This crispy Parmesan-crusted cod is a treat for your taste buds! It features tender fish coated in a crunchy, cheesy crust that’s simply irresistible.
You’ll love how easy it is to whip up this dish for dinner. Just bake, and voilà! It’s so good that even your picky eaters may ask for seconds. 🐟✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cod Fillets: This dish shines with cod, which has a mild flavor and firm texture. If cod isn’t available, you can use haddock, pollock, or even tilapia. Just make sure they’re similar in thickness for even cooking.
Panko Breadcrumbs: I love using panko for its extra crunch. If you can’t find it, regular breadcrumbs work too, but for a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free panko breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
Parmesan Cheese: The grated Parmesan adds great flavor and helps with the crust. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can mimic the cheesy flavor, or you can use a vegan Parmesan if you can find it.
Fresh Parsley: Fresh parsley adds brightness to the dish. If you don’t have it on hand, you can substitute with dried parsley (use about one tablespoon) or swap it for another fresh herb like basil or dill for a different flavor.
How Do You Get the Perfect Crispy Coating?
Coating your cod correctly is essential for that crispy finish. It’s all about the dredging technique. Here’s how to get it right:
- Start by patting the cod dry. Moist fish won’t allow for a good coating.
- Season the flour with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
- When dipping in the egg mixture, let excess drip off before moving to the breadcrumbs. This helps the coating stick better.
- Press the breadcrumb mixture firmly on all sides of the cod. This extra push helps create a thicker, crunchier crust.
Finally, remember to drizzle the olive oil on top before baking. This step is crucial for achieving that beautiful golden-brown crust.
How to Make Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Cod
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fish:
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Coating:
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for drizzling)
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15-20 minutes of cooking time. So, in total, you can have this delightful crispy Parmesan-crusted cod ready in about 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating up, grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This will help the cod cook evenly and prevent it from sticking to the pan.
2. Prepare the Coating Mixtures
In a shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well so everything is evenly distributed. In another shallow bowl, place the flour and season it with salt and pepper. And in a third bowl, beat the eggs and add the lemon zest along with the chopped parsley. This will give the fish a nice flavor boost!
3. Season and Dredge the Cod
Take your cod fillets and pat them dry with paper towels. Sprinkle salt and pepper over both sides of the fillets for seasoning. Now it’s time to coat them! First, dredge each fillet in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Finally, press the fillet into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure both sides are well coated for that crispy crust!
4. Bake the Cod
Once all your cod fillets are coated, place them on the prepared baking sheet. For an extra touch of crispiness, drizzle a little olive oil over each fillet. Now, slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the fish is opaque, flakes easily with a fork, and the crust is a lovely golden brown.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Carefully remove the cod from the oven. Garnish with some extra chopped parsley and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for that refreshing kick. Serve warm with lemon wedges on the side. Enjoy your crispy Parmesan-crusted cod!
Can I Use Other Types of Fish for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While cod is perfect for its mild flavor and flaky texture, you can substitute with other firm white fish like haddock, tilapia, or snapper. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may vary slightly based on the thickness of the fillets.
What Can I Use Instead of Panko Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs will work too, but your coating may be less crispy. Alternatively, you can crush crackers or even use cornflakes for a different texture. Just adjust the quantity as needed, using enough to coat your fish adequately.
How Should I Store Leftover Cod?
To store any leftovers, place the cod fillets in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, you can put them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through, which helps maintain the crispiness better than microwaving.
Can I Make the Coating Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to cook, dredge the fish as directed, and enjoy a quicker prep time without sacrificing flavor!
