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!