This Easy Garlic Butter Cod is a quick and tasty dish that brings seafood to your table effortlessly. With juicy cod fillets, butter, and a blend of garlic, it’s a crowd-pleaser!
You’ll love how fast this recipe comes together. Just sauté the fish in buttery goodness, and boom—dinner is ready! I can’t resist pairing it with some rice or veggies for a complete meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cod Fillets: Fresh cod is ideal for its mild flavor and flaky texture. If you can’t find cod, halibut or tilapia work well as alternatives. Just keep the cooking time similar.
Butter: I recommend unsalted butter for this dish, as it lets you control the saltiness. If you want to lighten the meal, use olive oil instead; just note it won’t have the same creamy richness.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must in this recipe for that punch of flavor! If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can substitute, but use about 1/4 teaspoon instead of the cloves.
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus adds a nice crunch and color. You can swap it out for green beans or broccoli if you prefer, just adjust cooking time slightly based on the vegetable.
Broth: Chicken broth adds depth of flavor, but vegetable broth works too for a lighter option. If you’re in a pinch, water with a bit of soy sauce can also do the trick.
How Do I Cook Cod So It Doesn’t Dry Out?
Cooking fish can be tricky, but here are some tips to keep your cod juicy and tender:
- Pat the fish dry before seasoning. This step helps it get a nice sear.
- Cook on medium-high heat for a quick sear. Avoid moving the fish too much, so a crust can form.
- Keep the cooking time short—about 3-4 minutes on each side is usually enough.
- Let the cod rest for a minute after cooking; this allows juices to redistribute.
By following these tips, you’ll enjoy perfectly moist cod every time! Happy cooking!
Easy Garlic Butter Cod Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a mild kick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed
- 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious garlic butter cod recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and only about 15 minutes of cooking time. So, total, you’re looking at 30 minutes from start to finish! Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cod:
Start by patting the cod fillets dry with paper towels. This helps them get that nice crispy outer layer. Season both sides of the fillets generously with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper if you like a little kick. Set them aside while you heat the pan.
2. Sear the Fish:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat until it’s melted and hot—this is key for a good sear. Place the cod fillets in the skillet, skin-side down if applicable. Let them cook for about 3-4 minutes until they’re golden brown and crusty. After that, flip them over carefully and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic and Asparagus:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter along with the minced garlic. Sauté this mixture for about 30 seconds until the garlic gets fragrant—be careful not to burn it! Then, toss in the trimmed asparagus and cook for about 3-4 minutes until it’s tender but still has a nice crispness.
4. Create the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth along with the fresh lemon juice. Use a spatula to scrape any browned bits off the bottom of the pan; this adds flavor to your sauce! Let it simmer gently for about 2 minutes to combine the flavors.
5. Finish the Dish:
Return the cod fillets to the skillet, spooning the garlic butter sauce over them. Cook for another minute just to heat everything through. Finally, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top before serving for a burst of color and flavor!
Enjoy your garlic butter cod with asparagus, along with a side of rice, mashed potatoes, or a slice of crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce. Happy cooking!
FAQ for Easy Garlic Butter Cod Recipe
Can I Use Frozen Cod for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cod! Just make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge overnight or under cold running water before cooking. Pat it dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear.
What Can I Substitute for Asparagus?
If you don’t have asparagus on hand, green beans or broccoli are excellent substitutes. Just adjust the cooking time, making sure the vegetables are tender but still crisp when added to the dish.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stove with a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture, or use the microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative like olive oil or vegan butter. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious!
