Garlic Butter Miso Cod Fillets – Easy, Flavorful, and Ready in Minutes

If you love delicate fish that melts in your mouth, these Garlic Butter Miso Cod Fillets are about to become a weeknight favorite. I first made this dish on a busy evening when I needed something fast but still comforting, and the result was so good it became part of my regular rotation. The savory miso, rich butter, and garlic come together to create a luxurious glaze that tastes like something from a high-end restaurant. This easy homemade miso cod recipe is simple, rewarding, and perfect for anyone who loves bold, umami-packed flavors.

Ingredients

4 cod fillets (about 5–6 oz each)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1 tablespoon white miso paste
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
tablespoon lemon juice
tablespoon soy sauce
teaspoon grated fresh ginger
½ teaspoon black pepper
Lemon wedges, for serving
Fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to help the glaze adhere.
In a bowl, mix the softened butter, miso paste, minced garlic, soy sauce, lemon juice, grated ginger, and black pepper until smooth.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Place the cod fillets into the pan and cook for 3–4 minutes, until the bottoms are lightly golden.
Flip the fillets gently and reduce heat to low.
Spoon the garlic butter miso mixture over the fillets, spreading it across the tops.
Cover the pan with a lid and cook for another 4–5 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Once done, spoon any extra glaze from the pan over the fish before serving.
Serve warm with lemon wedges and your choice of garnish.

Tips & Variations

1. Swap the Cod

If you can’t find cod, this recipe works beautifully with haddock, tilapia, sea bass, or salmon. The miso butter glaze enhances any mild white fish.

2. Make It Spicy

Add ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes or a small pinch of chili paste to the miso mixture for a gentle heat that complements the rich flavors.

3. Add Veggies to the Pan

You can sauté baby spinach, zucchini slices, or thin asparagus spears in the same pan to make it a complete one-pan meal.

Storing & Reheating

Fridge:
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Freezer:
Let the cod cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating:

Warm gently in a covered pan over low heat for 4–5 minutes.
Alternatively, heat in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 8–10 minutes.
Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can dry out the fish.

FAQs

Can I make it ahead?

Yes! Mix the garlic butter miso paste up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the fridge. Apply it to the fish right before cooking.

Can I bake instead of pan-sear?

Absolutely. Bake the cod at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, spreading the miso butter on top before baking.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes—simply use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.

What can I serve with miso cod?

Steamed rice, roasted vegetables, quinoa, or sautéed greens pair wonderfully with these flavors.

How do I know the fish is fully cooked?

Cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork and turns opaque throughout.

Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)

Calories: ~285
Protein: ~28g
Carbohydrates: ~5g
Fat: ~17g

These Garlic Butter Miso Cod Fillets are the perfect mix of simplicity and restaurant-quality flavor. If you’re looking for an easy homemade cod recipe that impresses every time, this one is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
If you try it, leave a comment below—I’d love to hear what you think! Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends or explore more quick, flavor-packed seafood dishes on the blog.