Succulent Baked Fish | Citrusy, Savory & Effortless Comfort

Chef’s Note: “Looking for a tender, fool-proof seafood dinner that delivers big restaurant flavors with minimal effort? Rich cod fillets are baked to flaky perfection in a bright garlic-lemon sauce and topped with melted butter and fresh lemon slices.”

⚡ Recipe Quick-View

MetricDetail
Prep Time10 Minutes
Cook Time20 Minutes
Total Time30 Minutes
Yield4 Servings
DietaryLow-Carb • Gluten-Free • Keto • Mediterranean

📊 Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 295 kcal
  • Protein: 31g
  • Net Carbs: 2g
  • Healthy Fats: 18g

🌟 Why You’ll Fall In Love With This Recipe

  • Incredibly Tender & Flaky: Baking in a lemon-butter bath locks in moisture and keeps the fish meltingly soft.
  • Simple Pantry Ingredients: Fresh garlic, real butter, and bright lemon create a luxurious, restaurant-quality pan sauce.
  • Versatile Sides: Pairs effortlessly with roasted potatoes, steamed greens, or fluffy rice to soak up the sauce.

🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need

The Fish Base:

  • 1½ lbs cod loin fillet (patted dry)

The Lemon Garlic Sauce:

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 tbsp lemon juice (from 1–2 lemons)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt & black pepper (to taste)

Finishing & Toppings:

  • ¼ cup butter, diced
  • 1 small lemon, sliced
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

🍳 Step-by-Step Culinary Method

  1. Prep the Oven & DishPreheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a rectangular baking dish. Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and arrange them in the dish without overcrowding.
  2. Whisk the Citrus Garlic SauceIn a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Season lightly with salt and black pepper.
  3. Assemble the TrayPour the lemon garlic sauce evenly over the cod fillets. Scatter the diced butter across the fish and lay the fresh lemon slices over top.
  4. Bake to Flaky PerfectionBake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, or until the fish becomes opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
  5. Garnish & ServeRemove from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot alongside steamed vegetables, rice, or roasted potatoes.