Craving a restaurant-quality seafood dish without the hefty bill or wait time? This Fried Cod with Lemon Butter Sauce is the answer. With its golden, crispy coating and luscious lemony sauce, this dish delivers elegant flavors with minimal effort. Cod is a mild, flaky fish that pairs beautifully with buttery sauces, making it perfect for a quick yet satisfying dinner. Whether you’re hosting guests or just treating yourself to something special, this recipe turns a simple fish fillet into a gourmet experience.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Fried Cod:
-
4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each), patted dry
-
1 cup all-purpose flour
-
2 large eggs, beaten
-
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
-
½ teaspoon garlic powder
-
½ teaspoon paprika
-
½ teaspoon salt
-
¼ teaspoon black pepper
-
Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Lemon Butter Sauce:
-
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
-
2 garlic cloves, minced
-
Juice of 1 large lemon (about 3 tablespoons)
-
1 teaspoon lemon zest
-
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
-
Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Dredging Station
Set up three shallow bowls. In the first, place the flour. In the second, beat the eggs. In the third, combine panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Step 2: Bread the Cod
Dip each cod fillet in the flour, coating both sides evenly. Shake off the excess, then dip into the beaten eggs. Finally, press the fillet into the panko breadcrumb mixture, ensuring a full, even coating. Place the breaded cod on a plate and let it rest for 5–10 minutes. This helps the coating stick better during frying.
Step 3: Fry the Cod
Heat ½ inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot (around 350°F or 175°C), carefully add the cod fillets. Fry for about 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). Transfer the cod to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 4: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce
While the cod rests, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the lemon juice and zest. Let it simmer for 1–2 minutes, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped parsley.
Step 5: Serve
Place each fried cod fillet on a plate and spoon the warm lemon butter sauce over the top. Garnish with extra parsley or lemon slices, if desired. Serve immediately with roasted vegetables, steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad.
Tips
-
Use fresh cod if available for the best flavor and texture. Frozen cod works too, but be sure it’s completely thawed and patted dry.
-
For extra crispiness, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
-
Don’t overcrowd the pan during frying; work in batches if necessary. This keeps the oil temperature steady and ensures even cooking.
-
Customize the sauce with a touch of white wine, capers, or a pinch of chili flakes for an extra kick.
With just a few simple steps and pantry staples, you can create a restaurant-worthy meal that’s sure to impress. The crispy cod contrasts perfectly with the bright and buttery lemon sauce, making this dish a go-to for special occasions or weeknight indulgence. It’s quick, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying — just what a perfect homemade dinner should be. Give this Fried Cod with Lemon Butter Sauce a try, and bring a taste of the sea right to your table!