There’s something magical about the aroma of Baked Old Bay Garlic Butter Cod wafting through your kitchen. Imagine flaky, tender fish, perfectly seasoned with that iconic blend of spices, just begging to be savored. savory chicken linguine It’s a dish that transports you straight to the coast, where the waves crash and the seagulls squawk like they’re auditioning for a Broadway play.
Speaking of transport, I remember the first time I made this recipe. It was a rainy Tuesday evening, and I was in desperate need of a culinary pick-me-up. As I pulled the cod from the oven, my family gathered around the table, their faces lighting up faster than a kid in a candy store. cheesy stuffed flank steak Moments like these remind me why cooking is so special—it’s not just about the food; it’s about creating memories.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Baked Old Bay Garlic Butter Cod is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The flavor profile is a delightful balance of rich garlic butter with zesty Old Bay seasoning
- Visually appealing with its golden crust and flaky texture, it’s bound to impress!
- Versatile enough for any occasion, this dish brings a taste of coastal dining right to your home
Looking back at that rainy evening always brings smiles and maybe even a few giggles as we recall how everyone tried to find the secret behind that irresistible flavor combination.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Fresh Cod Fillets: Look for bright white fillets with minimal odor; they should feel firm to the touch.
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Old Bay Seasoning: This classic blend adds an instant coastal vibe; you can find it in most grocery stores. For more inspiration, check out this crab stuffed portobello mushrooms recipe.
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Unsalted Butter: Use quality butter for richness; melt it gently to maintain that silky texture.
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Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic is key here; minced garlic creates an aromatic punch that elevates the dish.
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Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens flavors; skip bottled stuff for best results.
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Paprika: Smoked or sweet paprika adds depth and color; choose according to your taste preference.
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Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley gives a fresh finish and makes your plate pop with color!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). crispy oven baked sweet potatoes This ensures even cooking—no one likes a half-baked dinner!
Prepare Your Baking Dish: Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with non-stick spray or butter. This helps prevent sticking and keeps cleanup easy.
Create Your Garlic Butter Mixture: In a small saucepan over low heat, melt unsalted butter. Once melted, add minced garlic, Old Bay seasoning, and lemon juice. Stir until fragrant—your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Arrange The Cod Fillets: Place your fresh cod fillets in the prepared baking dish. Make sure they’re evenly spaced for proper cooking; no crowding allowed!
Spoon The Mixture Over Cod: Generously drizzle your garlic butter mixture over each cod fillet. Don’t be shy! The more flavorful goodness, the better.
Bake Until Flaky Perfection: Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. Keep an eye on it—overcooked fish is sad fish!
Now that you’ve got everything prepped and baked to perfection, it’s time to dig in! Serve your Baked Old Bay Garlic Butter Cod alongside some roasted vegetables or fluffy rice for a complete meal that’ll have everyone raving. creamy cauliflower mashed potatoes.
As you gather around the table enjoying this delicious dish, take a moment to appreciate how cooking can bring people together—even if it’s just you and Netflix on a cozy night in!
You Must Know
- This baked Old Bay garlic butter cod is simple yet packed with flavor
- The aroma of garlic wafts through your kitchen, making it feel like a gourmet restaurant
- It’s perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in with family
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Prepare the cod fillets while the oven warms up for maximum efficiency and perfect results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out Old Bay for your favorite seafood seasoning, or add fresh herbs like parsley or dill for extra flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven to keep the cod moist.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Remember, always pat your cod dry before seasoning to help flavors stick better
- Avoid overcrowding the baking dish for even cooking
- Investing in fresh ingredients truly enhances the final dish’s taste and aroma
Cooking this baked Old Bay garlic butter cod reminds me of my late grandmother, who always said, “If you can’t smell it, you can’t taste it.” I still hear her voice every time I whip up this dish. For more inspiration, check out this garlic butter cheese bombs recipe.
FAQ
Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?
Yes, just thaw it completely and pat it dry before seasoning.
What sides pair well with baked Old Bay garlic butter cod?
Roasted vegetables or a light salad complement this flavorful dish perfectly.
Can I make this dish spicy?
Absolutely! Add some red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a kick.
Baked Old Bay Garlic Butter Cod
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Baked Old Bay Garlic Butter Cod is a delightful seafood dish that combines tender, flaky cod fillets with the rich flavors of garlic butter and zesty Old Bay seasoning. This easy-to-make recipe delivers a taste of coastal dining right in your kitchen. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, it’s a dish that will impress family and friends alike. With its golden crust and mouthwatering aroma, this Baked Old Bay Cod is not just a meal; it’s an experience to savor.
Ingredients
- 4 fresh cod fillets (6 oz each)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp Old Bay seasoning
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add minced garlic, Old Bay seasoning, and lemon juice; stir until fragrant.
- Arrange cod fillets in the baking dish, spacing them evenly.
- Generously drizzle the garlic butter mixture over the cod.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cod fillet (170g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
