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.
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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
Tips for Perfect Pan-Seared Cod
- Dry the fillets thoroughly – This ensures a crispy, golden exterior.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan – Sear fish in batches if necessary.
- Use fresh lemon – Lemon juice and zest make the sauce bright and tangy.
- Butter at the end – Adding butter after searing enhances flavor without burning.
- Serve immediately – Fish is best enjoyed hot off the pan.
A Simple Yet Elegant Seafood Dish
This Lemon Butter Pan-Seared Cod is proof that quick meals can still feel gourmet. With minimal ingredients and a few simple steps, you can enjoy tender, flaky cod coated in a luscious lemon butter sauce anytime.
It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, a date night at home, or even a dinner party centerpiece. Juicy, flavorful, and light on the palate, it’s a dish that will become a repeat favorite.
