Parmesan Baked Cod

This Parmesan-Crusted Cod Fillets recipe is a quick and delicious way to enjoy a healthy and flavorful fish dish. The combination of Parmesan cheese, butter, and mayonnaise creates a rich, creamy topping that perfectly complements the mild flavor of cod. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special meal.

Ingredients

• 4 cod fillets
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup butter, softened
• 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/8 teaspoon celery salt

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly grease it.
2. In a small bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, softened butter, mayonnaise, lemon juice, dried basil, black pepper, onion powder, and celery salt. Mix until smooth and well combined.
3. Arrange the cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Evenly spread the Parmesan mixture over the top of each fillet.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4

Variations

• Herb Variation: Add fresh herbs such as parsley, dill, or thyme to the Parmesan mixture for a more aromatic flavor.
• Spicy Version: Spice things up by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the topping mixture.
• Cheese Swap: Substitute the Parmesan cheese with other cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
• Vegetarian Option: While this recipe uses cod, the Parmesan crust can also be applied to vegetables like zucchini or eggplant for a vegetarian alternative.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover Parmesan-crusted cod fillets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the fillets back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them for 1-2 minutes, but the crust may lose some of its crispiness.

10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use frozen cod fillets for this recipe? Yes, you can use frozen cod fillets. Make sure to thaw them completely before preparing the recipe.
2. What can I serve with Parmesan-crusted cod fillets? This dish pairs well with a variety of sides such as roasted vegetables, steamed broccoli, mashed potatoes, or a light salad.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? You can prepare the Parmesan topping ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to assemble and bake the cod fillets just before serving.
4. Can I use a different type of fish? Yes, you can substitute cod with other white fish such as tilapia, haddock, or pollock.
5. Can I use store-bought mayonnaise for this recipe? Yes, store-bought mayonnaise works perfectly in this recipe. You can also use homemade mayonnaise if preferred.
6. Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it does not contain any wheat or gluten-based ingredients.
7. How do I know when the cod is done baking? The cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
8. Can I make the Parmesan topping spicier? Yes, you can add more spice to the topping by including additional black pepper, cayenne pepper, or chili flakes.
9. Can I substitute the butter with a healthier option? Yes, you can use olive oil or a dairy-free butter substitute for a healthier or dairy-free option.
10. How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy? Make sure the fish fillets are well-drained before spreading the topping. Also, avoid overcooking the fish to prevent excess moisture.

Conclusion

This Parmesan-Crusted Cod Fillets recipe is an easy, flavorful, and satisfying meal that combines the richness of cheese with the mild flavor of cod. With minimal preparation and cook time, it’s perfect for busy evenings or special occasions. Plus, the ability to customize the recipe with different herbs and spices makes it a versatile option for various tastes.

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