This Pan-Seared Cod is a simple yet impressive dish that’s light, flaky, and full of flavor.
With a beautifully golden crust and juicy interior, this recipe comes together in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for easy weeknight dinners or elegant meals at home.
Why You’ll Love This Pan-Seared Cod
Quick and easy – ready in less than 20 minutes
Light and healthy – packed with protein and low in calories
Crispy on the outside, tender inside – perfect texture
Minimal ingredients – pantry staples you already have
Family-friendly – mild flavor that everyone loves
Pairs with endless sides – rice, veggies, or salads
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Fresh cod fillets – about 6 oz each, boneless and skinless
Olive oil – for a golden sear
Unsalted butter – adds richness to the sauce
Garlic cloves – minced for aromatic flavor
Salt and black pepper – essential seasonings
Fresh parsley – optional garnish for color and freshness
Pro Tips Before You Start
Pat the cod dry with paper towels for a better sear
Preheat your pan well before adding the fish
Avoid moving the fish once it’s in the pan to allow a crisp crust to form
Use fresh lemon for the best flavor
Cook cod just until opaque to keep it tender
How to Make Pan-Seared Cod
Prepare the cod
Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels.
Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
Heat the pan
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking.
Sear the cod
Place the cod fillets into the pan and cook undisturbed for about 3–4 minutes until golden brown.
Flip and finish cooking
Carefully flip the fillets. Add butter and garlic to the pan.
Spoon the melted butter and garlic over the fish as it cooks another 2–3 minutes until fully cooked and flaky.
Add lemon
Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fillets before serving.
Garnish and serve
Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
What to Serve It With
Garlic butter asparagus
Creamy mashed potatoes
Steamed broccoli or green beans
Simple mixed greens salad
Rice pilaf or lemon herb quinoa
Variations / Substitutions
Use different fish like haddock, halibut, or tilapia
Add a splash of white wine to the pan for a quick pan sauce
Spice it up with red pepper flakes or Cajun seasoning
Top with capers for a salty, briny finish
Swap butter for ghee for a richer flavor
Storage & Leftovers
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days
Reheat gently: Warm on low heat in a skillet or in the microwave at 50% power
Best eaten fresh: Fish is most delicious right after cooking
Avoid freezing cooked cod: It can become dry and rubbery when reheated
FAQs
How do I know when cod is cooked?
It should flake easily with a fork and appear opaque throughout.
Can I use frozen cod fillets?
Yes, just thaw them completely and pat dry before searing.
What type of pan is best for searing cod?
A stainless steel or cast iron skillet works best for achieving a crispy crust.
Why does my fish stick to the pan?
Make sure your pan and oil are hot enough before adding the cod, and don’t move it too early.
Can I marinate cod before cooking?
A short marinade (about 15–30 minutes) in lemon and herbs can add extra flavor but isn’t necessary.
What can I add for extra flavor?
Try a sprinkle of smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, or drizzle of garlic butter sauce.
Is cod a healthy fish?
Yes! Cod is low in fat, high in protein, and rich in important nutrients like B12 and omega-3s.
Final Thoughts
This Pan-Seared Cod is the perfect recipe for when you want something easy yet impressive.
With its crisp golden crust and juicy, tender interior, it’s a guaranteed favorite you’ll come back to again and again.
Perfect for busy nights or special dinners!
Full Recipe Card
Ingredients
4 cod fillets (6 oz each), boneless and skinless
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 garlic cloves, minced
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions
Pat cod dry and season with salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear cod for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
Add butter and garlic, spooning over fish as it finishes cooking.
Squeeze lemon juice over cod and garnish with parsley.
Serve immediately.
