Broiled Cod
Ever get hit with that sudden seafood craving on a busy weeknight? I’ve got the perfect fix for you: a Broiled Cod that’s crispy and flaky on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside, and (wait for it) ready in under 20 minutes. Broiling cod? Absolute genius move! It’s quick, effortless, and honestly, I think it knocks baking right out of the water.
Usually, when I’m thinking seafood for dinner, salmon is my first pick. It’s like my reliable kitchen BFF. But this broiled cod recipe? It’s quickly climbed the ranks to become a star in my cookbook and a new favorite around the family dinner table. It’s just so moist, flaky, and yummy! Don’t get me wrong, though – cod is a champ in any form it takes. But much like broiled salmon, when you broil cod, the texture and flavor truly elevate to a whole new level of deliciousness.
Broiled Cod Overview
Cuisine Inspiration: American
Number of Ingredients: 6 (excluding salt & pepper)
Feeds: A family of 6
Total Cook Time: 16 minutes
Primary Cooking Method: Broiling
Dietary Info: Gluten-Free, Low-Carb
Key Flavor: Buttery with hints of lemon and garlic
Skill Level: Beginner
Notable mentions
- Short Ingredient List: This broiled cod recipe is a dream for those who love simplicity (guilty!). With just 6 easy-to-find ingredients, you’re already on your way to a delicious, gourmet-like meal. Everything you need is likely already in your kitchen or just a quick stop away at your local grocery store!
- A Healthy Choice: Cod is PACKED with lean protein and essential vitamins, making it a win for anyone looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Plus, the use of unsalted butter and fresh lemon in this recipe adds flavor without compromising health.
- Kid-Approved: If you’re battling to get the little ones to eat fish, this broiled cod could be your strongest ally. Its mild flavor means there’s nothing too fishy to turn up tiny noses, and the golden, buttery crust is enough to make any picky eater curious.
- Versatile with Side Dishes: This dish is like the best kind of dinner guest – it goes well with almost anything! Whether you’re a fan of steamed green beans, a crisp salad, roasted potatoes, or even a simple bowl of buttered rice, broiled cod complements it all.
Ingredients to make Broiled Cod
- Cod Filets: You’ve got options like wild-caught cod, Pacific cod, or even black cod (fun fact: black cod isn’t actually cod!). I usually lean towards Atlantic cod for its availability and fairly low price.
- Butter: To add that rich, velvety texture to our broiled cod fillets. If you’re looking to cut down on dairy, you can swap in a plant-based butter alternative. Just aim for something that’ll melt nicely and mingle well with the other flavors.
- Garlic: Garlic is the heart and soul of flavor town here, so don’t skimp! If you’re not up for peeling and mincing, pre-minced garlic or even a dash of garlic powder in a pinch can work – but fresh is always best.
- Lemon: We’ll use fresh lemon juice and grated lemon zest. This citrus kick is non-negotiable – it really brightens up the dish. No fresh lemons? A bit of bottled lemon juice can save the day, though you might miss out on that zesty punch from the zest.
- Seasonings: Good ‘ol s&p. Feel free to adjust to your taste!
- Fresh Parsley: It not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh, herby hint to the finished dish.
How to make Broiled Cod
Step 1: Melt the Butter and infuse it
- Melt the butter in a large, oven-proof frying pan over medium heat.
- Sauté the minced garlic in the butter until fragrant.
- Stir in the fresh lemon juice and zest to infuse the butter.
Step 2: Sear the cod and broil it
- Season the cod filets with half of the salt and pepper, then place them in the pan. Let them sear for about 1 minute.
- Carefully flip the cod filets, seasoning the other side with the remaining salt and pepper, and sear for another minute.
- Place the pan under the broiler. Broil until the cod is thoroughly cooked and flakes easily with a fork.
- Once broiled, sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve.
Popular substitutions & additions
- Swap the Seasoning: Instead of the classic salt and pepper, why not give your cod a spicy kick? A blend of smoked paprika and a pinch of cayenne can add a warm, smoky depth with just the right amount of heat.
- Try Different Garnishes: Lemon slices are a classic, but don’t stop there! Try garnishing your broiled cod with capers, olives, or even a sprinkle of toasted almond flakes for a crunchy contrast.
- Herb It Up: I love parsley, but experimenting with different herbs can bring new life to your easy broiled cod. Consider using fresh basil, cilantro, or even tarragon for a fresh twist.
- Experiment with Citrus: Lemon is the MVP in this recipe, but other citrus fruits like lime, orange, or even grapefruit can offer equally zesty and unique flavors. My kids really dig the sweetness of grapefruit!
Tips for making the best broiled cod with lemon butter
- Use Same-Sized Fillets: When you’re picking out your cod, try to choose pieces that are similar in size and thickness. This isn’t just about looks – it ensures that all your fillets cook at the same rate, preventing some from drying out while others are just right.
- Pat the Fillets Dry: Before seasoning, give your cod fillets a good ‘ol pat-down with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This might seem like a small step, but it’s crucial for achieving that pretty, crispy exterior.
- Go for the Middle Rack: When it’s time to broil, placing your pan on the middle rack can really make a difference. This spot allows for the perfect balance of heat, ensuring your cod gets beautifully browned without the risk of burning.
- Keep an Eye on the Oven: Cod can go from perfectly done to overcooked in a heartbeat, especially under the broiler. To avoid dry and sad broiled cod fillets, start checking on your fish a few minutes before the timer dings. Look for a flaky texture and opaque color!
How to store & reheat Broiled Cod
To keep your broiled cod with lemon butter fresh, store it in the fridge! Let it cool down to room temperature first (but don’t leave it out too long!). Then, snugly wrap it in aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container.
When it comes to reheating, if you’re using the microwave, place your cod on a dish and lightly cover it. Then, zap it for about a minute. If you prefer the stovetop, just heat it gently in a skillet over medium heat until it’s warmed through.
How long will Broiled Cod last in the fridge?
This broiled cod will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 2 days. Remember, freshness is key with seafood, so don’t push your luck beyond this!
Can I freeze broiled cod fillets?
Yes, you can freeze broiled cod! Make sure it’s cooled and then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to fend off freezer burn. Properly stored, it’ll keep its freshness for up to 3 months. Once you want to enjoy a fillet again, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What to serve with Broiled Cod
- Pasta: Cod actually goes really well with pasta, like Cacio E Pepe, which is really just cheese and noodles.
- Veggies: Brightening up your plate with some veggies is always a smart move. I’ve tried them all – Almondine Green Beans, asparagus, broccoli, carrots. My personal fave? Roasted asparagus with a little garlic.
- Rice: You can’t go wrong with rice. Jasmine rice is like a fluffy cloud perfect for catching all those lovely buttery juices, but you can also go for brown rice or cilantro lime rice.
- Salad: For a lighter touch, I lean towards a crunchy broccoli salad or a quinoa salad packed with all the goods. I once whipped up a quinoa salad with some lemon vinaigrette for a potluck, and lemme tell you, it was the first dish to disappear!
- Mashed Potatoes: And, of course, the classic sidekick – mashed potatoes. Always comforting, always a hit. I’ve got a soft spot for garlic mashed potatoes. And when you scoop them up with a piece of broiled cod with lemon butter? Oh, it’s heavenly.
Frequently asked questions
I don’t have an oven-proof pan. What can I use instead?
If you’re missing an oven-proof pan, just follow the recipe to prepare the lemon butter and sear the fillets in whatever pan you have. Then, carefully transfer the cod fillets to a baking dish, drizzle the lemon butter sauce right over them, and pop it under the broiler.
Can I flake the fillets for other dishes?
Absolutely! They’re perfect for making fish tacos, tossing them into some pasta, sprinkling over a salad, or stuffing them into wraps for a quick and healthy lunch option.
Can I make this recipe with frozen cod?
Definitely! But make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge and pat the fillets dry before you start cooking.
Once you’ve got the hang of this Broiled Cod recipe, you’ll be eyeing every fish in the market, thinking, “I bet you’d look good under a broiler too!”. And why not? Broiling is such a fab way to cook fish – it’s quick, easy, and brings out the best in the seafood’s flavor. So just go ahead and shoot a batch of this buttery, garlicky, and zesty deliciousness!
More Easy Dinner recipes:
- Slow Cooker Lentil Curry (5 Ingredients)
- Slow Cooker Garlic Chicken (5 Ingredients)
- Slow Cooker Lemon Chicken
- Octopus Salad
- Sheet Pan Burgers
- Copycat Chipotle Chicken
- Swiss Steak
- Bacon Wrapped Shrimp
I want to hear from you! If you try this easy Broiled Cod recipe or any other of my 5 ingredient or less recipes on Dinner in 5, then don’t forget to rate the recipe and leave a comment below! I read all the comments and respond!
Broiled Cod
Ingredients
- 6 cod filets about 8oz in size each
- 3/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5 garlic cloves finely minced
- 1.5 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1.5 teaspoons grated lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Switch your oven to the broil setting to preheat.
- Melt the butter in a large 13 inch, oven-proof skillet over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic in the butter until fragrant, about 1 to 2 minutes. Stir in the fresh lemon juice and zest to infuse the butter.
- Season the cod filets on both sides then place them in the pan. Let sear for about 1 minute. Carefully flip the cod filets, seasoning the other side with the remaining salt and pepper, and sear for another minute.
- Place the pan under the broiler. Broil for 6 to 9 minutes, or until the cod is thoroughly cooked and flakes easily with a fork. Once broiled, sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve.
Notes
- Use Same-Sized Fillets: When you’re picking out your cod, try to choose pieces that are similar in size and thickness. This isn’t just about looks – it ensures that all your fillets cook at the same rate, preventing some from drying out while others are just right.
- Pat the Fillets Dry: Before seasoning, give your cod fillets a good ‘ol pat-down with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This might seem like a small step, but it’s crucial for achieving that pretty, crispy exterior.
- Go for the Middle Rack: When it’s time to broil, placing your pan on the middle rack can really make a difference. This spot allows for the perfect balance of heat, ensuring your cod gets beautifully browned without the risk of burning.
- Keep an Eye on the Oven: Cod can go from perfectly done to overcooked in a heartbeat, especially under the broiler. To avoid dry and sad broiled cod fillets, start checking on your fish a few minutes before the timer dings. Look for a flaky texture and opaque color!
Nutrition
Nutrition information provided is an estimate. It will vary based on cooking method and specific ingredients used.
