If you’re searching for a dinner that’s as easy to make as it is impressive, look no further than Baked Cod with Lemon-Dill Sauce. This dish is the perfect blend of flaky, tender cod fillets elevated by a creamy, zesty sauce that comes together in minutes. The bright flavors of lemon and fresh dill make each bite feel like a celebration of freshness, while the luscious sauce adds just enough richness to make it feel like a special treat. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or just looking to add more healthy meals to your weeknight rotation, this recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Baked Cod with Lemon-Dill Sauce lies in its simplicity, with each ingredient playing an important role in creating a dish that’s vibrant and satisfying. Gather these kitchen staples and you’ll be amazed by how much flavor they bring to your table.
- Cod fillets: Mild, flaky, and perfect for soaking up the luscious lemon-dill sauce.
- Olive oil: Adds a touch of richness and ensures the fish stays moist while baking.
- Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the cod and balances the sauce.
- Black pepper: Delivers a subtle warmth that complements the brightness of the lemon.
- Unsalted butter: Lends creaminess and depth to the sauce, making it irresistibly silky.
- Garlic: Gives the sauce an aromatic boost; be sure to use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
- Lemon juice: The foundation of the sauce’s zesty character—freshly squeezed is best!
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt: Adds tang and creaminess; Greek yogurt is a great choice for a lighter touch.
- Fresh dill: Brings a burst of herbal freshness that ties the whole dish together.
- Dijon mustard: Offers a gentle tang and complexity to the sauce.
- Lemon wedges and extra dill: Perfect for garnishing and giving each plate a restaurant-quality finish.
How to Make Baked Cod with Lemon-Dill Sauce
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Lightly grease a baking dish with a bit of olive oil or nonstick spray. This will help the cod fillets release easily after baking and prevent any sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Cod Fillets
Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to ensure they bake up tender and flaky. Brush each fillet with olive oil, then season both sides with salt and black pepper. Arrange the fillets in your prepared baking dish, making sure they’re spaced apart for even cooking.
Step 3: Bake the Cod
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. The cod is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and turns opaque. Keep an eye on it—overbaking can dry out the delicate fish.
Step 4: Make the Lemon-Dill Sauce
While the cod bakes, get started on the star of this recipe: the lemon-dill sauce. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat, then add the minced garlic. Sauté for about a minute, just until fragrant. Stir in the lemon juice, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), chopped dill, and Dijon mustard. Whisk everything together and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and gently warmed through. Don’t let it boil—just a gentle heat is perfect.
Step 5: Plate and Finish
Once the cod is cooked, remove it from the oven and carefully spoon the warm lemon-dill sauce over each fillet. Garnish generously with fresh lemon wedges and extra dill. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
How to Serve Baked Cod with Lemon-Dill Sauce
Garnishes
A vibrant garnish can make your Baked Cod with Lemon-Dill Sauce truly shine. Add a few sprigs of fresh dill and a couple of lemon wedges to each plate—their color pops beautifully against the creamy sauce and delicate fish. A sprinkle of cracked black pepper or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can also add a touch of elegance.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Roasted potatoes, steamed green beans, or a bright rice pilaf are classic options that soak up any extra sauce. For a lighter meal, try serving it alongside a crisp green salad or seasonal vegetables tossed with a bit of olive oil and lemon.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to elevate your presentation, try serving the cod fillets atop a bed of sautéed spinach or quinoa. You can also create individual foil packets for each fillet and sauce—perfect for a picnic or a casual dinner party. For a family-style meal, arrange the fillets on a large platter, spoon the sauce over, and finish with a flourish of dill and lemon slices.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover Baked Cod with Lemon-Dill Sauce, store the fillets and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The fish will keep well for up to two days, though it’s best enjoyed fresh for peak tenderness.
Freezing
While cod generally freezes well, dairy-based sauces like this lemon-dill one can sometimes separate after thawing. If you’d like to freeze the cod, do so without the sauce. Wrap each fillet tightly and freeze for up to one month. Make a fresh batch of sauce when you’re ready to serve.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the cod in a 300°F oven, covered with foil to prevent drying. The sauce can be reheated in a small saucepan over low heat; add a splash of water or lemon juice if it thickens too much. Avoid using high heat, as it can make the cod tough and the sauce grainy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cod fillets for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the fillets completely and pat them very dry before baking. Excess moisture can prevent the cod from getting that perfect flaky texture.
Is there a substitute for fresh dill?
If you can’t find fresh dill, you can use 2 teaspoons of dried dill in the sauce. While the flavor won’t be quite as vibrant, it still gives that signature herby note to Baked Cod with Lemon-Dill Sauce.
What can I use instead of sour cream or Greek yogurt?
Crème fraîche or plain, unsweetened skyr are good alternatives. They’ll both add a creamy tang that works beautifully with the lemon and dill.
How do I know when the cod is perfectly cooked?
The cod is done when it’s opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Overcooked cod can become dry, so start checking around the 12-minute mark, especially if your fillets are on the thinner side.
Can I make the lemon-dill sauce ahead of time?
Yes! The sauce can be made a few hours ahead and stored in the fridge. Just reheat it gently on the stove, whisking well, before serving over your Baked Cod with Lemon-Dill Sauce.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so satisfying about bringing a dish like Baked Cod with Lemon-Dill Sauce to the table—it’s wholesome, vibrant, and feels a little bit special without any fuss. Give it a try and watch it become a regular request in your kitchen!
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Baked Cod with Lemon-Dill Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Baked Cod with Lemon-Dill Sauce is a fresh and flavorful dish featuring tender cod fillets baked to perfection and topped with a creamy, tangy lemon-dill sauce. It’s a simple and healthy main course that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special meal, offering a delightful balance of citrus and herb flavors.
Ingredients
Fish
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- juice of 1 lemon
- ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Garnish
- Lemon wedges
- Extra fresh dill
Instructions
- Prepare and season the cod: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish. Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Brush each fillet evenly with olive oil and season with salt and black pepper on both sides. Arrange the fillets in the prepared baking dish in a single layer.
- Bake the fish: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the cod for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork, ensuring it is cooked through but still tender and moist.
- Make the lemon-dill sauce: While the cod bakes, melt the unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Stir in the lemon juice, sour cream (or Greek yogurt if preferred), chopped fresh dill, and Dijon mustard. Whisk the mixture continuously for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and warmed through. Do not boil to prevent curdling.
- Serve: Remove the baked cod from the oven and spoon the lemon-dill sauce generously over each fillet. Garnish with fresh lemon wedges and additional dill sprigs for an extra burst of flavor and visual appeal. Serve immediately while hot for the best taste experience.
Notes
- For a lighter and tangier sauce, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fluffy rice pilaf.
- Ensure the fish is not overcooked to maintain its tender texture.
- Fresh dill is preferred for the best flavor, but dried dill can be used in a pinch (use about 1 teaspoon dried).
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet with sauce
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 390 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 29 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg
