Seafood lovers, you’re in for a treat! We understand the appeal of a delicious and healthy fish recipe, which is why we’re thrilled to share one of our absolute favorites. If you’ve enjoyed our other popular cod creations like Sheet Pan Mediterranean Cod, Baked Cod with Lemon, or Air Fryer Cod, then this pan-fried version is sure to become a new staple in your culinary repertoire.

As we navigate healthy eating goals, incorporating seafood into our weekly menu is a fantastic way to stay on track. This Pan-Fried Garlic Butter Cod offers a delightful blend of fresh flavors and a satisfying texture. It’s not just tasty; it’s a wholesome meal that comes together in approximately 10 minutes in a single skillet, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. The cooking process is similar to our Pan Fried Fish or Black Sea Bass Recipe, where searing the fish on high heat creates that irresistible crispy crust on the outside.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Pan-Fried Cod Recipe

This Pan-Fried Garlic Butter Cod isn’t just another fish recipe; it’s a culinary triumph designed for simplicity, speed, and sensational flavor. Here’s why it’s destined to become a family favorite:

• Effortlessly Quick: From prep to plate, this meal is ready in under 25 minutes, with actual cooking time around 10 minutes. Perfect for those busy evenings when you crave something homemade but quick.
• Healthy & Wholesome: Cod is an excellent source of lean protein, essential vitamins, and minerals, making it a fantastic choice for a nutritious dinner.
• Flavorful & Aromatic: The combination of pan-fried garlic, rich butter, and fresh basil creates an incredibly aromatic and savory sauce that elevates the natural mildness of the cod.
• Crispy Perfection: Achieving a beautifully golden, crispy crust on the exterior while keeping the inside tender and flaky is the hallmark of this recipe.
• Versatile & Adaptable: Easily customize the flavors with different herbs, spices, or a squeeze of fresh citrus to suit your preferences.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters are likely to enjoy this mild-flavored fish, especially with the delicious garlic butter sauce.

Essential Ingredients for Garlic Butter Cod

This recipe relies on a few simple, high-quality ingredients to deliver maximum flavor. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need, with notes on selection and substitutions. For exact measurements, please refer to the comprehensive recipe card below.

• Cod Fillets: The star of our dish! We recommend 1 1/2 to 2 pounds of cod fillets. Wild-caught Alaskan cod is often praised for its pure, clean taste and excellent flaky texture. However, any variety of cod, whether Atlantic or Pacific, will yield delicious results. If you’re using frozen cod, ensure it’s fully thawed overnight in the refrigerator and thoroughly patted dry before cooking to prevent sogginess and achieve that desirable crispy crust.
• Olive Oil: Used for both dipping the fish and pan-frying. Extra virgin olive oil adds a lovely mild flavor, but any good quality cooking oil with a high smoke point will work for frying.
• All-Purpose Flour: A light coating of flour helps create a beautiful golden-brown crust and seals in the moisture of the fish.
• Seasonings:
  • Sea Salt & Ground Black Pepper: Basic seasonings to enhance the cod’s natural flavor.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: (Optional) Adds a subtle kick. Adjust to your heat preference.
  • Basil: Fresh basil is highly recommended for its vibrant, aromatic contribution to the garlic butter sauce. If fresh basil is unavailable, dried basil can be used, but use about one-third of the amount as dried herbs are more potent.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Finely shredded or grated Parmesan cheese mixed into the flour coating creates an irresistible savory and crispy exterior on the cod. It melts slightly and forms a delicious crust.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is paramount for this recipe, infusing the fish and sauce with a robust, irresistible aroma and flavor. Six cloves might seem like a lot, but trust us, it’s perfect for a true garlic butter experience. If fresh garlic is truly out of reach, garlic powder can be used in a pinch, but the depth of flavor will differ.
• Chicken Broth: A touch of chicken broth adds savory depth to the butter sauce, helping to deglaze the pan and create a more integrated flavor profile. Vegetable broth can be substituted for a seafood-only approach.
• Unsalted Butter: Butter is essential for the rich, velvety finish of the garlic sauce. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the overall saltiness of the dish. For a dairy-free alternative, a good quality extra virgin olive oil can replace the butter, though the flavor profile will be slightly different.

Creative Ways to Customize Your Pan-Fried Cod

One of the beauties of this Pan-Fried Garlic Butter Cod recipe is its adaptability. Feel free to experiment with these delicious modifications to suit your taste or what you have on hand:

• A Bright Citrus Boost: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of lemon zest added to the garlic butter sauce or drizzled over the cooked fish can really brighten the flavors. Lime juice or orange zest can also offer an interesting twist. Add the juice right after the chicken broth for a tangy finish.
• Spice It Up: Don’t limit yourself to just red pepper flakes. Enhance the seasoning blend with onion powder for sweetness, a pinch of cayenne pepper for more heat, Italian seasoning for an herb medley, or even za’atar or dried oregano for a Mediterranean flair. Adjust quantities to your preference.
• Elevate with Wine: A splash of dry white wine (like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc) can deglaze the pan beautifully and add a subtle sweetness and complexity to the butter sauce. Add about 1/4 cup of wine at the same time you add the chicken broth, letting it simmer to reduce slightly before adding the butter.
• Add More Mediterranean Flavors: For a heartier dish, consider incorporating other ingredients into the skillet during the final sauce-making steps. Capers add a briny pop, chopped artichoke hearts or sun-dried tomatoes bring a sweet-tart note, sliced olives offer a salty depth, or roasted red peppers for a smoky sweetness. Sauté these briefly with the garlic before adding broth and butter.
• Herb Variations: While basil is fantastic, fresh parsley, dill, or chives can also be used as a garnish or mixed into the sauce for different flavor profiles.

Step-by-Step: How to Pan Fry Cod in Butter Perfectly

Follow these simple steps to achieve a perfectly cooked, flaky, and crispy garlic butter cod.

1. Prepare the Coating Stations: Pour 2 tablespoons of olive oil into a shallow bowl. In a separate shallow mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sea salt, ground black pepper, red pepper flakes (if using), 2 minced garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons of fresh or dried basil, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Prepare the Cod: Pat the cod fillets thoroughly dry with paper towels. This crucial step helps remove excess moisture, ensuring a crispier crust.
3. Coat the Cod: Dip each cod fillet into the shallow bowl of olive oil, ensuring both sides are lightly coated. Then, transfer the oily fillet to the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating on all sides. Shake off any excess flour – a thin, even coat is what you’re aiming for.
4. Preheat the Skillet: Place a sturdy skillet (a cast iron pan or heavy-bottomed frying pan works best) over medium-high heat. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the hot pan. Once the oil shimmers slightly, reduce the heat to medium to prevent burning while still achieving a good sear.

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6. First Side Sear: Carefully place the coated cod fillets into the hot skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan (cook in batches if necessary). Fry the fish on one side for about 5 minutes. Resist the urge to move or flip the cod during this time; this allows a beautiful, crispy crust to form.

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8. Second Side Cook: Using a fish spatula, carefully flip the cod fillets. Cook for another 5 minutes on the second side, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F when measured with a meat thermometer at the thickest part. The fish should be opaque throughout and flake easily with a fork.

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11. Rest the Fish: Once cooked, carefully remove the fish from the skillet and place it on a plate lined with paper towels. This will help absorb any excess oil and keep the crust crisp.

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13. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet (no need to clean it!), add the remaining 4 tablespoons of minced garlic, butter, the last 1 tablespoon of fresh basil, and chicken broth. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the butter is melted, the garlic is fragrant, and the sauce begins to boil and slightly thicken.
14. Serve and Enjoy: Remove the sauce from the heat and let it cool for at least 2 minutes. Transfer it to a gravy boat or a small ramekin. Serve the pan-fried cod immediately, drizzling generously with the warm garlic basil sauce. Garnish with additional fresh parsley if desired.

Serving Suggestions for Pan-Fried Cod

This versatile Pan-Fried Garlic Butter Cod pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes, making it easy to create a balanced and delicious meal. Here are some ideas:

• Fresh Salads: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette, or a more robust Mediterranean salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives, complements the rich flavors of the cod perfectly.
• Roasted Vegetables: Asparagus, broccoli, green beans, or cherry tomatoes roasted with a touch of olive oil and garlic make an excellent healthy side.
• Grains: Quinoa, couscous, or a light rice pilaf absorb the delicious garlic butter sauce beautifully.
• Potatoes: Mashed potatoes, roasted baby potatoes, or even crispy potato wedges offer a comforting contrast.
• Pasta: A simple pasta tossed with olive oil, a squeeze of lemon, and fresh herbs can be a delightful accompaniment.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To enjoy leftovers, allow the cooked cod to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to reheat, you have a few options to maintain its best texture:

• Skillet: Gently warm the cod in a non-stick skillet over low to medium heat with a small amount of oil or butter, just until heated through. Be careful not to overcook, as this can dry out the fish.
• Oven: For best results, reheat in a preheated oven at 275°F (135°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warm. This method helps the exterior regain some of its crispiness without drying out the interior.
• Microwave: While quick, the microwave can sometimes make fish rubbery. If using, reheat on a low power setting in short bursts, checking frequently, to prevent overcooking.

Expert Tips for Perfectly Pan-Fried Cod

Achieving a restaurant-quality pan-fried cod is easier than you think with these expert tips: