Parmesan Crusted Baked Cod: A Delicious and Easy Weeknight Meal

Baked cod is a fantastic choice for a quick, healthy, and flavorful weeknight dinner. This Parmesan crusted baked cod recipe elevates the simple fish to a gourmet level with minimal effort. The crispy, cheesy crust perfectly complements the flaky, mild cod, creating a delightful texture and taste sensation. This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing for customization based on your preferences and available ingredients. It’s also a great option for those looking for a low-carb or gluten-free meal.

## Why This Parmesan Crusted Baked Cod Recipe Works

* **Simple and Quick:** This recipe requires only a handful of ingredients and comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
* **Flavorful:** The combination of Parmesan cheese, herbs, and lemon zest creates a vibrant and savory crust that enhances the delicate flavor of the cod.
* **Healthy:** Cod is a lean protein source, and baking it minimizes the use of added fats.
* **Versatile:** You can easily adapt this recipe to your liking by adding different herbs, spices, or vegetables.
* **Kid-Friendly:** Even picky eaters will enjoy the cheesy, crispy crust and mild flavor of the cod.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a list of the essential ingredients for this Parmesan crusted baked cod recipe:

* **Cod fillets:** About 1.5-2 pounds, fresh or frozen (thawed).
* **Parmesan cheese:** Finely grated; fresh Parmesan provides the best flavor and texture.
* **Breadcrumbs:** Panko breadcrumbs are recommended for extra crispiness, but regular breadcrumbs will also work.
* **Olive oil:** Extra virgin olive oil adds richness and flavor.
* **Lemon:** Zest and juice for brightness and acidity.
* **Garlic:** Minced garlic enhances the savory flavor of the crust.
* **Fresh herbs:** Parsley, thyme, or oregano, finely chopped, add freshness and aroma. A combination of herbs works well too.
* **Salt and pepper:** To taste.
* **Optional additions:** Red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, Dijon mustard for tanginess, or a sprinkle of paprika for color and smokiness.

## Equipment Needed

* Baking sheet
* Parchment paper or aluminum foil (optional, for easier cleanup)
* Shallow bowls or plates for breading
* Grater for Parmesan cheese
* Lemon zester or microplane
* Measuring cups and spoons

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions to create the perfect Parmesan crusted baked cod:

**Preparation (5 minutes)**

1. **Preheat the oven:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). If using, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easier cleanup. Lightly grease the parchment paper or foil with cooking spray to prevent the fish from sticking.
2. **Prepare the cod:** Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. This helps the crust adhere better. Check for any pin bones and remove them using tweezers if necessary.
3. **Prepare the lemon:** Zest the lemon using a lemon zester or microplane, then juice half of the lemon. Reserve the other half for serving.
4. **Chop the herbs:** Finely chop your chosen fresh herbs, such as parsley, thyme, or oregano.
5. **Mince the garlic:** Mince the garlic cloves. You can use a garlic press or mince them finely with a knife.

**Making the Parmesan Crust (5 minutes)**

1. **Combine the ingredients:** In a shallow bowl or plate, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, lemon zest, chopped herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. **Add olive oil and lemon juice:** Drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice over the Parmesan mixture. Use a fork to combine, ensuring the mixture is moist but not soggy. The consistency should be similar to wet sand.

**Crusting the Cod (3 minutes)**

1. **Press the crust onto the cod:** Take a cod fillet and gently press the Parmesan mixture onto the top of the fillet, ensuring it is evenly coated. You can also lightly press the mixture onto the sides of the fillet if desired.
2. **Repeat for all fillets:** Repeat the process for the remaining cod fillets, using all of the Parmesan mixture.

**Baking the Cod (12-15 minutes)**

1. **Place the cod on the baking sheet:** Carefully place the Parmesan crusted cod fillets onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each fillet.
2. **Bake:** Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and the Parmesan crust is golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature of the cod should reach 145°F (63°C).

**Serving (2 minutes)**

1. **Check for doneness:** Use a fork to gently flake the cod. If it flakes easily and is opaque throughout, it is done. If not, return it to the oven for a few more minutes.
2. **Garnish:** Garnish the baked cod with fresh parsley sprigs and lemon wedges.
3. **Serve immediately:** Serve the Parmesan crusted baked cod immediately while it’s hot and crispy. It pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, rice, quinoa, or a simple salad.

## Tips for the Perfect Parmesan Crusted Baked Cod

* **Use high-quality Parmesan:** Freshly grated Parmesan cheese will provide the best flavor and texture for the crust. Avoid using pre-grated Parmesan cheese, as it often contains cellulose and anti-caking agents that can affect the texture and flavor.
* **Don’t overcook the cod:** Cod is a delicate fish that can easily become dry and rubbery if overcooked. Bake it just until it is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the fillets.
* **Pat the cod dry:** Patting the cod fillets dry with paper towels before adding the crust helps the crust adhere better and prevents the fish from becoming soggy.
* **Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet:** Leave some space between the cod fillets on the baking sheet to ensure they cook evenly and the crust becomes crispy.
* **Broil for extra crispiness (optional):** For an extra crispy crust, you can broil the cod for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking time. Watch it closely to prevent burning.
* **Adjust the seasoning:** Taste the Parmesan mixture before applying it to the cod and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your preferences.
* **Thaw frozen cod properly:** If using frozen cod, thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cooking. Do not thaw it at room temperature, as this can promote bacterial growth.
* **Add a touch of Dijon mustard:** For a tangy twist, add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the Parmesan mixture.
* **Use different herbs:** Experiment with different herbs, such as dill, basil, or chives, to create different flavor profiles.
* **Add some spice:** For a touch of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the Parmesan mixture.

## Variations and Adaptations

This Parmesan crusted baked cod recipe is incredibly versatile and can be easily adapted to suit your preferences and dietary needs. Here are a few variations to try:

* **Gluten-Free Parmesan Crusted Cod:** Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour in place of regular breadcrumbs.
* **Low-Carb Parmesan Crusted Cod:** Use almond flour or crushed pork rinds in place of breadcrumbs.
* **Spicy Parmesan Crusted Cod:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the Parmesan mixture.
* **Lemon-Herb Parmesan Crusted Cod:** Increase the amount of lemon zest and add a variety of fresh herbs, such as dill, parsley, and thyme.
* **Garlic Parmesan Crusted Cod:** Increase the amount of minced garlic or add garlic powder to the Parmesan mixture.
* **Parmesan Crusted Cod with Vegetables:** Add chopped vegetables, such as broccoli florets, asparagus spears, or cherry tomatoes, to the baking sheet alongside the cod.
* **Parmesan Crusted Cod with Pesto:** Spread a thin layer of pesto on the cod fillets before adding the Parmesan crust.

## Serving Suggestions

Parmesan crusted baked cod is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few serving suggestions:

* **Roasted Vegetables:** Roasted broccoli, asparagus, carrots, or Brussels sprouts.
* **Rice:** White rice, brown rice, or wild rice.
* **Quinoa:** A healthy and protein-rich alternative to rice.
* **Salad:** A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette.
* **Mashed Potatoes:** Creamy mashed potatoes or mashed sweet potatoes.
* **Garlic Bread:** Crusty garlic bread for soaking up the delicious juices.
* **Lemon Wedges:** Serve with extra lemon wedges for squeezing over the fish.
* **Tartar Sauce:** A classic accompaniment to fish.

## Make Ahead and Storage Instructions

**Make Ahead:** You can prepare the Parmesan mixture ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. You can also crust the cod fillets ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, it’s best to bake the cod immediately after crusting it to prevent the crust from becoming soggy.

**Storage:** Store leftover Parmesan crusted baked cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or in the microwave until heated through.

## Nutritional Information (per serving)

*Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.*

* Calories: Approximately 300-400
* Protein: 30-40 grams
* Fat: 15-25 grams
* Carbohydrates: 5-10 grams

## Conclusion

This Parmesan crusted baked cod recipe is a simple, delicious, and healthy meal that is perfect for any occasion. With its crispy, cheesy crust and flaky, mild cod, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your guests, this recipe is a winner. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a truly unforgettable culinary experience!

Enjoy your Parmesan Crusted Baked Cod!