Description
This Parmesan Crusted Cod is a quick, flavorful seafood dish featuring tender cod filets topped with a golden, crispy Parmesan and panko breadcrumb crust, infused with fresh herbs and lemon zest. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a perfect healthy and elegant dinner option that’s easy to prepare and bakes to perfection in the oven.
Ingredients
For the Parmesan Crust
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley, plus more for serving
- ¾ teaspoon lemon zest
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons salted butter, melted
For the Fish
- 4 (5-ounce) cod filets
- Nonstick cooking spray (for baking dish)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly spray a large baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Parmesan topping: In a medium bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, minced garlic, chopped parsley, lemon zest, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Pour in the melted butter and mix thoroughly until the crumbs are evenly coated with the butter.
- Arrange the cod filets: Pat the cod filets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Place them in a single layer in the prepared baking dish, ensuring they have room and are spaced evenly.
- Apply the crust: Evenly sprinkle about ¼ cup of the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture over each cod filet. Press gently on the topping to help it adhere to the fish. Don’t worry if some crumbs fall to the bottom of the dish.
- Bake the cod: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Baking time depends on the thickness of your fish; the cod is done when the crust is golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve: Immediately serve the Parmesan crusted cod with fresh lemon wedges and additional chopped parsley if desired for a fresh, zesty finish.
Notes
- Patting the cod dry before applying the crust helps the topping stick better and ensures a crispy crust.
- Use fresh parsley and lemon zest for the best flavor impact in the crust.
- If you prefer, substitute salted butter with unsalted and adjust salt accordingly.
- Monitor baking time carefully; overcooking can cause the fish to become dry.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of panko.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
