The Creamy Lemon Garlic Baked Cod Recipe is a truly delightful way to enjoy tender, flaky fish wrapped in a luscious, zesty sauce that sings with garlic and fresh lemon. This dish balances rich, comforting creaminess with bright, citrus notes, making it a perfect dinner for both busy weeknights and special gatherings. The combination of wild-caught cod, aromatic shallots, and a hint of spice from cayenne pepper elevates this recipe beyond the ordinary, creating a meal you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic in this Creamy Lemon Garlic Baked Cod Recipe starts with simple, high-quality ingredients that each bring unique flavor and texture to the plate. From creamy coconut cream to the fresh zestiness of lemon juice, these essentials work in harmony to make this dish vibrant and irresistible.
- 4 cod fillets (6 oz each): Choose wild-caught, sustainably-sourced cod for the best flavor and texture.
- 1 1/2 Tbsp grass-fed ghee: Adds rich buttery notes and helps sauté aromatics; substitute avocado oil for dairy-free.
- 1 medium shallot, finely diced: Brings a subtle sweetness and depth to the sauce.
- 5 large cloves garlic, minced or pressed: Infuses the dish with amazing pungency and warmth.
- 12 oz heavy coconut cream: Provides indulgent creaminess and a gentle tropical undertone.
- 2 tsp freshly squeezed lemon juice: Gives brightness and that unmistakable citrus kick.
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard: Introduces a mild tang and complexity to the creamy sauce.
- 3/4 tsp sea salt: Enhances all the flavors perfectly without overwhelming.
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper: Adds just the right amount of mild heat and aromatic spice.
- 2 pinches cayenne pepper: Offers subtle warmth; increase slightly if you prefer a bit more kick.
- 1/4 cup pork panko: Creates a crisp, golden topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.
- Chopped parsley for garnish: Adds freshness and a pop of color to finish the dish.
- Lemon wedges for serving: For an extra burst of citrus to one’s taste.
- Extra ghee or avocado oil: Needed for greasing the baking dish and brushing the cod fillets.
How to Make Creamy Lemon Garlic Baked Cod Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by setting your oven to 400ºF (205ºC). Preparing the oven early means you’ll create a perfectly cooked, flaky cod without any waiting. While the oven warms, generously grease a 9×13-inch ceramic or glass baking dish with ghee or avocado oil to prevent sticking and contribute a subtle buttery finish.
Step 2: Season the Cod Fillets
Pat your cod fillets dry to ensure the seasonings stick perfectly and the fish bakes evenly. Place them gently into the greased baking dish, then sprinkle with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. This simple seasoning allows the delicate cod flavor to shine while laying the foundation for the rich sauce.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Lemon Garlic Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the ghee till shimmering. Toss in the finely diced shallot and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and softened but not browned — this builds the aromatic base. Next, add in the heavy coconut cream, freshly squeezed lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper. Stir well to combine and bring this luscious sauce to a gentle simmer, letting all those flavors marry beautifully.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Pour the creamy lemon garlic mixture evenly around the cod fillets in the baking dish, generously coating them but leaving enough sauce around to keep everything moist. Brush the tops of the fillets with additional ghee or avocado oil for that extra golden finish. Sprinkle the pork panko over each fillet to add a wonderfully crispy texture that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy sauce.
Step 5: Bake and Broil to Perfection
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 14 to 16 minutes, allowing the cod to cook through while the sauce thickens slightly. Finish by switching the oven to broil and broiling the dish for 3 to 5 minutes until the panko topping turns a gorgeous golden brown. Keep a close eye here to avoid burning but enjoy watching that crisp golden crust develop.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle chopped parsley generously over the cod, adding a fresh herbal note and vibrant color. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for anyone who loves an extra splash of zing. This final step brings the Creamy Lemon Garlic Baked Cod Recipe to its full glorious potential.
How to Serve Creamy Lemon Garlic Baked Cod Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley really brightens the dish visually and adds a slight peppery freshness that balances the creamy sauce. Lemon wedges are essential; squeezing a bit of extra lemon juice over the fish right before eating amplifies the citrus brightness and freshness embedded in the recipe.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with light, simple sides like steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or a crisp garden salad. For a heartier plate, creamy mashed potatoes or garlic-infused quinoa soak up the luscious sauce perfectly, rounding out a satisfying meal your family will adore.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve the cod on warmed individual plates with the creamy sauce spooned generously over the top. Garnish with a sprig of fresh parsley and a thin lemon twist. Alternatively, try plating alongside vibrant vegetable ribbons or colorful roasted root vegetables to add variety and eye-catching appeal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers of this Creamy Lemon Garlic Baked Cod Recipe should be cooled to room temperature, then stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 2 days while retaining much of their creamy texture and flavor.
Freezing
Freezing cooked cod with the creamy sauce is not recommended, as the texture of the fish and sauce can change upon thawing. For best results, prepare the recipe fresh or freeze the plain cod fillets beforehand and add the sauce after baking when ready to serve.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at a low temperature (around 300ºF/150ºC) covered with foil to prevent drying out. Alternatively, warming in a microwave at medium power in short bursts works but may slightly alter the sauce’s texture. Serve immediately after reheating for best taste.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of fish in this recipe?
Absolutely! While cod is ideal for its mild flavor and flaky texture, you can use haddock, halibut, or even tilapia. Just keep an eye on cooking times as thicker or thinner fillets may require adjustment.
Is the coconut cream flavor noticeable in the dish?
The coconut cream adds subtle creaminess and a hint of sweetness without overpowering the other flavors. It’s a great dairy-free alternative that melds beautifully with the lemon and garlic.
How spicy is the dish with cayenne pepper?
The two pinches of cayenne provide only a mild warmth that complements the creamy sauce. If you love heat, feel free to increase it slightly, but start conservatively to keep the balance right.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, just use avocado oil instead of ghee for sautéing and greasing. The coconut cream ensures it remains rich and creamy without the need for dairy, making it a great option for sensitive diets.
What’s the best way to ensure the cod stays moist while baking?
Patting the fish dry before seasoning and baking it in the creamy lemon garlic sauce prevents dryness. The sauce acts like a tender crust, keeping the cod succulent and flavorful throughout cooking.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been searching for a recipe that’s both comforting and bright, the Creamy Lemon Garlic Baked Cod Recipe is your new go-to. Its perfect blend of creamy richness, zesty lemon, and aromatic garlic will warm your kitchen and your heart. Don’t hesitate—grab fresh cod and these simple ingredients to create a dish that’s sure to become a cherished classic in your home!
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Creamy Lemon Garlic Baked Cod Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
This Creamy Lemon Garlic Baked Cod recipe features tender wild-caught cod fillets baked in a rich, flavorful coconut cream sauce infused with garlic, shallots, lemon, and a touch of cayenne. Finished with a crispy pork panko topping and garnished with fresh parsley, this dish is a delightful, elegant seafood meal perfect for a quick and healthy dinner.
Ingredients
Fish
- 4 6 oz (170g) wild-caught, sustainably-sourced cod fillets
Sauce
- 1 1/2 Tbsp grass-fed ghee (substitute avocado oil for strict dairy-free)
- 1 medium shallot, finely diced
- 5 large cloves garlic, minced or pressed
- 12 oz (340g) heavy coconut cream
- 2 tsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tsp dijon mustard
- 3/4 tsp sea salt
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 2 pinches cayenne pepper (increase to 1/16 tsp for more heat)
Topping & Garnish
- 1/4 cup (25g) pork panko
- Chopped parsley for garnish
- Lemon wedges for serving
Other
- Extra ghee or avocado oil for greasing dish and brushing on cod fillets
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400ºF (205ºC) to prepare for baking the cod.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch ceramic or glass baking dish with ghee or avocado oil to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Season Cod: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and place them evenly in the greased baking dish. Season the fillets with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Make Sauce: In a saucepan, melt the grass-fed ghee over medium heat and sauté the finely diced shallot and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent. Stir in the heavy coconut cream, lemon juice, dijon mustard, sea salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Mix well and pour the sauce evenly around the cod fillets in the baking dish.
- Add Topping and Bake: Brush the cod fillets with extra ghee or avocado oil to keep them moist, then sprinkle the pork panko evenly over the fillets. Bake in the preheated oven for 14 to 16 minutes until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Broil for Golden Finish: After baking, switch your oven to broil mode and broil the cod for 3 to 5 minutes, watching carefully, until the pork panko topping is golden brown and crispy.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve the cod fillets with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute grass-fed ghee with avocado oil to make the recipe dairy-free.
- Heavy coconut cream is used here to keep the sauce rich but dairy-free; regular heavy cream can be substituted if preferred.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper to suit your heat preference, increasing for more spice.
- Pork panko adds crunch but can be replaced with a vegetarian panko alternative for a different dietary option.
- Ensure the cod fillets are dry before seasoning to help the sauce adhere better and ensure a flavorful crust.
