Broiled Cod

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This broiled cod recipe is easy, fast, and delicious. With minimal ingredients and just a few steps, you can have a restaurant-quality meal on the table in under 30 minutes. The lemon-garlic butter adds brightness and depth of flavor to the tender fish. It’s naturally low in carbs and gluten-free, making it a great option for a variety of diets. Whether you’re new to cooking fish or a seasoned home chef, this recipe is foolproof and flavorful.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • 1 pound cod fillets (about 4 pieces)

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest

  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Directions

  1. Preheat the Broiler:
    Set your oven to broil and position the oven rack 4 to 6 inches from the heat source.

  2. Prepare the Cod:
    Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

  3. Make the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce:
    In an oven-safe skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in lemon juice and lemon zest.

  4. Cook the Cod:
    Place the cod fillets in the skillet with the lemon garlic butter. Cook for 1 minute, then flip the fillets carefully.

  5. Broil the Cod:
    Transfer the skillet to the oven and broil for 6 to 9 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should be 130–140°F (54–60°C).

  6. Garnish and Serve:
    Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side if desired.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 4

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes

  • Cook Time: 10 minutes

  • Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

  • Herb Butter: Add chopped fresh herbs like thyme, dill, or basil to the butter for added flavor.

  • Spicy Cod: Sprinkle with a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for a spicy version.

  • Parmesan Crust: Top with grated Parmesan cheese before broiling for a crispy, cheesy crust.

  • Citrus Twist: Use orange or lime juice instead of lemon for a different citrus profile.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

  • Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to maintain texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cod?

Yes, just make sure it is fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.

How do I know when cod is done?

Cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 130–140°F (54–60°C).

What can I serve with broiled cod?

Great sides include roasted vegetables, rice, quinoa, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Can I use a different type of fish?

Yes, haddock, halibut, or tilapia are great alternatives that work well with broiling.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative like olive oil or plant-based butter.

Should I marinate the cod?

It’s not necessary, but you can marinate it in lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil for 15–30 minutes for extra flavor.

Is broiled cod healthy?

Yes, cod is a lean source of protein and is low in calories and fat, making it a healthy meal choice.

Can I use foil for broiling?

Yes, you can broil the cod on a foil-lined baking sheet for easier cleanup, but using a skillet allows you to baste it with the sauce.

What herbs go well with cod?

Parsley, dill, chives, thyme, and basil all pair well with the mild flavor of cod.

How thick should the fillets be?

Cod fillets about 1 inch thick are ideal for even cooking under the broiler.

Conclusion

Broiled Cod is a quick, easy, and delicious way to enjoy a healthy seafood dinner. With its light lemon-garlic butter sauce and simple preparation, it’s perfect for both weeknight meals and entertaining guests. Customize it with your favorite herbs or spices and enjoy a wholesome, flavorful dish that’s ready in no time.

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Broiled Cod

Broiled Cod


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  • Author: Ava
  • Total Time: 25min
  • Yield: 4servings
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Broiled Cod recipe is quick, healthy, and packed with flavor. Lightly seasoned and broiled in a zesty lemon-garlic butter sauce, the cod develops a tender, flaky texture with a golden finish. With only a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, this easy broiled cod is perfect for busy weeknights or elegant dinners alike. Naturally low in carbs and gluten-free, it’s a wholesome and satisfying seafood dish the whole family will love.


Ingredients

1 pound cod fillets (about 4 pieces)

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 teaspoon lemon zest

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley


Instructions

  • Preheat Broiler: Set oven to broil and position rack 4–6 inches from heat source.

  • Prepare Cod: Pat fillets dry. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

  • Make Sauce: In an oven-safe skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Stir in lemon juice and zest.

  • Sear Cod: Place cod in skillet. Cook for 1 minute, then flip.

  • Broil: Transfer skillet to oven. Broil for 6–9 minutes, or until cod is opaque and flakes easily. Internal temp should reach 130–140°F (54–60°C).

  • Garnish & Serve: Remove from oven, sprinkle with parsley, and serve with lemon wedges.

Notes

  • For easy cleanup, line a baking sheet with foil if not using a skillet.

  • Add red pepper flakes for a spicy twist, or top with Parmesan for a cheesy crust.

  • Swap lemon with lime or orange for a fun citrus variation.

  • Ideal cod thickness: about 1 inch for even cooking.

  • Prep Time: 10min
  • Cook Time: 10min
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Broiled
  • Cuisine: American

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