Irresistibly Crispy Parmesan Crusted Cod Recipe for Dinner

Crispy parmesan crusted cod takes traditional fish dishes to delightful new heights.

My kitchen experiments have revealed how simple ingredients can create restaurant-quality results.

Seafood lovers appreciate technique that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.

Delicate white fish meets crunchy cheese coating in this foolproof recipe.

Mediterranean coastal regions inspire such elegant yet uncomplicated preparations.

Weeknight dinners deserve something special that impresses without complicated steps.

You’ll want to bookmark this straightforward approach to making an irresistible meal that satisfies every time.

Why Parmesan Crusted Cod Tastes So Good

• Quick Weeknight Wonder: Whip up this delectable cod dish in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy families craving a delicious, hassle-free dinner that doesn't compromise on taste.
• Foolproof Cooking Technique: The simple oven-baking method ensures perfectly cooked fish every time, even for novice home cooks who want to impress without complicated culinary skills.
• Nutrition-Packed Protein Boost: Cod offers a lean, heart-healthy protein option that's low in calories and rich in essential nutrients, making it an excellent choice for health-conscious meal planners.
• Kid-Friendly Flavor Profile: The crispy parmesan crust adds a crowd-pleasing texture and mild flavor that appeals to both children and adults, transforming a potentially boring fish dinner into an exciting meal everyone will enjoy.

Everything You’ll Need For Parmesan Crusted Cod

• Cod: A mild, flaky white fish that serves as the star of this dish, perfect for those who enjoy delicate seafood flavors.

• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty crust with crispy texture; choose freshly grated for best results.
• Breadcrumbs: Provides a golden, crunchy exterior; panko breadcrumbs work best for extra crispiness.

• Garlic Powder: Brings a subtle, aromatic garlic flavor without raw garlic intensity.
• Dried Parsley: Adds a hint of herbaceous note and visual appeal to the coating.
• Salt: Enhances overall seasoning and helps draw out moisture from the fish.
• Black Pepper: Provides a mild heat and complexity to the dish's flavor profile.
• Olive Oil: Helps the coating adhere to the fish and promotes even browning.

How To Cook Parmesan Crusted Cod Simply

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Surface

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Take a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper or lightly coat with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Season the Cod Fillets

• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Dried Italian herbs
• Garlic powder
• Black pepper
• Salt

Step 3: Coat the Fish

Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Brush each fillet with a thin layer of mayonnaise or olive oil. This helps the cheese mixture stick perfectly.

Step 4: Create the Crispy Coating

Gently press each cod fillet into the Parmesan herb mixture, ensuring an even, generous coating on all sides. Make sure the fish is completely covered with the cheesy mixture.

Step 5: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Place the coated cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Space them slightly apart to allow even heat circulation.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The top should be golden brown and crispy.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Remove the cod from the oven and let it rest for 2-3 minutes. This helps the fish retain its moisture. Serve immediately with a wedge of lemon and your favorite side dishes.

Tips For Getting Parmesan Crusted Cod Just Right

• Elevate Fish Texture: Pat cod fillets completely dry with paper towels to ensure a crispy, golden parmesan crust that adheres perfectly.
• Customize Seasoning Blend: Mix dried herbs like thyme or oregano into the parmesan coating for an extra flavor dimension that complements the delicate fish.
• Prevent Overcooking: Use a digital meat thermometer to check internal fish temperature, aiming for 145°F to maintain tender, flaky cod without drying out.
• Accommodate Dietary Needs: Swap regular parmesan for dairy-free nutritional yeast or use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe friendly for various dietary restrictions.
• Boost Moisture Retention: Brush cod with a light layer of olive oil or melted butter before adding parmesan coating to help lock in natural fish juices and enhance overall taste.

Smart Storage For Parmesan Crusted Cod

• Refrigerate leftover cod in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Keep the fish sealed tightly to maintain its fresh flavor and prevent odors from spreading.
• Place the container in the coldest part of your refrigerator to preserve the fish's texture and quality.
• Reheat gently in the oven at 325F for 5-7 minutes to help maintain the crispy parmesan crust and prevent the fish from drying out.

Top Sides With Parmesan Crusted Cod

• Create Citrusy White Wine Pairing: Crisp sauvignon blanc perfectly complements the delicate cod, cutting through the rich parmesan with bright, zesty notes that enhance the fish's mild flavor.
• Serve with Roasted Mediterranean Vegetables: Colorful bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes roasted with olive oil and herbs provide a vibrant, nutritious side that matches the cod's golden crust beautifully.
• Craft Fresh Lemon Herb Sauce: Whip up a quick sauce with Greek yogurt, fresh dill, lemon zest, and a touch of garlic to drizzle over the cod, adding a tangy, creamy element that elevates the entire dish.
• Select Light Arugula Salad: Toss peppery arugula with shaved parmesan, toasted pine nuts, and a light lemon vinaigrette to create a crisp, refreshing accompaniment that balances the richness of the parmesan-crusted fish.

Try A New Spin On Parmesan Crusted Cod

• Mediterranean Herb Cod: Blend fresh chopped basil, oregano, and thyme into the parmesan coating for a vibrant Mediterranean flavor profile that brings coastal herbs right to your plate.
• Spicy Cajun Cod: Mix cayenne pepper, paprika, and garlic powder into the parmesan crust to create a zesty southern-style fish with a bold, warming kick that transforms the original recipe.
• Lemon Garlic Cod: Incorporate lemon zest and minced garlic directly into the parmesan mixture, adding bright citrus notes and aromatic depth to enhance the fish's natural sweetness.
• Almond Crusted Cod: Replace half the parmesan with finely ground almonds to introduce a nutty crunch and rich, toasted undertones that complement the delicate cod perfectly.

Helpful FAQs On Parmesan Crusted Cod

• Can I use a different type of fish for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute cod with other white fish like halibut, tilapia, or haddock. Just make sure the fish fillets are similar in thickness to ensure even cooking.

• How do I know if the cod is cooked properly?

The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and appears opaque white throughout. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.

• Is parmesan cheese essential for this recipe?

While parmesan adds great flavor and creates a crispy crust, you can use other hard cheeses like pecorino romano or asiago if needed. Just choose a cheese that melts well and provides a similar texture.

• Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour instead of traditional breadcrumbs. This will help maintain the crispy coating while keeping the dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Parmesan Crusted Cod Recipe

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4.6 from 36 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Parmesan crusted cod elevates simple seafood into a gourmet masterpiece with crispy golden coating and delicate fish beneath. Mediterranean flavors mingle with rich cheese, creating a restaurant-quality dish you can easily prepare at home.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces/170 grams each)
• ½ cup (50 grams) grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup (30 grams) breadcrumbs (panko or regular)

Seasoning Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried parsley (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Cooking Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven environment by positioning the rack in the center and heating to a precise 400F (200C), creating an optimal cooking zone for the delicate cod.
2. Protect the baking surface with a layer of parchment paper or apply a thin coating of oil to prevent sticking and ensure easy fish removal.
3. Pat the cod fillets completely dry using clean paper towels, removing excess moisture to help the parmesan coating adhere perfectly.
4. Season the fish generously with salt and pepper, ensuring an even distribution across the entire surface of each fillet.
5. Create a crisp coating mixture by combining grated parmesan, breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, and a hint of garlic powder in a shallow dish.
6. Gently press each seasoned cod fillet into the parmesan mixture, coating both sides thoroughly and pressing the mixture firmly to create a consistent, golden crust.
7. Transfer the crusted fillets to the prepared baking sheet, arranging them with slight spacing to allow even heat circulation.
8. Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the top of each fillet to enhance browning and add a subtle richness to the crust.
9. Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, monitoring until the fish turns opaque and the crust achieves a golden-brown, crispy texture.
10. Once cooked, remove from the oven and let the fillets rest for 2-3 minutes, allowing the juices to redistribute and the crust to set perfectly.
11. Garnish with fresh lemon wedges and additional chopped parsley before serving to add brightness and visual appeal.

Notes

• Choose fresh cod fillets with consistent thickness to ensure even cooking and crispy coating.
• Pat fish dry with paper towels before applying Parmesan mixture to help breading adhere perfectly and create a crunchier texture.
• Replace traditional breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers for celiac-friendly version.
• Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet to promote proper browning and prevent steaming, which can make the crust soggy.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 26g
• Cholesterol: 80mg