Baked Parmesan Crusted Cod
This Baked Parmesan Crusted Cod is an easy weeknight meal that’s ready in 25 minutes. Cod filets are coated with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and seasonings, and then baked until golden and flaky. It’s tender, flavorful, and perfect for the whole family!
You’ll also adore this Parmesan Basil Shrimp and Rice, Garlic Lemon Tilapia, and Teriyaki Shrimp Stir Fry!
If you’re in need of a healthy meal for busy weeknights, then I’ve got the best parmesan cod recipe for you.
Not only is this easy recipe made with just a few ingredients, but it’s a breeze to prepare and comes out perfect every time. In fact, this simple cod recipe tastes like it came from a restaurant, it’s just that good!
And that’s saying a lot because cod is usually a bland, mild white fish…but with a lot of seasonings and a crunchy topping, it makes this seafood recipe extra delicious.
And if you’re looking for more easy fish recipes, you might like this herb crusted salmon, smoked salmon frittata, and maple soy glazed salmon.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Simple Ingredients with Big Flavor: just a handful of pantry staples and some fresh filets are all you need to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor.
- Quick and Easy: Just five minutes of prep time and about 20 minutes in the oven is all it takes for this parmesan-crusted cod recipe.
- Light and Healthier: Unlike heavy fried fish, this baked version keeps it on the lighter side, without sacrificing flavor. The breadcrumbs and Parmesan mixture create a crispy crust that turns golden brown, while the fish remains tender and flaky.
- Customizable: You can customize this fresh fish to your liking, such as adding or swapping additional seasonings or flavors. The possibilities are endless!
Ingredients:
- Cod: I used cod filets that were roughly 5 ounces in size.
- Eggs: The eggs will allow the breadcrumb mixture to stick to each cod filet.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko gives the fish the crispiest texture, more so than regular breadcrumbs.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan (freshly grated, if possible) pairs well with the seasonings.
- Seasonings: Garlic powder, smoked paprika (or regular), salt, and black pepper to give the cod some flavor.
How to Make:
- Prepare: Preheat the oven and line a baking pan with parchment paper. Pat each filet dry with a paper towel.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a small bowl, add the eggs and beat lightly. In another shallow dish, stir the breadcrumbs, cheese, and seasonings together.
- Assemble: Dip the fish fillets in the egg mixture and then into the panko breadcrumb mixture, coating all sides. Place onto your sheet pan.
- Bake: Place into the oven and bake for 14-18 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
How Do You Know When Baked Fish is Done?
The most accurate way is to use a meat thermometer. The cod should reach an internal temperature of 145℉. I also like to check for flakiness to see if fish is done. If the cod flakes easily with a fork, it’s tender and most likely cooked through.
Why is My Baked Cod Rubbery?
It’s possible that you overcooked the fish. When this happens, cod will lose its texture and turn dry and rubbery. For best results, keep an eye on the oven time so that you don’t overcook the fish.
How to Store:
Place leftover cod into an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. This type of fish is best eaten within this time frame, as it will lose its texture and flavor if stored longer.
- To reheat: place cod filets onto a baking pan and loosely tent with foil to prevent it from drying out. Bake at 350℉ for 10-12 minutes, or until heated through.
- Alternatively, you can reheat in the air fryer at 350℉ for about 5 minutes, or warm in the microwave until heated through.
- To freeze: Wrap the leftover cod in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Place into a freezer-safe container or bag in the freezer for up to two months. When ready to serve, follow the reheating instructions above.
What to Serve with Cod:
This recipe pairs well with pasta, veggies, and more! Here are a few of my favorite sides:
- Creamy parmesan rice
- Roasted parmesan herb sweet potatoes
- Baked ranch mushrooms
- Garlic parmesan potatoes
- Corn souffle
- Baked cheesy cauliflower
Tips for Making the Best Baked Cod:
- Use Parchment Paper: Line your baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal of the fish once it’s cooked.
- Pat the Cod Filets Dry: Use paper towels to blot the moisture from the cod before dipping into the eggs. This will help the crust stick better and prevent the flaky fish from becoming soggy once baked.
- Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: If possible, grate your own Parmesan cheese. This will give the fish the best flavor and help the crust turn crisp.
- Add Some Lemon Zest: A few sprinkles of lemon zest or even lemon juice squeezed on top of the fish after cooking will give it an extra burst of flavor.
- Watch the Oven Time: Cod cooks quickly, especially depending on the thickness, and all ovens vary, so keep be careful not to overcook, as this will dry out the fish. I like to use a meat thermometer for accurateness.
- Broil for Extra Crispiness: If you want an extra crispy crust, broil the cod for 2-3 minutes after baking, just to get an extra crunch.
Looking for More Seafood Recipes? I’ve Got You Covered!
- Honey Garlic Salmon Quinoa Bowl
- Tuna Skillet Casserole
- Sheet Pan Garlic Herb Salmon
- Air Fryer Brown Sugar Glazed Salmon
- Cilantro Lime Popcorn Shrimp Tacos
- Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon
Baked Parmesan Crusted Cod
Ingredients
- 4 (4-5 ounce) cod filets
- 2 eggs, (lightly beaten)
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400℉. Line a large baking pan with parchment paper. Pat each filet dry with a paper towel.
- In a shallow dish, add eggs. In another shallow dish, add breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Dip each filet in the egg mixture to fully coat and then dip into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring all sides are coated. Place filets onto prepared pan.
- Bake for 14-18 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the cod reaches 145℉ and flakes easily with a fork. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Leftovers will keep in an airtight container in the refridgerator for up to two days.
- See my tips and tricks for making this Baked Parmesan Crusted Cod above the recipe box.
