Garlic Butter Cod Bites with Creamy Lemon Herb Dip

Lora Lopez

Posted on June 13, 2025

Garlic Butter Cod Bites with Creamy Lemon Herb Dip

If you’re on the hunt for a delicious and easy seafood recipe that can impress your guests or simply satisfy your cravings, look no further than these Garlic Butter Cod Bites with Creamy Lemon Herb Dip. Bursting with flavor, these tender cod bites are coated in a rich garlic butter sauce and paired with a zesty, creamy dip that elevates each bite to a new level of deliciousness. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a light meal, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your home cooking repertoire.

Not only is this dish quick to prepare, but it also brings the flavors of the sea right to your dinner table. The combination of garlic and butter gives the cod an irresistible aroma and taste, while the creamy lemon herb dip adds a refreshing contrast. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, these garlic butter cod bites are sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One of the standout features of this Garlic Butter Cod Bites with Creamy Lemon Herb Dip recipe is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that looks and tastes gourmet. The use of cod, a mild and flaky fish, makes it accessible for even the pickiest of eaters. Here are a few reasons why you’ll fall in love with this recipe:

Quick Preparation: With a preparation and cooking time of just 20 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining.
Flavorful and Satisfying: The rich garlic butter sauce combined with the freshness of the lemon herb dip creates a delightful flavor profile that’s hard to resist.
Healthy Choice: Cod is low in calories and rich in protein, making these bites a nutritious option without sacrificing taste.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve them as an appetizer, main course, or even as part of a seafood platter.
Kid-Friendly: This dish is a great way to introduce kids to seafood, as the flavors are mild and appealing.

Additionally, the creamy lemon herb dip adds a delightful tang that complements the richness of the garlic butter cod bites. This dip can also be used for other dishes like veggies or chips, making it a versatile addition to your appetizers.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

This recipe is more than just a quick meal; it’s an experience that brings people together. The Garlic Butter Cod Bites with Creamy Lemon Herb Dip not only tantalizes your taste buds but also nourishes the soul. Here’s why you should add this dish to your cooking lineup:

Impressive Presentation: These cod bites are not only delicious but also visually appealing. A sprinkle of fresh parsley and a few lemon wedges make for an inviting dish.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a fancy gathering, these cod bites fit the bill perfectly.
Easy Cleanup: With just one baking sheet needed, this recipe minimizes kitchen cleanup, allowing you to enjoy more time with your guests.
Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices in the butter mixture or the dip to suit your taste preferences.
Great for Meal Prep: Make a larger batch and store leftovers in the fridge for quick lunches throughout the week!

In short, this recipe is a delicious way to enjoy seafood without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s quick, easy, and full of flavor, making it a must-try dish for anyone looking for something special.

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils

To create these Garlic Butter Cod Bites with Creamy Lemon Herb Dip, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Cod Bites:

1 pound cod fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
1/4 cup butter, melted
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)
Lemon wedges, for serving

Ingredients for Creamy Lemon Herb Dip:

1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon dried dill
1 teaspoon fresh chives, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Recommended Tools and Utensils:

Mixing bowls
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Measuring cups and spoons
Sharp knife for cutting the cod
Spatula for tossing and serving

Having the right utensils will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Ensure your workspace is organized and ready for action!

Detailed Recipe Steps

Now that you have gathered all your ingredients and tools, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making these delicious Garlic Butter Cod Bites with Creamy Lemon Herb Dip.

For the Garlic Butter Cod Bites:

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, paprika, salt, black pepper, and chopped parsley. Mix well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
Coat the Cod Bites: Place the cut cod pieces into the bowl with the garlic butter mixture. Toss gently until all the cod pieces are evenly coated with the flavorful mixture.
Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the coated cod bites in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. This ensures even cooking and browning.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking!

For the Creamy Lemon Herb Dip:

Make the Dip: In a small bowl, mix together the sour cream, mayonnaise, lemon juice, lemon zest, dried dill, chopped chives, salt, and pepper until well combined. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste.
Serve: Once the cod bites are cooked, remove them from the oven. Serve hot with the creamy lemon herb dip on the side. Garnish with additional parsley and lemon wedges for that perfect finish.

Pro Tip: For an extra touch, you can grill the cod bites for a smoky flavor or add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for a bit of heat.

FAQs

What type of fish is best for cod bites?

Cod is an excellent choice for this recipe due to its mild flavor and flaky texture. Other white fish such as haddock or pollock can also work well if you prefer.

Can I make the dip ahead of time?

Absolutely! The creamy lemon herb dip can be prepared a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and give it a quick stir before serving.

How do I store leftover cod bites?

Leftover cod bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven to maintain their crispy texture.

What can I serve with garlic butter cod bites?

These cod bites pair perfectly with a fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or crispy fries. The creamy lemon herb dip also complements a variety of appetizers!

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as it does not contain any wheat products. Always check your ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Garlic Butter Cod Bites with Creamy Lemon Herb Dip is a delightful dish that combines simplicity with gourmet flavors. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is not only quick to make but also sure to impress your family and friends. Don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments below and let us know how your cod bites turned out. Happy cooking!

For more delicious recipes, check out our other articles: Crispy Chicken Meatballs with Honey Mustard Dip and Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers with Creamy Garlic Dip.

Don’t forget to explore more culinary inspiration on Pinterest!