There’s something so elegant and simple about a perfectly seared cod fillet.

This Pan-Seared Cod with Herb Butter is quick to make, packed with fresh herbs, and finished with a lemony butter sauce that turns a humble white fish into a dinner delight.

Why I Love This Recipe

Crisp golden crust with tender, flaky cod inside

Herb butter sauce adds bright, savory flavor

Takes less than 20 minutes from start to finish

Naturally low-carb and gluten-free

Pairs well with almost any side dish

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

Cod fillets: Mild, flaky, and perfect for pan searing

Olive oil: Helps achieve that golden crust

Butter + garlic: Base of the flavorful finishing sauce

Fresh herbs (parsley, dill, chives): Bright and aromatic

Lemon juice: Adds freshness and zing

Pro Tips Before You Start

Pat the cod very dry to get that nice crust

Don’t overcrowd the pan — sear in batches if needed

Use a fish spatula for easy flipping

Let the butter sauce sit a minute before pouring to let the flavors meld

How to Make Pan-Seared Cod with Herb Butter

Step 1: Prep the Fish
Pat cod fillets dry with paper towels.

Season both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Cod
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.

Carefully add the cod fillets, cooking undisturbed for about 4 minutes until the underside is golden brown.

Step 3: Flip and Finish Cooking
Gently flip each fillet and cook for another 3 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.

Transfer the cod to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm.

Step 4: Make the Herb Butter Sauce
Lower heat to medium. In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic.

Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 5: Add Fresh Herbs
Remove skillet from heat.

Stir in lemon juice, parsley, dill, and chives.

Step 6: Plate and Serve
Spoon the herb butter sauce over the cod fillets and serve immediately.

What to Serve It With

Roasted baby potatoes or mashed cauliflower

Steamed green beans or asparagus

Lemon rice or a quinoa salad

Crusty bread to soak up the sauce

Variations / Substitutions

Use halibut or haddock instead of cod

Swap dill for tarragon or basil

Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for extra depth

Storage & Leftovers

Store leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 2 days

Reheat gently in a covered skillet over low heat

Not recommended for freezing, as cod can become mushy

FAQs

Can I use frozen cod fillets?
Yes, just make sure they’re fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.

How do I know when the cod is done?
It should flake easily with a fork and be opaque in the center.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Fresh herbs are best, but you can use dried in a pinch — reduce the amount by half.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes! It’s naturally low in carbs.

Can I cook the cod in butter instead of olive oil?
Butter can burn at high heat, so stick with olive oil for searing and butter for the sauce.

What type of pan works best?
A nonstick or stainless steel skillet both work well. Just be sure it’s preheated properly.

Final Thoughts

This Pan-Seared Cod with Herb Butter is my go-to when I want something light but satisfying.

The crispy exterior, flaky texture, and fragrant butter sauce make it feel fancy — but it’s so simple and fast. A true seafood win!