Air Fryer Cod with Garlic Butter Delightful Recipe

October 28, 2025January 7, 2025 by Lily

If you’re looking for a quick, tasty meal, you’re in the right place! This Air Fryer Cod with Garlic Butter recipe makes fish cooking easy and fun. Imagine tender cod coated in rich garlic butter, all done in your air fryer! You’ll impress family and friends with a dish that’s delicious and simple. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps for this delightful recipe!

Why I Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavorful Garlic Butter: The combination of garlic, butter, and lemon zest creates a deliciously rich sauce that elevates the cod.
Healthier Cooking Method: Using the air fryer allows for a crispy texture without the need for excess oil, making it a healthier option.
Versatile Pairings: Serve it with a variety of sides like roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Ingredients

Required Ingredients

– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)

– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

– 4 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 teaspoon lemon zest

– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

– 1 teaspoon paprika

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Lemon wedges for serving

To make this dish, you need fresh cod fillets. They should be about 6 ounces each. You’ll also need unsalted butter, which you will melt for the garlic butter sauce. Minced garlic adds great flavor. Lemon zest brightens the dish, while fresh parsley gives it color. Paprika adds a nice touch and pairs well with the fish. Don’t forget salt and pepper to season your cod.

Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor

– Capers

– Red pepper flakes

– Fresh dill or thyme

You can add capers for a briny taste. Red pepper flakes give a spicy kick. Fresh dill or thyme can add a nice herbal note. Feel free to mix and match these ingredients based on your taste.

Ingredient Substitutions

– Cod fillets can be replaced with haddock or tilapia.

– Use olive oil instead of butter for a lighter version.

– If you don’t have fresh parsley, dried parsley works too.

If you can’t find cod, try haddock or tilapia for a similar texture. You can also swap out butter for olive oil. This can make the dish healthier. If fresh parsley is not available, dried parsley can still add flavor, though fresh is best.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation of Cod Fillets

First, you need to pat the cod fillets dry. Use a paper towel for this task. Drying helps the fish get crispy. Place the fillets on a clean plate. Make sure they are not stacked. This will keep them intact while cooking.

Making the Garlic Butter Mixture

Next, grab a small bowl. Combine melted butter with minced garlic. Add the lemon zest for a fresh kick. Then, toss in chopped parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is well blended. This garlic butter will add amazing flavor to the fish.

Cooking Process in the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Let it warm up for about 5 minutes. While it heats, brush both sides of the cod fillets with garlic butter. Save some for later. Place the fillets in the air fryer basket. Make sure there is space between them. Cook for 10-12 minutes. Check them at the 8-minute mark. The fish is done when it flakes easily. Carefully take the cod out and drizzle with the reserved garlic butter. Serve with lemon wedges on the side. Enjoy your tasty air fryer cod!

Tips & Tricks

Achieving the Perfect Crispy Texture

To get that great crispy skin on your cod, start by patting the fillets dry. Use a paper towel to absorb any moisture. This step is key. Next, brush the cod with the garlic butter mixture. This will help the fish crisp up nicely. Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Give each fillet space to circulate hot air. This ensures an even cook and perfect crisp.

Adjusting Cooking Times for Different Thicknesses

Cooking times depend on the thickness of your cod fillets. For fillets about 6 oz, cook for 10-12 minutes at 400°F (200°C). If your fillets are thicker, add a minute or two. Always check at the 8-minute mark. You want the fish to flake easily with a fork. This means it’s cooked just right. If you overcook it, the fish can dry out quickly.

Best Practices for Flavor Enhancement

To boost the flavor of your cod, don’t skip the garlic butter mixture. The blend of garlic, lemon zest, and herbs packs a punch. If you want more zing, add extra lemon zest or a splash of lemon juice. Fresh herbs like dill or cilantro can also elevate the dish. For a smoky taste, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika instead of regular paprika. Always reserve some garlic butter for drizzling after cooking. This adds an extra layer of flavor and keeps the dish moist.

Pro Tips

Ensure Freshness: Always use fresh cod fillets for the best flavor and texture. Frozen fillets can work, but make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.
Perfect Butter Blend: For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture for a subtle kick.
Keep it Crisp: Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Cooking in batches ensures even cooking and a delightful crispiness.
Check for Doneness: Use a fork to test for flakiness at the 10-minute mark. Cod is perfectly cooked when it flakes easily and is opaque throughout.

Variations

Alternative Seasonings and Herbs

You can change the flavors of your air fryer cod easily. Try using dill, thyme, or even oregano. These herbs pair well with fish. For a spicy kick, add cayenne pepper. You can also mix in some lemon pepper for a zesty touch. Experiment with different seasonings to find what you like best.

Cooking Cod with Different Sauces

Sauces can change the taste of your dish. Instead of garlic butter, try a honey mustard glaze. Just mix honey and mustard for a sweet and tangy flavor. You could also use a creamy dill sauce. It adds a rich taste. A squeeze of lime can give a fresh twist. Think about what flavors excite your taste buds.

Serving Ideas with Side Dishes

Pair your cod with tasty sides for a complete meal. Roasted vegetables, like carrots and zucchini, make a great choice. You can also serve it with a simple salad. Quinoa or rice adds good texture and fills you up. Consider mashed potatoes for a comforting option. Each side can enhance your meal and make it more enjoyable.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers Properly

After enjoying your air fryer cod, store leftovers in a good way. First, let the cod cool down to room temperature. Then, place the fillets in an airtight container. Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking. This helps keep the fish fresh. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions

When you’re ready to eat the leftovers, reheat them to keep the flavor. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the cod fillets in the basket. Heat for about 5-7 minutes. Check if it’s warm throughout. The fish should be flaky and not dry. If you want, add a little garlic butter on top to boost the taste.

Freezing Air Fryer Cod

If you have extra cod, freezing is a great option. Wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag. Label the bag with the date. You can freeze the cod for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to cook, thaw the fillets in the fridge overnight. This keeps the texture nice when you reheat them.

FAQs

How long does it take to cook cod in an air fryer?

It takes about 10 to 12 minutes to cook cod in an air fryer. At 400°F, the fish cooks quickly and evenly. Check it at the 8-minute mark. This helps ensure it does not overcook. When done, the cod should flake easily with a fork. This quick cooking time makes air frying a great choice for busy days.

Can I use frozen cod fillets?

Yes, you can use frozen cod fillets! Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. It’s best to thaw them first for even cooking. If you cook them straight from frozen, check for doneness at 12 to 15 minutes. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 145°F to be safe.

What can I serve with air fryer cod?

Air fryer cod pairs well with many sides. Here are some great options:

– Steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus

– A fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette

– Quinoa or rice for a hearty meal

– Garlic mashed potatoes for comfort food

– Crusty bread to soak up extra garlic butter

These sides complement the cod’s flavors nicely. Enjoy mixing and matching to find your favorite combo!

In this blog post, we covered all aspects of cooking cod in an air fryer. We explored required and optional ingredients, including substitutions to suit your taste. You learned step-by-step instructions for preparation, making garlic butter, and cooking. Tips for a crispy texture and flavor enhancements were shared. We also discussed variations, storage info, and addressed common questions about cooking cod.

Try these methods to enjoy perfect air-fried cod every time. Cooking can be fun and tast

$- 4 cod fillets (6 oz each) - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon lemon zest - 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped - 1 teaspoon paprika - Salt and pepper to taste - Lemon wedges for serving To make this dish, you need fresh cod fillets. They should be about 6 ounces each. You'll also need unsalted butter, which you will melt for the garlic butter sauce. Minced garlic adds great flavor. Lemon zest brightens the dish, while fresh parsley gives it color. Paprika adds a nice touch and pairs well with the fish. Don't forget salt and pepper to season your cod. - Capers - Red pepper flakes - Fresh dill or thyme You can add capers for a briny taste. Red pepper flakes give a spicy kick. Fresh dill or thyme can add a nice herbal note. Feel free to mix and match these ingredients based on your taste. - Cod fillets can be replaced with haddock or tilapia. - Use olive oil instead of butter for a lighter version. - If you don't have fresh parsley, dried parsley works too. If you can't find cod, try haddock or tilapia for a similar texture. You can also swap out butter for olive oil. This can make the dish healthier. If fresh parsley is not available, dried parsley can still add flavor, though fresh is best. {{ingredient_image_1}} First, you need to pat the cod fillets dry. Use a paper towel for this task. Drying helps the fish get crispy. Place the fillets on a clean plate. Make sure they are not stacked. This will keep them intact while cooking. Next, grab a small bowl. Combine melted butter with minced garlic. Add the lemon zest for a fresh kick. Then, toss in chopped parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is well blended. This garlic butter will add amazing flavor to the fish. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Let it warm up for about 5 minutes. While it heats, brush both sides of the cod fillets with garlic butter. Save some for later. Place the fillets in the air fryer basket. Make sure there is space between them. Cook for 10-12 minutes. Check them at the 8-minute mark. The fish is done when it flakes easily. Carefully take the cod out and drizzle with the reserved garlic butter. Serve with lemon wedges on the side. Enjoy your tasty air fryer cod! To get that great crispy skin on your cod, start by patting the fillets dry. Use a paper towel to absorb any moisture. This step is key. Next, brush the cod with the garlic butter mixture. This will help the fish crisp up nicely. Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Give each fillet space to circulate hot air. This ensures an even cook and perfect crisp. Cooking times depend on the thickness of your cod fillets. For fillets about 6 oz, cook for 10-12 minutes at 400°F (200°C). If your fillets are thicker, add a minute or two. Always check at the 8-minute mark. You want the fish to flake easily with a fork. This means it’s cooked just right. If you overcook it, the fish can dry out quickly. To boost the flavor of your cod, don’t skip the garlic butter mixture. The blend of garlic, lemon zest, and herbs packs a punch. If you want more zing, add extra lemon zest or a splash of lemon juice. Fresh herbs like dill or cilantro can also elevate the dish. For a smoky taste, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika instead of regular paprika. Always reserve some garlic butter for drizzling after cooking. This adds an extra layer of flavor and keeps the dish moist. Pro Tips Ensure Freshness: Always use fresh cod fillets for the best flavor and texture. Frozen fillets can work, but make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking. Perfect Butter Blend: For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture for a subtle kick. Keep it Crisp: Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Cooking in batches ensures even cooking and a delightful crispiness. Check for Doneness: Use a fork to test for flakiness at the 10-minute mark. Cod is perfectly cooked when it flakes easily and is opaque throughout. {{image_2}} You can change the flavors of your air fryer cod easily. Try using dill, thyme, or even oregano. These herbs pair well with fish. For a spicy kick, add cayenne pepper. You can also mix in some lemon pepper for a zesty touch. Experiment with different seasonings to find what you like best. Sauces can change the taste of your dish. Instead of garlic butter, try a honey mustard glaze. Just mix honey and mustard for a sweet and tangy flavor. You could also use a creamy dill sauce. It adds a rich taste. A squeeze of lime can give a fresh twist. Think about what flavors excite your taste buds. Pair your cod with tasty sides for a complete meal. Roasted vegetables, like carrots and zucchini, make a great choice. You can also serve it with a simple salad. Quinoa or rice adds good texture and fills you up. Consider mashed potatoes for a comforting option. Each side can enhance your meal and make it more enjoyable. After enjoying your air fryer cod, store leftovers in a good way. First, let the cod cool down to room temperature. Then, place the fillets in an airtight container. Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking. This helps keep the fish fresh. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat the leftovers, reheat them to keep the flavor. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the cod fillets in the basket. Heat for about 5-7 minutes. Check if it's warm throughout. The fish should be flaky and not dry. If you want, add a little garlic butter on top to boost the taste. If you have extra cod, freezing is a great option. Wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag. Label the bag with the date. You can freeze the cod for up to 2 months. When you're ready to cook, thaw the fillets in the fridge overnight. This keeps the texture nice when you reheat them. It takes about 10 to 12 minutes to cook cod in an air fryer. At 400°F, the fish cooks quickly and evenly. Check it at the 8-minute mark. This helps ensure it does not overcook. When done, the cod should flake easily with a fork. This quick cooking time makes air frying a great choice for busy days. Yes, you can use frozen cod fillets! Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. It’s best to thaw them first for even cooking. If you cook them straight from frozen, check for doneness at 12 to 15 minutes. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 145°F to be safe. Air fryer cod pairs well with many sides. Here are some great options: - Steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus - A fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette - Quinoa or rice for a hearty meal - Garlic mashed potatoes for comfort food - Crusty bread to soak up extra garlic butter These sides complement the cod's flavors nicely. Enjoy mixing and matching to find your favorite combo! In this blog post, we covered all aspects of cooking cod in an air fryer. We explored required and optional ingredients, including substitutions to suit your taste. You learned step-by-step instructions for preparation, making garlic butter, and cooking. Tips for a crispy texture and flavor enhancements were shared. We also discussed variations, storage info, and addressed common questions about cooking cod. Try these methods to enjoy perfect air-fried cod every time. Cooking can be fun and tasty!$