Skillet Lemon Butter Cod
A quick and easy lemon butter cod recipe that is perfect for a high-protein seafood dinner. Enjoy the fresh flavors of lemon and butter with perfectly pan-seared cod.
Equipment
- 1 large skillet non-stick if possible
- 1 fish spatula
- 1 measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Lemon Butter Sauce
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 lemon juiced
Instructions
Preparation
- Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Add the cod fillets to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium and add butter to the skillet. Once melted, add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Squeeze the juice of one lemon into the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic butter.
- Return the cod fillets to the skillet, spoon the sauce over the top, and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to meld the flavors.
Serving
- Serve the cod immediately, drizzling any remaining sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Storage
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat.
Notes
Pro Tips: Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the cod to achieve a nice sear. Use a fish spatula for easy flipping. Let the cod rest after cooking for juiciness.
Ingredient Substitutions: Substitute cod with halibut or tilapia. Add red pepper flakes for spice. Use herbs like dill or parsley for added flavor.
How to Serve: Pair with steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or roasted potatoes. A crisp white wine complements this dish well.
Storage & Freshness: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the lemon butter sauce ahead of time and store in the fridge. Reheat gently before adding to the cod.
Ingredient Substitutions: Substitute cod with halibut or tilapia. Add red pepper flakes for spice. Use herbs like dill or parsley for added flavor.
How to Serve: Pair with steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or roasted potatoes. A crisp white wine complements this dish well.
Storage & Freshness: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the lemon butter sauce ahead of time and store in the fridge. Reheat gently before adding to the cod.