Lemon Butter Pan-Seared Cod: Quick, Tender, and Bursting with Flavor
There’s nothing quite like a perfectly cooked piece of cod—tender, flaky, and melt-in-your-mouth—paired with a bright, buttery sauce that elevates every bite. This Lemon Butter Pan-Seared Cod recipe is a weeknight hero: quick, simple, and full of fresh, vibrant flavors that make it taste like a restaurant-quality dish.
With a few pantry staples and minimal prep, you can have a plate of golden, buttery cod ready in under 20 minutes. The combination of zesty lemon, rich butter, and perfectly seared fish makes it a dish everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Quick and easy – Ready in under 20 minutes.
✔ Juicy, flaky fish – Pan-searing locks in moisture and flavor.
✔ Bright, buttery sauce – Lemon and butter create the perfect balance.
✔ Elegant yet simple – Looks impressive but is effortless to make.
✔ Versatile – Pair with rice, roasted vegetables, pasta, or salad.
Ingredients
4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each), skinless or skin-on
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon (zested and juiced)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Optional: a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat
How to Make Lemon Butter Pan-Seared Cod
1. Prepare the Fish
Pat cod fillets dry with a paper towel and season both sides with salt and pepper.
Drying the fillets helps achieve a golden crust.
2. Heat the Pan
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Once hot, carefully place cod fillets in the pan.
3. Pan-Sear the Cod
Cook the fillets for 3–4 minutes on the first side without moving them.
Flip carefully and cook for another 2–3 minutes, until fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
4. Make the Lemon Butter Sauce
Lower the heat and add butter to the same pan.
Stir in minced garlic, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Cook for 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
5. Serve
Drizzle the lemon butter sauce over the cod and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Serving Ideas
With roasted asparagus or green beans
Over garlic mashed potatoes or rice pilaf
Alongside a fresh garden salad
With pasta tossed in olive oil and herbs
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