If you're looking for a quick and flavorful dinner that’s both light and satisfying, this Crispy Parmesan Baked Cod is the perfect dish. With a golden, crunchy crust and tender, flaky fish inside, it combines the best of both texture and taste.
The zesty lemon and savory Parmesan create a mouthwatering contrast, making this a meal that feels special without the hassle. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights or a simple yet impressive dinner to have on your table.
My family has always enjoyed a good fish dinner, but some recipes can feel a bit too fancy or complicated. There’s a common misconception that cooking fish requires elaborate techniques or ingredients that aren’t always easy to find. The truth is that fish can be just as easy to prepare as any other protein, and it can be just as satisfying without all the fuss.
This Crispy Parmesan Baked Cod is the perfect solution. It’s light, healthy, and comes together in no time, making it the perfect dish for a quick weeknight dinner. The best part? The recipe is incredibly simple, using ingredients you likely already have in your pantry, yet it delivers bold, rich flavors that will impress everyone at the table. It’s a dish that proves you don’t need to complicate things to make a tasty and nutritious meal!
Jump to:
Ingredients
- Cod Filets – Look for fresh, firm, and moist fish fillets with a mild scent. If using frozen fish, thaw it completely and pat it dry before using. Other white fish like halibut, mahi mahi, or flounder can be substituted.
- Sea Salt – Enhances the natural flavor of the fish.
- Olive Oil – Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for added richness and flavor.
- Panko Bread Crumbs – These give the dish its crispy texture. Choose unseasoned panko so the other seasonings shine through.
- Parsley – Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and flavor. Chop it finely for an even distribution.
- Seasoned Salt – Adds a flavorful blend of spices to the coating.
- Paprika – Adds a subtle smoky flavor and beautiful color to the topping.
- Dried Italian Seasoning – A flavorful mix of herbs that complements the fish.
- Parmesan Cheese – Use freshly grated cheese for the best flavor and texture and to add a savory richness to the dish.
- Lemon – Adds brightness and balances the savory topping. Roll the lemon on the counter before cutting to release the juices more easily.
See recipe card for quantities.
How to Make Parmesan Baked Cod
- Step 1: Place the cod pieces in a single layer on a prepared baking pan. Sprinkle the fish with salt.
- Step 2: In a small frying pan or skillet prepare the topping. Heat the oil on medium then add the panko bread crumbs, parsley, seasoned salt, paprika, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan cheese. Stir in the juice of half a lemon.
- Step 3: Evenly divide the panko crumb mixture on top of each cod fillet. Press down lightly so it sticks to the fish.
- Step 4: Bake for 12 to 14 minutes or until crumbs are golden and fish is flaky and no longer translucent. If using a digital thermometer, internal temperature of fish should reach 145 degrees.
Hint: If using frozen fish, thaw completely and pat dry with paper towels.
Variations/ Substitutions
- Fish - Swap cod for other mild, flaky white fish like halibut, haddock, mahi mahi, tilapia, or flounder. Adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the thickness of the fillets.
- Breadcrumbs - Substitute regular breadcrumbs, gluten-free breadcrumbs, or crushed crackers for the panko if needed. For extra crunch, mix in crushed cornflakes.
- Seasoning - You can swap any of the seasonings for your favorite. Try garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dill, chives or cilantro.
If you like this Parmesan Baked Cod, also try my recipe for Cod Fish and Artichoke Piccata.
Storage
Allow the baked cod to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven for 8-10 minutes or in the air fryer for 4-6 minutes. Heat until the fish is warmed through and the topping is crispy. Be careful not to reheat too long or the fish will dry out.
Top Cooking Tips
- Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels before seasoning. This helps the coating stick better and ensures the fish bakes up perfectly flaky.
- Fresh ingredients like parsley, Parmesan, and lemon juice make a big difference in flavor.
- Place the fillets in a single layer on the baking sheet with a little space between them. This helps the coating crisp up instead of steaming.
- Sautéing the panko mixture in olive oil before baking ensures a golden, crispy topping without overcooking the fish.
- Taste and adjust the breadcrumb mixture before topping the fish. Add a little more seasoning or herbs as needed.
- Fish cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking. It’s ready when it flakes easily with a fork or reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
- Line your baking sheet with parchment for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Serving Suggestions
This Crispy Parmesan Baked Cod pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes, making it a versatile main course for any occasion. For a refreshing contrast, try serving it alongside a light and tangy Easy Asian Cucumber Salad or a summery Fresh Corn and Tomato Salad.
For heartier sides, consider the sweet and savory combination of Air Fryer Cubed Sweet Potatoes or crispy Frozen French Fries in an Air Fryer for a quick and easy option. If you're craving something a little more indulgent, Easy Mexican Street Corn or Baked Tomato Slices with Parmesan are excellent choices to complement the delicate flavors of the cod.
FAQ
If using frozen cod, make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator and pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the breadcrumb topping stick and ensures the fish cooks evenly.
Yes, this parmesan baked cod recipe works great in an air fryer! Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees F, place the prepared cod fillets in the basket, and cook for 8–10 minutes, or until the fish is flaky and the topping is golden.
Related
Looking for more fish recipes? Try these:
If you like this Parmesan Baked Cod recipe, please leave a 5-star rating.
RECIPE
Crispy Parmesan Baked Cod
Ingredients
- 24 ounces cod filets 4 filets
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ¾ cup panko bread crumbs
- 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley plus extra for garnish
- 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 medium lemon
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Grease a baking sheet or line with parchment paper. Place the cod pieces in a single layer on the pan. Sprinkle the fish with salt.
- In a small frying pan or skillet, heat the oil on medium then add the panko bread crumbs, parsley, seasoned salt, paprika, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan cheese. Cut the lemon in half and squeeze the juice from half the lemon into the pan. Reserve other half. With a wooden spoon, lightly mix until the liquid is absorbed and it turns into a crumb like mixture.
- Evenly divide the panko crumb mixture on top of each cod fillet. Press down lightly so it sticks to the fish. Bake for 12 to 14 minutes or until crumbs are golden and fish is flaky and no longer translucent. If using a digital thermometer, internal temperature of fish should reach 145 degrees.
- Slice the remaining lemon half and serve with the fish. Garnish with extra parsley if desired.
Notes
Nutrition
Thanks for stopping by! Subscribe to Jersey Girl Cooks if you would like more recipes and cooking tips sent to your email. You can also order my Super Easy Cookbook for Beginners and follow me on social media - Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram.
Leave a Reply