Transform your dinner routine with this restaurant-quality Lemon Garlic Butter Cod with Crispy Skin that delivers perfectly golden, crispy skin and tender, flaky fish in just 20 minutes. This elegant yet simple recipe combines the bright flavors of lemon and garlic with rich butter to create a memorable meal that’s sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Lemon Garlic Butter Cod with Crispy Skin recipe is a game-changer for seafood lovers. The technique creates an irresistibly crispy skin that contrasts beautifully with the tender, flaky cod beneath. The lemon garlic butter sauce adds layers of flavor without overwhelming the delicate fish, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Best of all, it’s ready in under 30 minutes and requires minimal cleanup – just one pan from start to finish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 cod fillets (6 oz each), skin-on
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 3 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
How to Make Lemon Garlic Butter Cod with Crispy Skin
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cod Pat the cod fillets completely dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper, paying special attention to the skin side. Let the fillets sit at room temperature for 10 minutes to remove excess moisture.
Step 2: Heat the Pan Heat olive oil in a large stainless steel or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. The pan should be hot enough that a drop of water sizzles immediately upon contact.
Step 3: Sear the Cod Place the cod fillets skin-side down in the hot pan. Press gently with a spatula for the first 30 seconds to prevent curling. Cook without moving for 4-5 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy.
Step 4: Flip and Finish Carefully flip the fillets using a thin spatula. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
Step 5: Make the Lemon Garlic Butter Remove the cod from the pan and set aside. Reduce heat to medium-low and add butter to the same pan. Once melted, add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add lemon juice and zest, stirring to combine.
Step 6: Serve Return the cod to the pan briefly to warm through, then plate immediately. Drizzle with the lemon garlic butter sauce and garnish with fresh parsley.
Helpful Tips
For Perfect Crispy Skin: Ensure your cod fillets are completely dry before cooking. Any moisture will cause steaming instead of crisping. Use paper towels to pat them dry and let them sit uncovered for 10 minutes before cooking.
Don’t Move the Fish: Resist the urge to move or flip the cod too early. The skin needs time to develop that golden crust. You’ll know it’s ready when the fish releases easily from the pan.
Use the Right Pan: A stainless steel or cast-iron pan works best for achieving crispy skin. Non-stick pans won’t give you the same golden results.
Fresh Lemon is Key: Always use fresh lemon juice and zest rather than bottled. The bright, vibrant flavor makes a noticeable difference in this simple recipe.
Details
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: Mediterranean-inspired
Method: Pan-seared
Notes
- Choose cod fillets that are similar in thickness for even cooking
- If your cod fillets don’t have skin, you can still make this recipe – just reduce the cooking time slightly
- The internal temperature should reach 145°F for food safety
- This recipe works well with other white fish like halibut, sea bass, or haddock
- For extra flavor, add a sprig of fresh thyme to the butter while it melts
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen cod fillets? A: Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them very dry. Frozen fillets often retain more moisture, which can prevent the skin from getting crispy.
Q: What if my cod doesn’t have skin? A: You can still make this recipe with skinless fillets. Simply cook for 3-4 minutes on the first side and 2-3 minutes on the second side.
Q: How do I know when the cod is done? A: The fish should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F. The flesh should be opaque and no longer translucent.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: This dish is best served immediately for the crispiest skin. However, you can prep the ingredients in advance and cook when ready to serve.
Q: What sides pair well with this cod? A: Try roasted vegetables, rice pilaf, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. The lemon garlic butter complements many side dishes.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator: Store leftover cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Note that the skin will lose its crispiness upon storage.
Reheating: For best results, reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it will make the fish rubbery and the skin soggy.
Freezing: While you can freeze cooked cod for up to 1 month, the texture and crispiness will be compromised. It’s best enjoyed fresh.
Conclusion
This Lemon Garlic Butter Cod with Crispy Skin recipe proves that impressive doesn’t have to mean complicated. With just a few simple ingredients and the right technique, you can create a restaurant-quality dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of crispy skin, tender fish, and bright lemon garlic butter creates a harmony of flavors and textures that will have your family asking for seconds. Master this technique, and you’ll have a go-to recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your dinner rotation.
