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There is something truly magical about the elegant simplicity of the Baked Cod with Orange Beurre Blanc Recipe. This dish brings together tender, flaky cod fillets baked to perfection and dressed with a luscious, tangy-sweet orange beurre blanc sauce that sings with layers of bright citrus and buttery richness. Every bite is like a celebration of fresh, vibrant flavors combined with comforting textures, making it a standout meal for both special occasions and weeknight dinners that deserve a little extra love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Baked Cod with Orange Beurre Blanc Recipe lies in its straightforward yet impactful ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in building depth and balance—from the fresh orange zest that lifts the sauce, to the butter that brings velvety creaminess, and of course, the cod itself which offers delicate flavor and meaty texture.
- Cod fillets: Fresh, firm 6-ounce fillets provide the mild, flaky base of the dish.
- Salt and pepper: Simple seasoning that enhances the natural flavor of the fish.
- Olive oil: Used to sear the cod for a beautiful golden crust.
- Orange (zested and juiced): Adds bright citrus notes that balance the butter in the sauce.
- Dry white wine: Provides acidity and depth, helping to create a complex sauce.
- White wine vinegar: Brings a sharp tang to complement the sweetness of the orange.
- Shallot: Finely chopped for a subtle onion flavor that enhances the sauce.
- Heavy cream: Enriches the beurre blanc, making it luscious and smooth.
- Unsalted butter: Cubed and chilled to create that signature silky texture in the sauce.
- Fresh parsley or chives: For a bright, fresh garnish that adds a pop of color.
How to Make Baked Cod with Orange Beurre Blanc Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Cod
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Rinse the cod fillets and pat them dry to ensure the seasonings stick well. Season each fillet generously with salt and pepper, which primes them for developing flavor both on the stove and in the oven.
Step 2: Sear the Cod
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Gently place the seasoned cod fillets into the skillet and sear each side for about 2 minutes, just until they develop a delicate golden crust. This step locks in juices and adds a subtle texture contrast that’s so satisfying.
Step 3: Bake the Cod
Transfer the seared fillets to a baking dish and slide them into the oven. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. This gentle baking finishes cooking the fish evenly without drying it out, preserving that melt-in-your-mouth quality.
Step 4: Make the Orange Beurre Blanc Sauce
Using the same skillet, pour in the freshly squeezed orange juice and zest, the dry white wine, white wine vinegar, and finely chopped shallot. Allow this mixture to gently simmer and reduce by half, intensifying the flavors and creating a fragrant base for the sauce.
Step 5: Finish the Sauce
Stir in the heavy cream and simmer for another 1 to 2 minutes, which adds richness. Then, whisk in the chilled, cubed butter gradually, making sure the sauce becomes smooth, glossy, and beautifully emulsified. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and you’ve got a sauce that’s creamy, tangy, and perfectly balanced.
Step 6: Plate and Serve
Arrange the baked cod fillets on serving plates and generously drizzle with the vibrant orange beurre blanc sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives to add a fresh herbal note and a burst of color. Your Baked Cod with Orange Beurre Blanc Recipe is ready to impress!
How to Serve Baked Cod with Orange Beurre Blanc Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh green herbs like parsley or chives are ideal garnishes, lending a gentle earthy freshness that complements the citrusy richness of the sauce. You can also sprinkle a few orange zest shavings on top to brighten the dish visually and aromatically, inviting even more sensory delight.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with simple, elegant sides. Think buttery mashed potatoes, light herbed quinoa, or roasted asparagus. The mild, creamy starches and crisp vegetables balance the intense flavors of the sauce and ensure a harmonious plate every time.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, try serving the cod on a bed of wilted baby spinach or atop a delicate citrus-infused risotto. Drizzling a few scattered microgreens or edible flowers around the plate can elevate the visual charm, making your meal feel truly special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover baked cod and sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep the sauce separate if possible to maintain its texture, and gently reheat the fish to avoid overcooking.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for this recipe, as baked cod and beurre blanc sauce tend to lose quality when frozen. The delicate texture of the fish can suffer, and the sauce may break or separate upon thawing.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently over low heat on the stove or in a low oven to preserve the flaky texture of the cod and the smooth creaminess of the sauce. Avoid microwave reheating as it can cause uneven warming and toughen the fish.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cod fillets for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cod fillets, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before seasoning and cooking. This helps prevent excess moisture, ensuring a better sear and texture.
What if I don’t have white wine on hand?
If you prefer not to use white wine, substitute it with an equal amount of low-sodium chicken broth or a mild white grape juice mixed with a splash of white wine vinegar. This will keep the sauce flavorful and balanced.
Can I make the orange beurre blanc sauce in advance?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce a few hours ahead and keep it warm over very low heat. Just whisk gently before serving to re-emulsify and regain that beautiful shine.
Is there a way to make the sauce dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and use a plant-based butter alternative for a dairy-free version. Keep in mind, this will subtly change the flavor, but still yield a rich, delicious sauce.
How can I tell when the cod is perfectly cooked?
Perfectly cooked cod will flake easily when pressed gently with a fork and appear opaque throughout with a moist interior. Avoid overcooking to keep the texture tender and delicate.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Cod with Orange Beurre Blanc Recipe is a total crowd-pleaser that brings a burst of sophisticated flavor without complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients. It’s a heartfelt dish that makes both everyday dinners feel like a special occasion and guests beam with delight. I encourage you to try this recipe soon and enjoy the wonderful harmony of buttery, citrusy goodness alongside perfectly baked cod.
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Baked Cod with Orange Beurre Blanc Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Description
This Baked Cod with Orange Beurre Blanc is a sophisticated yet simple seafood dish featuring perfectly seared and baked cod fillets topped with a luscious, tangy orange beurre blanc sauce made from white wine, orange juice, and butter. Ideal for a special dinner or elegant weeknight meal, it combines delicate flavors and a velvety sauce to elevate the mild cod fish.
Ingredients
For the Cod
- 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Orange Beurre Blanc Sauce
- 1 orange (zested and juiced)
- 1 cup dry white wine
- 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
- 1 shallot, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cubed and chilled
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish
- Fresh parsley or chives
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper to enhance the natural flavors.
- Sear the Cod: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the cod fillets in the skillet and sear each side for about 2 minutes until they develop a light golden crust, which locks in moisture and adds flavor.
- Bake the Cod: Transfer the seared fillets to a baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily when tested with a fork, ensuring perfectly cooked and tender cod.
- Make the Orange Beurre Blanc: Using the same skillet, combine the orange juice, orange zest, dry white wine, white wine vinegar, and finely chopped shallots. Bring this mixture to a simmer and cook until reduced by half to concentrate the flavors.
- Finish the Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream and simmer for 1-2 minutes, then gradually whisk in the chilled butter cubes one at a time until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and glossy. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Plate the baked cod fillets and generously drizzle with the orange beurre blanc sauce. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a fresh, vibrant touch.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh cod fillets that are firm and translucent.
- Make sure the butter is cold when adding to the sauce to prevent it from breaking and to achieve a smooth texture.
- If white wine is unavailable, dry vermouth can be used as a substitute.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the sauce at its creamy best and the cod perfectly moist.
- This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables or light rice pilaf.
