Garlic Butter Cod

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Pan-seared to perfection and bathed in a garlicky, herby butter sauce, this Garlic Butter Cod is elegance made easy. With a golden crust outside and tender, flaky inside, this dish brings gourmet flavor to your dinner table in just under 20 minutes. It’s the kind of no-fuss meal that feels indulgent yet refreshingly light.

Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just craving something different for weeknight dinner, this cod recipe checks all the boxes: quick, easy, rich in flavor, and incredibly satisfying. The garlicky herb butter clings to every bite of the mild, buttery fish, turning a simple dish into something unforgettable.

What Kind of Cod Should I Use?

Fresh or frozen, both work great as long as the fillets are thick and firm. Fresh cod delivers the best texture, but frozen cod that’s been properly thawed retains moisture beautifully. Avoid overly thin pieces—you want that golden crust without overcooking the delicate center.

Ingredients for the Garlic Butter Cod

• Cod Fillets: The star of the show. Mild, tender, and the perfect canvas for bold butter flavors.
• Garlic: Lots of it! Fresh minced garlic gives this dish its aromatic backbone.
• Unsalted Butter: The luscious base of the sauce. Unsalted gives you control over seasoning.
• Fresh Parsley: Brightens the butter sauce with fresh, grassy notes.
• Chili Flakes: For a subtle kick that balances the richness.
• Olive Oil: Helps create that golden crust on the cod while keeping it moist.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance every layer.

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How To Make the Garlic Butter Cod

Step 1: Prep and Season the Cod

Pat cod fillets dry with paper towels. This helps the fish brown nicely. Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.

Step 2: Sear to Perfection

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the cod and cook undisturbed for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown. Flip gently and cook another 3 minutes until opaque and flaky. Remove from the pan.

Step 3: Build the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic, stirring frequently to avoid burning. Let it sizzle gently for a minute until aromatic.

Step 4: Add Herbs and Heat

Stir in parsley and chili flakes. Let the mixture cook for 30 seconds, infusing the butter with vibrant flavor.

Step 5: Bring It Together

Return the cooked cod to the skillet, spooning the hot garlic butter sauce over each piece. Let it warm for 30 seconds and serve immediately.

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How to Serve and Store Garlic Butter Cod

Serve the cod hot and spoon the buttery sauce over the top for a show-stopping finish. It pairs best fresh out of the skillet, but leftovers store well. Place any cooled leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat with a splash of extra butter to refresh the sauce.

What to Serve With Garlic Butter Cod?

Lemon Rice Pilaf

Its citrus notes enhance the buttery fish and keep things light.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creamy, comforting, and perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce.

Sauteed Asparagus

Adds crunch and brightness to balance the richness.

Roasted Cherry Tomatoes

Juicy bursts of sweetness play well with the garlicky butter.

Parmesan Crusted Zucchini

Crunchy and savory, it makes a smart low-carb companion.

Mixed Green Salad with Vinaigrette

A refreshing side to round out a satisfying meal.

Buttery Dinner Rolls

Because that sauce deserves to be sopped up.

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Want More Seafood Dinner Ideas?

If this Garlic Butter Cod reeled you in, try these other ocean-inspired bites:

• Grilled Cod with Roasted Tomatoes & Creamy Dill Sauce
• Cajun Shrimp with Garlic Butter Sauce
• Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
• One-Pan Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo
• Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest seafood board so you can revisit it whenever the craving hits.

And tell me how yours turned out in the comments! Did you go bold with extra chili flakes? Add lemon zest to the butter? I’d love to know how you made it yours.

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