Ingredients

For the Cod:

• 4 cod fillets (6 ounces each, about 1-inch thick)

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil or dill

For the Lemon Garlic Butter:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

• 2-4 cloves fresh garlic, minced

• 2-4 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

• Zest from 1 lemon

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

For Serving:

• 1 lemon, sliced into rounds

• Fresh lemon wedges

Instructions

Prepare the Dish:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Pat cod fillets completely dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and dried herbs.

Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:

3. In a medium bowl, whisk together melted butter, olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes if using. Let the butter cool slightly before proceeding.

4. Add cod fillets to the bowl and gently toss to coat with the lemon butter mixture. Alternatively, place fillets in the baking dish and pour sauce over top.

Bake the Cod:

5. Transfer seasoned cod to the prepared baking dish and pour any remaining sauce over the fillets. Arrange lemon slices around and on top of the fish.

6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until fish is opaque, flakes easily with a fork, and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. Thinner fillets will cook faster, while thicker pieces may need the full 20 minutes.

7. Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley. Spoon the pan juices over the fish for extra flavor.