📖 Instructions

1. **Preheat Your Oven to Perfection (200°C/400°F):** First things first, get your oven nice and hot. This high heat is key to getting that lovely, slightly crisp exterior while keeping the inside beautifully tender. Place an oven rack in the middle position.
2. **Prepare Your Baking Vessel:** Grab a baking dish or a rimmed baking sheet. Line it with parchment paper for the easiest cleanup imaginable. Trust me, future you will thank present you for this step!
3. **Pat Those Cod Fillets DRY – Seriously, Do It!** This is a non-negotiable step for great fish. Take your cod fillets (fresh or thawed) and pat them *thoroughly* dry on both sides with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps the fish bake evenly and prevents it from steaming, ensuring a flaky texture rather than a rubbery one. This also helps any seasonings stick better. Seriously, don't skimp on this part!
4. **Season Like a Pro:** Arrange the dried cod fillets in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Now, sprinkle both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don't be shy here; fish needs good seasoning. You want to enhance its natural flavor, not overpower it.
5. **Melt the Butter & Infuse with Lemon:** In a small, microwave-safe bowl or a tiny saucepan, melt your unsalted butter. Once melted, stir in the fresh lemon juice, minced garlic (if using), and a pinch more salt and pepper if you like. This creates our magical lemon butter sauce that's going to bathe our cod in flavor.
6. **Brush for Brilliance:** Take about half of your lemon butter mixture and brush it evenly over the top of each cod fillet. Make sure every bit gets a good coating. This is where the flavor truly starts to penetrate.
7. **Bake Until Flaky Perfection (12-18 Minutes):** Carefully transfer the baking sheet to your preheated oven. Bake for approximately 12 to 18 minutes. The exact time depends on the thickness of your cod fillets. A good rule of thumb? Fish is done when it's opaque throughout and flakes easily with a fork at its thickest part. If you have an instant-read thermometer, aim for an internal temperature of 63°C (145°F). Keep an eye on it; overcooked fish is sad fish!
8. **A Final Zesty Touch:** Once the cod is perfectly cooked, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Drizzle the remaining lemon butter mixture over the hot fish. The warmth of the cod will absorb all that glorious flavor.
9. **Garnish and Serve Immediately:** For an extra flourish and a burst of freshness, sprinkle your baked cod with fresh chopped parsley or dill. A few extra lemon wedges on the side are also a fantastic idea for those who love an extra squeeze of citrus. Serve this delightful fish immediately with your favorite sides, like roasted vegetables, rice, or a crisp green salad. Enjoy your incredibly delicious and super easy meal!