I still remember the moment I slid the cod into the hot pan and heard that satisfying sizzle—it instantly felt like I was making something special. When I finished this Golden Seared Cod with Herb Butter Sauce Recipe, I was honestly surprised by how restaurant-worthy it tasted.

The fish turned out flaky and tender, and that butter tied everything together beautifully. I’ve made it a few times now, and it never fails to impress without stressing me out. If you enjoy simple seafood recipes that feel elegant but are easy enough for weeknights, this one is truly worth trying. You can also enjoy similar simple chicken dishes like Easy Black Pepper Chicken Recipe or Easy Chicken Teriyaki with Marinade Recipe for more weeknight options.

Golden Seared Cod with Herb Butter Sauce Recipe

Ingredients

Here’s everything I used, along with small tips that made a big difference in flavor and texture.

Cod fillets – 4 pieces (about 6 oz each): Fresh cod is ideal because it stays firm and flakes beautifully; if using frozen, thaw completely and pat very dry to avoid excess moisture.
Salt – 1 teaspoon: Enhances the natural sweetness of the cod without overpowering its delicate flavor.
Black pepper – ½ teaspoon: Freshly ground pepper adds mild heat and depth, balancing the richness of the butter sauce.
All-purpose flour – ¼ cup: A light coating helps create a golden, crispy crust while keeping the fish tender inside.
Olive oil – 2 tablespoons: Used for searing due to its higher smoke point, preventing the butter from burning too quickly.
Unsalted butter – 4 tablespoons: Allows better control of salt levels while creating a smooth, rich herb sauce.
Garlic – 3 cloves, minced: Fresh garlic provides a bold, aromatic flavor; avoid pre-minced garlic for best results.
Fresh parsley – 2 tablespoons, finely chopped: Adds freshness, color, and a light herbal note that brightens the dish.
Fresh thyme – 1 teaspoon, chopped: Complements the fish with subtle earthy flavors that pair well with butter.
Lemon juice – 1 tablespoon: Adds acidity to cut through the richness of the butter and enhance overall balance.

Note: This ingredient quantity serves 4 people comfortably.

Variations

This recipe is flexible, which makes it even more appealing.

For a dairy-free version, replace butter with plant-based butter or extra olive oil.
If you want more flavor, add capers or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
For a richer herb profile, try mixing in dill or chives along with parsley.
If cod isn’t available, haddock or halibut work well with the same method.

Cooking Time

This dish comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy days.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Equipment You Need

Large skillet – for evenly searing the cod fillets
Fish spatula – helps flip delicate fish without breaking
Small bowl – for holding herbs and seasoning
Paper towels – to dry the fish for better searing

How to Make Golden Seared Cod with Herb Butter Sauce Recipe?

This recipe follows a simple flow that keeps the fish tender and the sauce flavorful.

Prepare the Cod

Start by patting the cod fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step helps achieve a golden crust. Season both sides with salt and pepper, then lightly coat with flour, shaking off any excess.

Sear the Fish

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Place the cod gently into the pan and let it cook undisturbed for about 3–4 minutes per side. The fish should be golden outside and flaky inside.

Make the Herb Butter Sauce

Lower the heat and add butter to the same pan once the cod is removed. Stir in garlic and cook briefly until fragrant, then add lemon juice and herbs. Let the sauce bubble gently for a minute to combine flavors.

Combine and Serve

Return the cod to the skillet and spoon the warm herb butter sauce over the fillets. Let everything warm together for a minute before turning off the heat. Serve immediately while the fish is at its best.

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

After making this recipe multiple times, I picked up a few helpful tricks that really elevate it.

I always dry the fish thoroughly, which makes a noticeable difference in crispiness.
I use fresh herbs instead of dried because they give the sauce a brighter flavor.
I don’t overcrowd the pan, as it helps the fish sear instead of steam.
I finish with a little extra lemon zest when I want a fresher taste.

How to Serve Golden Seared Cod with Herb Butter Sauce Recipe?

This dish looks beautiful with minimal effort, which I really enjoy.

Serve it over creamy mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered pasta to soak up the sauce.
Pair it with roasted asparagus, green beans, or a light salad for balance.
Garnish with extra chopped parsley and thin lemon slices for a fresh, elegant finish.

Nutritional Information

This recipe is indulgent yet balanced, especially for a seafood dish.

Calories: Approximately 320 per serving
Protein: About 30g, making it filling and satisfying
Carbohydrates: Roughly 6g, mostly from flour
Fat: Around 20g, mainly from healthy fats and butter

Make Ahead and Storage

This dish is best fresh, but it can still be managed ahead of time.

Make Ahead:
I recommend prepping the herbs and seasoning the fish in advance. Store them separately in the fridge for up to 12 hours before cooking.

Storage:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the sauce with the fish to prevent drying out.

Reheating:
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or butter. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the fish rubbery.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

There are so many reasons this dish has become a favorite in my kitchen.

This recipe stands out because it’s simple yet elegant, perfect for both weeknights and guests.
It uses basic ingredients while delivering rich, restaurant-style flavor.
The cooking process is quick, making it ideal when I want something impressive without much effort.
It’s versatile and works with different herbs, sides, and dietary preferences.

Ash Tyrrell