Baked Garlic Butter Cajun Cod Recipe
If you’re craving a dish that brings bold flavor and irresistible tenderness to your dinner table without hours in the kitchen, Baked Garlic Butter Cajun Cod is the answer. This foolproof recipe wraps succulent cod fillets in a buttery, aromatic blanket of garlic and Cajun spices, then bakes everything to flaky perfection. It’s vibrant, a little zesty, and incredibly satisfying—making it a personal favorite for both easy weeknight dinners and special gatherings. Every bite brims with the kind of warmth and depth that makes you want just one more forkful, and the best part? You can have it ready in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for Baked Garlic Butter Cajun Cod are straightforward, but each one plays a starring role in creating a dish that’s both full of flavor and simple to prepare. Let’s break down what you’ll need—and why you don’t want to skip anything!
- Cod Fillets: Firm, flaky cod is the perfect canvas for bold seasonings and bakes up moist every time.
- Unsalted Butter: Melted butter adds a lush, rich base that helps the Cajun spices cling to the fish and keeps everything juicy.
- Fresh Garlic: Minced garlic brings pungency and warmth, tying together the Cajun spices and butter beautifully.
- Cajun Seasoning: The heart of this dish’s personality—spicy, smoky, and a little bit fiery for major flavor impact.
- Lemon Juice: A splash of lemon brightens up the richness and balances the heat with fresh, tangy zing.
- Salt: Optional and to taste, depending on your Cajun spice blend, it fine-tunes the savory bite.
- Black Pepper: Adds subtle heat and depth that enhances all the other flavors.
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped and sprinkled on top for a burst of color and a fresh finish (totally optional but wonderful).
- Lemon Wedges: Squeeze over just before serving for an extra pop of citrus that brings everything to life.
How to Make Baked Garlic Butter Cajun Cod
Step 1: Prep the Baking Dish and Cod
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a casserole dish—this makes cleanup a breeze and ensures your cod won’t stick. Pat each cod fillet dry with paper towels (don’t skip this step: it helps the butter and seasonings stick and keeps the fish from getting watery). Arrange the fillets in a single layer in your prepared dish.
Step 2: Mix Up the Garlic Butter Cajun Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, lemon juice, and black pepper (plus salt if using, depending on how salty your Cajun blend is). This golden, intoxicating mixture is what takes Baked Garlic Butter Cajun Cod into crave-worthy territory. Make sure the butter is fully melted and everything is nicely combined for even flavor distribution.
Step 3: Brush and Bake
Using a basting brush or spoon, lavishly coat each fillet with the Cajun garlic butter sauce. Don’t be shy—cover the sides and surface so that every bite sings with flavor. Slide the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the center is opaque. If you love a little crispy edge, switch your oven to broil for the last 1-2 minutes and keep a close eye to avoid burning.
Step 4: Add Finishing Touches
Once the Baked Garlic Butter Cajun Cod is done, carefully remove it from the oven. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for color and freshness. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side, ready for squeezing over each fillet. The steam, the spices, and that hint of citrus all combine for an irresistible, restaurant-worthy finish.
How to Serve Baked Garlic Butter Cajun Cod
Garnishes
For a finishing flourish, scatter a handful of chopped fresh parsley across your fillets for a vibrant pop of green and delicate herby aroma. Lemon wedges on the side are non-negotiable—you’ll love the way a squeeze of fresh juice enhances the Cajun spices and cuts through the richness of the butter. If you’re feeling fancy, try a dusting of extra Cajun seasoning for more color and heat.
Side Dishes
Baked Garlic Butter Cajun Cod is fantastic served alongside fluffy white rice or lemony jasmine rice, which both soak up the flavorful juices. It also pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or bell peppers for a wholesome meal. Want something lighter? A crisp green salad tossed with a zippy vinaigrette rounds things out and adds even more freshness to your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Elevate your presentation by plating each cod fillet over a bed of herbed rice or grain salad, nestling roasted vegetables around the fish for a modern look. For a more rustic approach, serve it family-style straight from the baking dish, sprinkled with loads of herbs and surrounded by lemon wedges for people to help themselves. For casual gatherings, flake the cod and tuck it into warm tortillas with slaw for unforgettable Cajun fish tacos with a twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have extra Baked Garlic Butter Cajun Cod, let it cool to room temperature, then store the fillets in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, it will keep well for up to 2 days. The flavors actually intensify a bit overnight, making leftovers a treat for tomorrow’s lunch or a quick dinner.
Freezing
Baked Garlic Butter Cajun Cod can be frozen, though the texture is best when served fresh. To freeze, wrap cooled fillets individually in plastic wrap and place in a zip-top freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for the best results, and avoid refreezing once the fish has thawed.
Reheating
Gently reheat leftovers in a preheated 300°F oven for about 8-10 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out. You can also microwave individual portions on medium power in 30-second bursts, but be cautious not to overcook or the cod may become rubbery. A quick squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of fresh herbs will revive all those bold flavors.
FAQs
Can I use another type Main Course
Absolutely! This recipe is fantastic with other mild, flaky white fish like haddock, tilapia, or halibut. Thicker fillets may need an extra minute or two in the oven, so keep an eye out for doneness and adjust as needed.
How spicy is Baked Garlic Butter Cajun Cod?
The spice level all depends on your Cajun seasoning. Most blends are moderately spicy, but you can customize your experience—use less for a milder dish or add a pinch of cayenne if you like things fiery. Taste your seasoning first to gauge the heat!
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, Baked Garlic Butter Cajun Cod is naturally gluten-free as long as you check that your Cajun spice blend doesn’t contain any hidden wheat or flour. Pair with gluten-free sides for a worry-free meal.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
You sure can! Simply substitute the butter with a dairy-free or vegan butter alternative. You’ll still get that luscious texture and flavor, and the Cajun spices will shine just as brightly.
What’s the best way to know if the cod is done?
Cod is perfectly cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and appears opaque throughout. If you have a thermometer, check for an internal temperature of 145°F; this ensures tender, juicy fish every time without overcooking.
Final Thoughts
Baked Garlic Butter Cajun Cod is a recipe I return to again and again for its simplicity, flavor, and total crowd-pleaser appeal. Whether you’re new to seafood or already a fan, this dish promises bold, buttery satisfaction with every bite. Give it a try—you just might find it becomes your favorite way to enjoy cod, too!
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Baked Garlic Butter Cajun Cod Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A delightful recipe for Baked Garlic Butter Cajun Cod that results in tender, flavorful cod fillets infused with a zesty Cajun butter mixture. Perfect for a quick and impressive seafood dinner.
Ingredients
Cod Fillets:
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
Garlic Butter Cajun Mixture:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (optional, depending on seasoning)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease a baking dish.
- Prepare the Cod: Pat dry the cod fillets and place them in the baking dish.
- Make the Cajun Butter Mixture: In a bowl, combine melted butter, garlic, Cajun seasoning, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Brush this mixture over each cod fillet.
- Bake: Bake for 12–15 minutes until the fish flakes easily and reaches 145°F internally. Optionally broil for a crisp top for 1–2 minutes.
- Serve: Sprinkle with parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
Notes
- Serve with rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning to suit your spice preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 430mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
