Can I use frozen cod fillets?

Absolutely, as long as they’re fully thawed and patted dry. Extra moisture from frozen fish can make the crust a little softer, so dry thoroughly before baking.

What can I use instead of panko breadcrumbs?

Regular breadcrumbs are fine, but they’ll create a denser crust. For a gluten-free option, try crushed gluten-free crackers or even finely ground cornflakes for extra crunch.

Can I make the crumb topping ahead?

Yes! Prepare the Parmesan crumb mixture and store it in the fridge (in a sealed container) for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just assemble and proceed.

How do I know when the cod is done?

The cod is perfectly cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque all the way through. Err on the side of checking early—overcooked fish dries out quickly.

Parmesan Crusted Cod Recipe

Name: Parmesan Crusted Cod Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs; 2 garlic cloves, finely minced; 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley; 3/4 teaspoon lemon zest; 3/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 2 tablespoons salted butter, melted; 4 (5-ounce) cod filets; Fresh parsley, for garnish; Lemon wedges

Description

This Parmesan Crusted Cod recipe features tender, flaky cod filets topped with a savory mixture of Parmesan cheese, crispy panko breadcrumbs, fresh parsley, aromatic garlic, and a touch of lemon zest. Baked to golden perfection, it makes for a delicious, easy-to-make main course that’s ready in just 25 minutes, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Crust

1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 garlic cloves, finely minced
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
3/4 teaspoon lemon zest
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
2 tablespoons salted butter, melted

For the Fish

4 (5-ounce) cod filets

For Serving

Fresh parsley, for garnish
Lemon wedges

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Instructions

Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly spray a large baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Mix the Crust Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, finely minced garlic, chopped fresh parsley, lemon zest, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Add in the melted butter and mix thoroughly until the crumbs are evenly coated and slightly moist.
Prepare the Cod: Pat the cod filets dry with paper towels to help the crust adhere. Arrange the filets in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
Top with Crust: Sprinkle approximately 1/4 cup of the breadcrumb mixture over each cod filet, pressing gently so the topping sticks. It’s okay if some crumbs fall to the bottom of the pan.
Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the filets. The crust should turn golden brown and the fish should flake easily with a fork.
Serve: Serve the baked cod immediately, garnishing with extra parsley and lemon wedges for added freshness and flavor.

Notes

Try to use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for best flavor and texture.
Panko breadcrumbs provide extra crunch; substitute with regular breadcrumbs if needed.
Check the fish for doneness by inserting a fork; the fish should flake easily.
For added citrus flavor, squeeze lemon juice over the cod just before serving.
This recipe works well with other mild white fish such as haddock or tilapia.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 (5-ounce) cod filet
Calories: 275
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 780mg
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 36g
Cholesterol: 90mg