Description
This Baked Garlic Butter Cajun Cod is a quick and flavorful seafood dish perfect for a healthy weeknight meal. Cod fillets are coated in a buttery, garlicky, and spicy Cajun seasoning blend, then baked to tender perfection. The result is a moist, flaky fish with a deliciously bold, smoky flavor, complemented by fresh parsley and zesty lemon wedges.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it to prevent sticking.
- Make Garlic Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter, minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create a flavorful garlic butter sauce.
- Prepare the Cod: Arrange the cod fillets evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Using a brush, generously coat each fillet with the garlic butter mixture ensuring full coverage.
- Bake the Cod: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cod for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque, cooked through, and flakes easily with a fork.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the cod from the oven, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley if using, and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side to add a bright citrus flavor.
Notes
- Make sure not to overcook the cod to keep it tender and moist.
- If fresh parsley is unavailable, dried parsley can be used, but add it after baking to retain flavor.
- You can adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to your preferred spice level.
- Serve with your favorite side dishes such as steamed vegetables, rice, or crusty bread.
- The lemon wedges can be squeezed over the fish just before eating to enhance the flavors.
