the side for that perfect zing.
With these ingredients, you’re all set to prepare a mouthwatering Garlic Butter Cod that will quickly become your new go-to on busy weeknights!
How to Make Garlic Butter Cod
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Prep Cod: Pat dry the cod fillets with paper towels, ensuring they’re moisture-free. Then, coat each piece in a mix of seasoned flour, which includes salt, garlic powder, and black pepper.
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Fry Cod: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil and a generous pat of unsalted butter in a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Fry the cod for 2-3 minutes on each side until it’s beautifully golden brown and opaque. Remove from the pan and set aside.
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Make Sauce: In the same pan, reduce the heat to medium and sauté the finely diced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Next, pour in the vegetable stock and the remaining butter, stirring until everything melts together and the sauce thickens slightly.
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Combine: Return the perfectly cooked cod to the pan, basting it with the luscious sauce. Cook for another minute or so, ensuring the fish is heated through and well-coated.
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Serve: Plate the cod with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for that zesty finish. Enjoy your meal, and watch your family devour this delightful dish!
Optional: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Garlic Butter Cod Variations
Get ready to make this delicious dish your own with these delightful twists!
- Gluten-Free: Swap plain flour with rice flour for a crispy coating without gluten.
- Dairy-Free: Use olive oil instead of butter and a plant-based butter substitute for a luscious sauce.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a gentle heat that elevates flavor.
- Wine Enrichment: Stir in a splash of white wine to the sauce while it simmers for added richness.
- Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh thyme or rosemary instead of parsley for a fragrant, earthy twist.
- Zesty Twist: Mix in lime juice in place of lemon to brighten the dish with a unique flavor.
- Crispy Topping: Top with panko breadcrumbs mixed with olive oil before cooking for a crunchy texture contrast.
- Sweet Touch: Add a tablespoon of honey to the sauce to balance garlic’s bite with a hint of sweetness.
What to Serve with Garlic Butter Cod?
Elevate your dining experience with delightful sides that will harmonize with the rich flavors of this creamy dish.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery texture of mashed potatoes complements the flaky cod perfectly, creating a comforting combination.
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Garlic Roasted Asparagus: These crisp-tender spears echo the garlic notes in your cod, adding a vibrant, fresh crunch that brightens the plate.
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Butter Lettuce Salad: A light salad with a zesty vinaigrette brings a refreshing contrast to the richness of the Garlic Butter Cod.
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Sautéed Spinach: The earthy flavor of spinach sautéed in olive oil balances the dish, providing a lovely green element that enhances the meal.
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Lemon Rice: Fluffy rice with a hint of lemon zest mirrors the citrusy brightness of the cod’s garnish, tying the flavors together seamlessly.
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White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay pairs beautifully with the dish, enhancing its buttery notes and enriching the dining experience.
Expert Tips for Garlic Butter Cod
- Perfect Timing: Keep an eye on the cooking time—cod cooks quickly and is best when slightly underdone, as it continues cooking off the heat.
- Fresh Garlic Essential: Always use fresh garlic instead of jarred. Fresh adds a vibrant flavor that enhances the overall appeal of the Garlic Butter Cod.
- Sauce Thickness: If your sauce is too thin, remember that excess flour from the cod will naturally thicken it; adjust your stock slowly to achieve the desired consistency.
- Lemon Zing: Serve fresh lemon wedges on the side rather than squeezing directly into the pan, as this can break the sauce and affect its creaminess.
- Flaky Perfection: Ensure your cod is patted dry before coating to achieve a crispy crust that pairs beautifully with the garlic butter sauce.
How to Store and Freeze Garlic Butter Cod
- Fridge: Store any leftovers of your Garlic Butter Cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to retain freshness and flavor.
- Freezer: If you have more leftovers, you can freeze the cooked cod. Wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months to prevent freezer burn.
- Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm gently in a non-stick skillet over low heat, adding a bit of fresh stock or butter to keep it moist.
- Avoid Re-freezing: Do not re-freeze the cod once it has been thawed, as this can compromise the texture and flavor.
Make Ahead Options
These Garlic Butter Cod fillets are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a gourmet dish without the last-minute rush! You can prep the seasoned flour coating and coat the cod fillets up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Additionally, you could sauté the garlic and prepare the sauce, refrigerating it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the sauce gently in a pan, fry the cod for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden, and combine with the sauce. This makes for a wonderfully quick dinner with all the rich flavors just as delicious as freshly made!
Garlic Butter Cod Recipe FAQs
What type of cod should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using skinless, boneless cod fillets. They provide that tender, flaky texture that cooks beautifully and absorbs the delicious garlic butter sauce perfectly.
How should I store leftover Garlic Butter Cod?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and they will stay fresh for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a non-stick skillet over low heat to maintain the delicate texture of the fish.
Can you freeze Garlic Butter Cod?
Yes, you can! To freeze, tightly wrap the cooked cod in aluminum foil or place it in freezer-safe bags. It will last for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently in a skillet, adding a splash of water or stock to keep it moist.
How can I make sure the sauce isn’t too thin?
Great question! If the sauce becomes too thin, consider slowly incorporating the excess flour from the coated cod as it will naturally thicken the sauce. You can also let it simmer a bit longer over low heat until it reaches your desired consistency. Just keep an eye on it to avoid burning!
Is this recipe suitable for those with garlic allergies?
Not at all! If anyone has a garlic allergy, it’s best to substitute the garlic with other herbs like thyme or chives to flavor the dish without compromising safety. Always check ingredient labels when using store-bought stocks to ensure they’re garlic-free.
Can I use frozen cod fillets?
Certainly! If using frozen cod, it’s best to thaw them in the fridge overnight before cooking for even results. This will ensure the fish cooks through evenly without becoming rubbery. If you’re in a hurry, you can also cook them from frozen, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Garlic Butter Cod: Your New Quick Dinner Hero
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pat dry the cod fillets with paper towels and coat each piece in a mix of seasoned flour (salt, garlic powder, black pepper).
- Heat olive oil and unsalted butter in a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Fry the cod for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and opaque. Remove from the pan.
- In the same pan, reduce heat to medium and sauté the finely diced garlic for about 30 seconds. Pour in vegetable stock and remaining butter, stirring until melted and slightly thickened.
- Return the cod to the pan, basting with the sauce. Cook for another minute to heat through.
- Plate the cod, squeeze fresh lemon juice on top, and optionally garnish with parsley.