Herb-Crusted Baked Cod

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 18 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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This Herb-Crusted Baked Cod is a bright and flavorful dish that brings a fresh twist to your dinner table. With a golden, crunchy topping and tender, flaky fish, it's a perfect way to enjoy seafood with minimal fuss. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients for Herb-Crusted Baked Cod

Cod fillets are the star of this dish, offering a mild, flaky texture that pairs well with a vibrant crust. For the coating, panko breadcrumbs provide that extra crunch, while Parmesan cheese adds a salty, rich depth. Fresh herbs like parsley and dill brighten the flavor and complement the lemon zest, which adds a subtle citrusy zing. A touch of salt and black pepper ties everything together. Combining melted butter with olive oil helps bind the crust and keeps the fish moist. Finish with lemon wedges for an extra burst of citrus when serving.

Tips & Tricks

  • For the best crust, make sure your fillets are dry before applying the topping.
  • If you prefer a thicker crust, double the breadcrumb mixture.
  • Using a zester for the lemon zest will ensure small, even pieces that blend well into the crust.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with a simple arugula salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside garlic mashed potatoes or a medley of roasted seasonal vegetables. A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the flavors well.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of fish?
Yes, this recipe works well with other white fish such as haddock or tilapia.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It's best served fresh, but you can prepare the breadcrumb mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge.

Herb-Crusted Baked Cod Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Next, in a medium bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, dill, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix them together so that all the flavors are well distributed.

Now, pour in the melted butter and olive oil, stirring until the mixture resembles wet sand. This ensures the topping will stick to the fish and form a nice crust. Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels — this helps the crust adhere better. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Press the breadcrumb mixture onto each fillet, covering them evenly. A gentle press ensures the coating stays put while baking. Pop the sheet into the oven and bake for 15-18 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the crust is golden and the fish flakes easily when tested with a fork.

Once baked, serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for a fresh squeeze of juice over the top. Enjoy!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
  • Fresh flavors: Herbs and lemon zest make it sing.
  • Healthy: Light yet satisfying with minimal oil.
  • Elegant: Looks impressive without the effort.

Ingredients

4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
1 tsp lemon zest
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 tbsp olive oil
1 lemon, cut into wedges

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, dill, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper.
3. Stir in the melted butter and olive oil until the mixture resembles wet sand.
4. Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Press the breadcrumb mixture onto each fillet, ensuring an even coating.
6. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
7. Serve with lemon wedges on the side.

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