Description
This pan-fried cod is crispy on the outside, flaky on the inside, and drizzled with a rich lemon butter sauce that elevates every bite. With minimal ingredients and a quick cooking time, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal. Serve it with rice, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad for a restaurant-quality seafood dish at home!
Who is this Recipe For?
This recipe is great for:
✔️ Seafood lovers who enjoy a light yet flavorful dish
✔️ Busy home cooks looking for a quick 20-minute meal
✔️ Health-conscious eaters who want a high-protein, low-carb dinner
✔️ Anyone who loves fresh, zesty, and buttery flavors
Why It’s Great
✅ Quick & Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes
✅ Healthy & Light: Packed with lean protein and omega-3s
✅ Minimal Ingredients: Simple pantry staples
✅ Versatile: Serve with rice, veggies, or pasta
✅ Restaurant-Quality: But easy to make at home
Ingredients
For the Cod:
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4 cod fillets (6 oz each), patted dry
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2 tbsp olive oil
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Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Lemon Butter Sauce:
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4 tbsp unsalted butter
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Juice of 1 lemon
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2 tbsp fresh herbs, finely chopped (parsley, dill, or tarragon)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
✔️ Large skillet (preferably non-stick or cast iron)
✔️ Spatula for flipping
✔️ Small bowl for mixing sauce
✔️ Paper towels for patting the fish dry
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cod
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Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels—this helps create a golden, crispy exterior.
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Season both sides of the fillets with salt, pepper, and half of the fresh herbs.
Step 2: Pan-Fry the Cod
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
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Add the cod fillets and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until the outside is golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork. (Tip: Do not move the fish too much while cooking to get a nice crust.)
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Transfer the cooked cod to a plate and cover loosely with foil to keep warm.
Step 3: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce
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Reduce the heat to medium and add butter to the same skillet. Let it melt completely.
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Stir in the lemon juice and remaining fresh herbs. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!
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Pour the lemon butter sauce over the cooked cod fillets.
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Garnish with extra fresh herbs and lemon slices if desired.
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Serve immediately with steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Storage & Reheating
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Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
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Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a little butter or olive oil. Avoid microwaving, as it can dry out the fish.
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Freezing: Not recommended, as cod can become mushy when thawed.
FAQ
1. Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?
Yes! Just thaw the cod completely and pat it dry before cooking to ensure a crispy texture.
2. What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
You can substitute 1 tsp dried parsley, dill, or tarragon for fresh herbs.
3. What other fish can I use?
This recipe works well with halibut, tilapia, haddock, or sea bass.
4. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute vegan butter or extra olive oil for the butter.
5. What sides go well with this dish?
This dish pairs well with:
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Garlic butter rice
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Roasted asparagus or green beans
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Mashed potatoes
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A light garden salad
Conclusion
This Pan-Fried Cod with Lemon Butter Sauce is an elegant, simple, and incredibly flavorful dish that you can whip up in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a special occasion, this dish will become a new favorite in your home. Try it today and bring restaurant-style seafood to your dinner table!
