Baked Garlic Butter Cajun Cod Recipe
If you’re searching for a dish that’s both dazzlingly flavorful and almost too easy to pull off on a weeknight, let me introduce you to Baked Garlic Butter Cajun Cod. This recipe is a celebration of tender, flaky cod fillets bathed in a buttery, garlicky Cajun sauce that’s equal parts zesty and comforting. It’s the kind of meal that looks impressive coming out of the oven, yet requires minimal effort and ingredients you probably already have on hand. Get ready for a new seafood favorite that’s sure to wow your tastebuds and win over even the pickiest eaters at your table!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Baked Garlic Butter Cajun Cod is in its simplicity. Each ingredient brings something special to the table, from the freshness of the cod to the bold punch of Cajun seasoning. Let’s break down what you’ll need and why it matters.
- Cod fillets: Opt for fresh or thawed fillets; cod’s mild flavor and flaky texture are the perfect canvas for big, bold seasonings.
- Unsalted butter, melted: Acts as the rich, luscious base for the sauce, helping all the flavors cling to each bite of fish.
- Garlic, minced: Freshly minced garlic infuses the butter with irresistible aroma and depth.
- Cajun seasoning: The heart of the dish! Use your favorite blend for that signature smoky, spicy kick.
- Lemon juice: Adds brightness and balances the richness of the butter.
- Paprika: Gives a gentle warmth and enhances the golden color of the baked fish.
- Salt (optional): Taste your Cajun seasoning first; add a pinch of salt if needed for extra flavor.
- Black pepper: A touch of extra pepper elevates the spice profile without overwhelming the fish.
- Chopped fresh parsley and lemon wedges for garnish: Fresh parsley brings color and herbal freshness, while lemon wedges let everyone add a final spritz of citrus at the table.
How to Make Baked Garlic Butter Cajun Cod
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a baking dish. This not only saves you from a sticky cleanup but also ensures your Baked Garlic Butter Cajun Cod lifts off easily once it’s perfectly cooked.
Step 2: Mix Up the Cajun Garlic Butter
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, lemon juice, paprika, salt if using, and black pepper. Give it a good stir so the garlic and spices are evenly distributed, creating a sauce that’s fragrant and loaded with flavor.
Step 3: Prep the Cod Fillets
Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. This simple step helps the buttery Cajun mixture stick better, giving you a more flavorful and beautifully browned result. Arrange the fillets on your prepared baking sheet or dish.
Step 4: Coat the Fish
Spoon or brush the garlic butter mixture generously over each fillet, making sure every inch is covered. This is where the magic happens: as the fish bakes, the butter seeps in, and the spices create a golden crust that’s simply irresistible.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Slide the pan into the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the cod flakes easily with a fork and reads 145°F (63°C) at its thickest point. The fish should be opaque and juicy, not dry—keep an eye on it in the final minutes for best results.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Scatter chopped fresh parsley over the fillets and serve immediately with lemon wedges. The fresh parsley adds a pop of color and flavor, while the lemon brightens every bite of this Baked Garlic Butter Cajun Cod.
How to Serve Baked Garlic Butter Cajun Cod
Garnishes
The finishing touches can truly make your Baked Garlic Butter Cajun Cod shine. A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds freshness and a burst of green, while lemon wedges let each person drizzle on extra brightness to taste. If you want to impress, a light dusting of extra Cajun seasoning or a few microgreens never hurt!
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with so many sides. Try serving it over fluffy white rice or with roasted vegetables to soak up the extra sauce. A crisp green salad with a lemony vinaigrette balances out the richness, and crusty bread is perfect for mopping up every last drop of that buttery goodness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a show-stopping presentation, serve the cod fillets family-style on a large platter, surrounded by colorful veggies and lemon slices. Or, flake the baked fish into tacos with slaw and avocado for a Cajun-inspired twist. You can even serve it atop pasta tossed with olive oil, garlic, and a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning for a hearty seafood dinner.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover Baked Garlic Butter Cajun Cod, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The flavors meld even more as it sits, making for a tasty lunch the next day!
Freezing
While cod can be frozen after baking, keep in mind the texture may be a bit softer when reheated. To freeze, cool the fillets completely, wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to a month.
Reheating
For the best results, reheat the cod gently in a 300°F (150°C) oven, covered with foil to prevent it from drying out. A splash of water or lemon juice can help restore moisture. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the fish rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While cod is wonderfully mild and flaky, you can swap in haddock, halibut, or even tilapia. Just adjust the baking time based on thickness to avoid overcooking.
How spicy is Baked Garlic Butter Cajun Cod?
The spice level depends on your Cajun seasoning. If you like things on the milder side, use less seasoning or choose a mild blend. For more heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the butter mixture.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, Baked Garlic Butter Cajun Cod is naturally gluten-free, making it a great choice for anyone avoiding wheat. Just double-check your Cajun seasoning to ensure it doesn’t contain any hidden gluten.
Can I prepare the butter mixture ahead of time?
Yes! You can mix up the garlic butter and spices a day in advance. Store it covered in the fridge, then let it come to room temperature before spreading it over the fish.
What’s the best way to know when my cod is done?
Cod is perfectly cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and turns opaque all the way through. For extra certainty, use an instant-read thermometer to check that it’s reached 145°F (63°C).
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to try this Baked Garlic Butter Cajun Cod and see just how simple and satisfying homemade seafood can be. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a quick weeknight dinner, it’s sure to become a new favorite. Give it a go and let the flavors of buttery garlic, zesty Cajun spice, and tender fish win you over!
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Baked Garlic Butter Cajun Cod Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This baked garlic butter Cajun cod recipe offers a flavorful and healthy seafood dinner option. Tender cod fillets are coated in a rich garlic butter sauce infused with Cajun spices, then baked to perfection. The dish is quick to prepare and perfect for a weeknight meal, delivering a spicy, buttery taste with a fresh lemony finish.
Ingredients
Fish
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
Garlic Butter Cajun Sauce
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (optional, depending on seasoning blend)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing a baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Garlic Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, lemon juice, paprika, salt (if using), and black pepper until well combined, ensuring all flavors meld together.
- Prepare Cod Fillets: Pat the cod fillets dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture, then arrange them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet to ensure even cooking.
- Coat Cod with Sauce: Spoon or brush the garlic butter mixture generously and evenly over each cod fillet, fully coating them to infuse the flavors during baking.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cod for 12–15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily when tested with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for optimal doneness.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the cod from the oven, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve immediately with lemon wedges for an added fresh citrus boost.
Notes
- Serve this Cajun cod with rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal.
- For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the garlic butter mixture before baking.
- Adjust the salt according to your Cajun seasoning as some blends may already contain salt.
- Make sure not to overcook the cod to keep it tender and moist.
- This recipe is naturally gluten-free and low-carb.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet (about 6 oz)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 390mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
