Crispy Parmesan Crusted Baked Cod Recipe
This Crispy Parmesan Crusted Baked Cod recipe is an easy oven-baked fish dish featuring flaky cod fillets topped with a golden, crunchy Parmesan and panko breadcrumb crust. Baked at high heat, it delivers a perfect balance of moist, tender fish and a flavorful, crispy topping, making it an ideal healthy main course for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Scale
Fish and Crust
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz / 170g each)
- 1 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese (about 100g)
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (about 60g)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt to taste (about ½ teaspoon)
- Black pepper to taste (about ¼ teaspoon)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
For Serving
- Fresh lemon wedges
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the crust mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the finely grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper. Stir until evenly mixed to form the crispy crust topping.
- Prepare the cod fillets: Pat the cod fillets dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure the crust adheres properly and crisps up during baking. Brush each fillet with olive oil or melted butter on all sides to add flavor and aid browning.
- Apply the crust: Press the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the top side of each cod fillet, ensuring an even, thick layer of crust.
- Bake the cod: Place the crusted fillets crust side up on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets, until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the crust is golden brown and crispy.
- Optional broil for extra crispness: If desired, broil the fillets for 1 to 2 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning, to achieve an even crispier crust.
- Serve: Remove the cod from the oven and immediately squeeze fresh lemon juice over each fillet. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.
Notes
- Pat the fish dry before applying the crust to ensure it sticks and crisps well.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best crunch and flavor.
- Baking at high heat (425°F) is key to a crispy crust and moist fish.
- Press the crust firmly onto the fillets to help it adhere during baking.
- Watch the broiler carefully if using to prevent burning the crust.
- Allow fish to sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before baking for even cooking.
- Leftover crust mixture can be sprinkled on veggies or salads for extra flavor.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute panko with crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour.
- Butter can be used instead of olive oil for a richer flavor.
Keywords: baked cod, parmesan crusted fish, oven baked fish, crispy fish recipe, easy fish dinner, healthy fish recipe, parmesan crust, panko breadcrumbs
