Name: Parmesan Crusted Cod Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each); ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; ½ cup panko breadcrumbs; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional); 2 tablespoons olive oil; lemon wedges for serving

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If you’re craving an easy seafood dinner that’s equal parts elegant and comforting, look no further than Parmesan Crusted Cod. This irresistible dish features tender fillets of cod cloaked in a golden, cheesy crust that’s bursting with vibrant flavor. It’s a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or special occasions alike, and you’ll love how quickly everything comes together. With the perfect blend of crunch, zest, and savory goodness, Parmesan Crusted Cod is destined to become a staple at your table.

Parmesan Crusted Cod Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What I love most about this recipe is how every ingredient, while simple, brings its own magic to the final dish. From the flaky white fish to the crunchy breadcrumb-Parmesan topping, each element is essential for that crave-worthy bite. Here’s what you’ll need—and why each matters:

Cod fillets: These mild, flaky fillets are the perfect canvas for a crispy, flavorful crust.
Salt: Just a small amount enhances the natural sweetness of the cod.
Black pepper: Adds subtle warmth to balance the cheesy topping.
Grated Parmesan cheese: Brings bold umami flavor and a toasty, nutty crunch when baked.
Panko breadcrumbs: These Japanese-style breadcrumbs stay light and crisp for that signature crust.
Garlic powder: Infuses gentle garlicky notes without overpowering the fish.
Italian seasoning: Offers a whisper of herbal flavor that complements the Parmesan beautifully.
Fresh parsley (optional): A sprinkle of parsley adds freshness and vibrant color to the crust.
Olive oil: Helps bind the coating to the fish and adds richness to every bite.
Lemon wedges: A bright squeeze of lemon right before serving wakes up all the flavors.

How to Make Parmesan Crusted Cod

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Sheet

Start by heating your oven to 425°F. You want a good, high temp to ensure that crispy, golden topping. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper—this makes cleanup a breeze—or give it a light greasing if you prefer. This step helps prevent the fish from sticking and keeps those gorgeous crusts intact.

Step 2: Dry and Season the Cod

Gently pat your cod fillets dry with paper towels. This simple step helps the seasonings stick and ensures you get maximum crispiness. Sprinkle both sides with salt and black pepper, massaging them in for an even layer of flavor that forms the base of your Parmesan Crusted Cod.

Step 3: Make the Parmesan Crust Mixture

In a shallow bowl, mix together grated Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and, if you like a burst of color and freshness, chopped parsley. Every ingredient here contributes to a crust that’s cheesy, crunchy, and aromatic—the hallmark of a great Parmesan Crusted Cod.

Step 4: Coat the Cod Fillets

Brush the tops of the seasoned cod fillets with olive oil. This not only encourages browning but also ensures the crust clings perfectly. Press the oiled side of each fillet into the Parmesan mixture, gently but firmly, so you get an even, generous coating. The result is a crust that bakes up beautifully golden and flavorful.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Arrange your fillets crust-side up on the prepared baking sheet, giving them a little space. Pop them into your preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the crust is a deep golden brown. For extra crunch, try broiling during the last minute or two. Serve immediately with lemon wedges and watch the magic happen!

How to Serve Parmesan Crusted Cod

Garnishes

Garnishing really elevates the finished dish. I love a shower of fresh parsley and a generous squeeze of lemon just before serving—both add brightness and make your Parmesan Crusted Cod pop with color and flavor. A tiny sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top doesn’t hurt either if you’re feeling decadent.

Side Dishes

This cod pairs effortlessly with so many sides. Try it with roasted vegetables (like asparagus or broccoli), a crisp mixed greens salad, or even simple steamed rice. The herby crust plays beautifully with lighter, fresher accompaniments and you’ll find yourself reaching for this combination again and again.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving guests or just want to spruce up a weeknight, cut the cod into smaller pieces and serve on a platter with toothpicks and lemon wedges for an appetizer-style presentation. Or, flake the Parmesan Crusted Cod and tuck it into tortillas for unique fish tacos—add slaw and a quick herb sauce for a fun twist!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Parmesan Crusted Cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. If possible, line the container with a paper towel to help absorb moisture and preserve that coveted crispy crust.

Freezing

While fresh is best, you can freeze cooked fillets in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag once solid. For optimal texture, try to enjoy them within a month and reheat straight from frozen to maintain the crust as much as possible.

Reheating

For the crispiest results, reheat Parmesan Crusted Cod in a hot oven (about 375°F) for 8 to 10 minutes, or until it’s warmed through and crunchy. Microwaving is quick, but you’ll lose the crust’s delightful crunch, so the oven is your best friend here.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! While cod is traditional and delivers that hallmark flakiness, haddock, tilapia, or even halibut are wonderful options. Just adjust cooking time based on thickness so your fish stays tender and juicy.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It certainly can be! Just substitute gluten-free panko or breadcrumbs and the rest of the ingredients in Parmesan Crusted Cod remain naturally gluten-free—easy, delicious, and suitable for all guests.

How do I know when the cod is perfectly cooked?

You’ll know your cod is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and the crust has turned a lovely golden brown. Be careful not to overbake, as cod can become dry—keep an eye on it, especially toward the end of cook time.

Can I prepare the crust mixture in advance?

Yes! You can mix together the Parmesan, panko, and seasonings ahead of time. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days, and when you’re ready, just coat your cod fillets and bake as usual.

What’s the best way to make the crust extra crispy?

For a restaurant-style texture, give the Parmesan Crusted Cod a quick broil for 1 or 2 minutes at the end of baking, keeping a close eye to prevent burning. The broiler elevates that crunchy, cheesy topping to perfection.

Final Thoughts

There you have it—an easy, splendid way to serve up a crowd-pleasing dinner with Parmesan Crusted Cod. Each bite offers that ideal balance of flaky, succulent fish and crispy, cheesy topping. I hope you give this recipe a try soon…and that it earns a spot among your family favorites!

Parmesan Crusted Cod Recipe

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4.7 from 27 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Parmesan Crusted Cod recipe is a simple and delicious way to prepare cod fillets with a crispy, flavorful topping. The combination of Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and savory seasonings creates a golden crust that perfectly complements the tender fish. Serve with lemon wedges for a bright finish.

Ingredients

Scale

Cod Fillets:

4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper

Crust Mixture:

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup panko breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Additional:

2 tablespoons olive oil
lemon wedges for serving

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Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F and prepare a baking sheet.
Season the cod: Pat the cod fillets dry, season with salt and pepper.
Prepare the crust: Mix Parmesan, panko, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and parsley.
Coat the fillets: Brush fillets with olive oil, press into Parmesan mixture.
Bake: Arrange fillets on the baking sheet, bake until cooked through and golden.
Serve: Serve hot with lemon wedges.