Pan-Seared Cod with Lemon Butter Sauce
Flaky cod fillets are pan-seared to golden perfection and finished with a quick, luxurious lemon butter sauce infused with garlic and herbs. A restaurant-quality dish ready in under 30 minutes.
- Prep15 min
- Cook10 min
- Total25 min
- DifficultyEasy
- Servings4
This cod recipe is incredibly simple yet delivers a sophisticated flavor profile, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
The secret lies in the quick pan-sear that creates a beautiful crust, followed by a luscious sauce made with butter, lemon, and garlic that coats the fish beautifully.
Ingredients
Servings
Converted amounts are rounded.
Method
- In a small bowl, combine flour, paprika, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Evenly coat both sides of the cod fillets with the flour mixture, ensuring all of it is used.
- Heat 1 Tbsp of butter and the olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat until the butter is melted and shimmering.
- Carefully place the cod fillets in the hot skillet. Sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork. Remove the cod from the skillet and set aside on serving plates.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the remaining 4 Tbsp of butter to the same skillet and melt it.
- Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for about 15 seconds, just until fragrant and slightly softened, being careful not to brown it.
- Remove the skillet from the heat. Carefully pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, stirring to combine. Be cautious as the mixture may steam.
- Immediately pour the warm lemon butter sauce over the cod fillets. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve right away.
💡 Tips
- Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the cod to achieve a good sear.
- Don't overcrowd the pan; cook the cod in batches if necessary.
Inspired by a recipe from Cooking Classy