Garlic Butter Cod Strips
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
- Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Cod
- 1½ pounds fresh cod fillets
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Garlic Butter Sauce
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Garnish
- Lemon wedges
- Fresh parsley
- Freshly ground black pepper
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet
- Sharp knife
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Tongs
- Spatula
- Cutting board
Prepare the Cod
Pat the cod fillets dry using paper towels.
Removing excess moisture helps create a better golden crust.
Cut the fillets into strips approximately 1 inch wide and 4–5 inches long.
Season evenly with:
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Paprika
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Dried parsley
Allow the fish to rest for about 10 minutes while the seasonings absorb.
Coat the Fish
Place the flour in a shallow bowl.
Lightly coat each cod strip with flour.
Shake off any excess flour.
A light coating helps produce a delicate golden crust without overpowering the fish.
Cook the Cod
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat (about 375°F / 190°C).
Once the oil is hot, carefully add the cod strips in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, or until the fish is golden brown and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
Transfer the cooked cod to a plate and keep warm while preparing the sauce.
Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium (about 325°F / 165°C).
Add the butter to the same skillet.
Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly until fragrant. Avoid browning the garlic, as it can become bitter.
Add:
- Chopped parsley
- Lemon zest
- Lemon juice
- Crushed red pepper flakes (if using)
Cook for another 30 seconds, allowing the flavors to combine.
Finish the Dish
Return the cod strips to the skillet.
Gently spoon the garlic butter sauce over each piece.
Cook for 1 minute to warm everything through and coat the fish evenly.
Remove from the heat immediately to prevent overcooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Garlic Butter Cod Strips hot with your favorite sides, such as:
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Steamed jasmine rice
- Buttered noodles
- Roasted asparagus
- Green beans
- Steamed broccoli
- Coleslaw
- Caesar salad
- French fries
- Sweet potato wedges
- Grilled vegetables
- Warm dinner rolls
For extra freshness, garnish with chopped parsley and lemon wedges.
Tips for Success
- Choose fresh, firm cod fillets with a mild ocean scent.
- Pat the fish dry before seasoning to help the coating adhere.
- Do not overcook the cod; it should remain moist and flaky.
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
- Cook in batches to ensure even browning.
- Warm the serving plates to help keep the fish hot.
- Spoon the sauce over the fish just before serving for maximum flavor.
Recipe Variations
Parmesan Cod Strips
Mix ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese into the flour for a savory crust.
Herb Butter Version
Add fresh dill, thyme, or chives to the garlic butter sauce.
Spicy Garlic Cod
Increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Gluten-Free Option
Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or fine cornmeal.
Oven-Baked Version
Place the coated cod strips on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 12–15 minutes, then drizzle with the garlic butter sauce before serving.
Storage Instructions
Allow leftovers to cool completely.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a small amount of butter to keep the fish moist. You can also reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10 minutes.
Freezing is possible, but freshly cooked cod offers the best texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen cod?
Yes. Thaw it completely in the refrigerator and pat it dry before seasoning and cooking.
Can I substitute another fish?
Absolutely. Haddock, pollock, halibut, tilapia, or mahi-mahi all work well with this recipe.
Why is my cod falling apart?
Cod is naturally delicate. Turn the strips gently with a thin spatula or tongs, and avoid moving them until a crust has formed.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes. Replace the butter with a plant-based butter alternative or use additional olive oil.
What sauce pairs well with this dish?
Tartar sauce, garlic aioli, lemon dill sauce, or a simple yogurt-herb sauce all complement the flavors of the cod.
Nutrition Information (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 355
- Protein: 34 g
- Total Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugars: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg
- Sodium: 540 mg
- Potassium: 690 mg
- Calcium: 35 mg
- Iron: 1.5 mg
- Vitamin A: 8% DV
- Vitamin C: 6% DV
