Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Baked Parmesan Crusted Cod Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4 from 41 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Baked Parmesan Crusted Cod is a flavorful and healthy main course featuring tender cod fillets topped with a crispy parmesan and panko breadcrumb crust. The combination of garlic, paprika, and fresh parsley adds aromatic depth, while baking ensures a light texture with a golden, crunchy crust. Perfect for a quick and elegant dinner, served with lemon wedges to brighten the flavors.


Ingredients

Fish:

  • 4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)

Crust:

  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

To Serve:

  • Lemon wedges


Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Prepare the cod fillets: Pat the cod dry using paper towels to remove excess moisture, then season both sides generously with salt and pepper to enhance the natural flavor of the fish.
  3. Make the Parmesan crust mixture: In a small bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, chopped fresh parsley, garlic powder, and paprika. Drizzle the olive oil over the dry ingredients and stir well to create a cohesive crumb mixture.
  4. Apply the crust: Press the prepared Parmesan mixture evenly on top of each cod fillet, ensuring a thick and uniform coating for a crispy, flavorful crust.
  5. Bake the cod: Arrange the crusted fillets on the prepared baking sheet with the crust side facing up. Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes until the fish flakes easily when tested with a fork and the crust turns golden brown and crisp.
  6. Optional broil for extra crispiness: For a crunchier topping, place the fillets under the broiler for 1 to 2 additional minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
  7. Serve immediately: Plate the cod fillets and garnish with fresh lemon wedges to squeeze over the fish before eating for a fresh, tangy finish.

Notes

  • For an even crispier crust, broil the cod for the last 1–2 minutes of baking, but watch closely to prevent burning.
  • This recipe is versatile and also works well with haddock or tilapia fillets.
  • Serve alongside roasted vegetables, fluffy rice, or a refreshing salad for a well-rounded meal.
  • To make this dish gluten-free, substitute panko with gluten-free breadcrumbs.