Description
This Parmesan Crusted Cod recipe offers a quick and easy way to enjoy tender, flaky cod with a crispy, cheesy crust. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, it combines fresh cod fillets with a savory Parmesan and breadcrumb coating, baked to golden perfection. Healthy, family-friendly, and versatile, this dish can be customized with herbs, spices, and alternative ingredients to suit your taste and dietary needs.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 4 fresh cod fillets (firm, skinless, about 6 oz each)
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp lemon zest (freshly grated)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter (for brushing)
Instructions
- Prepare the Coating: In a shallow bowl, combine grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until evenly blended, creating a uniform coating mixture ready to crisp up beautifully.
- Coat the Cod Fillets: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to ensure the coating sticks well. Lightly brush each fillet with olive oil or melted butter, then press them firmly into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, coating each side evenly.
- Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Bake the Cod: Place the coated cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet and bake for about 12 to 15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve Warm: Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the crust to settle and the flavors to intensify.
Notes
- Freshness Matters: Use the freshest cod you can source for the best texture and taste.
- Dry Fillets: Pat dry your fish completely before coating to ensure a crispy crust.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Give your fillets space on the baking sheet for even cooking and browning.
- Use Panko: Panko breadcrumbs make the crust lighter and crunchier than regular breadcrumbs.
- Warm Oven: Baking at a high temperature helps the crust crisp up without drying out the fish.
- Make Ahead: The Parmesan breadcrumb mixture can be prepared a day ahead and stored in an airtight container.
- Reheating: Reheat leftovers in a 350°F (175°C) oven to restore crispiness; avoid microwaving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet (about 6 oz)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 0.5 g
- Sodium: 420 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg