Panko Parmesan Baked Cod Recipe
If you’re craving something effortlessly elegant yet incredibly easy, this Panko Parmesan Baked Cod might be just the thing to bring a bright, savory touch to your dinner table! Perfectly flaky cod fillets are topped with a golden, crispy crust of panko breadcrumbs, nutty Parmesan, and fresh parsley, then baked to perfection in less than half an hour. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight meal or entertaining friends, you’ll find that every bite of this dish is bursting with flavor and irresistible crunch—in short, it’s pure comfort food with a gourmet twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed how a handful of everyday ingredients can transform mild cod into a restaurant-worthy main course. Each element here plays its part in delivering unique texture, vibrant color, and a rewarding punch of savory flavor.
- Cod fillets: Choose fresh or thawed, firm white fish fillets for the best flaky texture and mild flavor.
- Panko breadcrumbs: These Japanese-style breadcrumbs are the key to the ultra-crisp, golden topping—so much lighter and crunchier than regular breadcrumbs.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a rich, nutty layer that crisps up beautifully and enhances the overall umami flavor.
- Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley brings color and a refreshing hint of herbal brightness to the crust.
- Garlic powder: Imparts gentle savory depth without overpowering the delicate fish.
- Onion powder: Rounds out the seasoning, bringing a subtle sweetness to complement the garlic.
- Paprika: Just a touch for a pop of color and a whisper of smoky warmth.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for balancing and brightening all the flavors in your Panko Parmesan Baked Cod.
- Olive oil: This not only helps the crumb topping crisp up, but also gives a rich finish to each bite.
- Lemon wedges, for serving: Squeezing lemon over the finished dish wakes everything up with tangy acidity and freshness.
How to Make Panko Parmesan Baked Cod
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Sheet
Begin by heating your oven to 400°F. This temperature is ideal for achieving tender, juicy fish and a perfectly golden topping. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup or lightly grease it with oil to prevent sticking. A well-prepared pan sets you up for success, making sure the cod lifts off effortlessly after baking.
Step 2: Make the Flavorful Crumb Mixture
In a small mixing bowl, combine your panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, a generous pinch of salt, and a sprinkle of black pepper. Drizzle in the olive oil and gently toss everything together until the crumbs are evenly coated. You want the mixture to look like damp sand—the olive oil helps it crisp up to perfection on top of your fish.
Step 3: Prepare the Cod
Pat your cod fillets dry with paper towels. This quick step is crucial for getting that crispy crust to stick and prevents any unwanted sogginess. Arrange the cod fillets on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them out to ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Top with the Panko Parmesan Mixture
Spoon the crumb mixture generously over the tops of each fillet. Use your fingers or the back of a spoon to gently press the coating down so it adheres in an even layer. This might feel a bit rustic, but that’s part of the charm of homemade Panko Parmesan Baked Cod!
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake the cod in your preheated oven for about 12 to 15 minutes. The fillets should flake easily with a fork, and the crust should be beautifully golden and crisp. For an extra crunchy finish, you can slide the pan under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes at the end—just keep a close eye on it, as the topping can go from golden to charred in a flash.
Step 6: Serve with a Zesty Finish
Once your Panko Parmesan Baked Cod is out of the oven, serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges on the side. A quick squeeze brings everything to life, highlighting all those toasty, cheesy flavors and ensuring each bite tastes bright and delicious.
How to Serve Panko Parmesan Baked Cod
Garnishes
A sprinkling of extra chopped parsley or even a dusting of freshly grated Parmesan will instantly elevate the look and zip of your Panko Parmesan Baked Cod. A few paper-thin lemon slices or a little lemon zest scattered across the top adds sunny color and even more zing.
Side Dishes
This dish loves to be paired with light, fresh sides. Think garlicky green beans, steamed asparagus, or a simple baby spinach salad tossed with a tangy vinaigrette. For something heartier, a side of creamy mashed potatoes or herbed rice is always welcome and makes for a satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Layer the cod atop a bed of sautéed spinach or a simple risotto for an elegant presentation. Or, turn leftover Panko Parmesan Baked Cod into handheld lettuce wraps with a creamy yogurt sauce for a lunch you’ll look forward to. Don’t be afraid to add your own flair with colorful veggies or a bed of orzo.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftover Panko Parmesan Baked Cod, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The fish is best enjoyed fresh, but refrigeration will keep it safe and tasty for a quick next-day lunch or dinner.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked cod, although the crispy topping might soften after thawing. Cool the fillets completely, then wrap each one individually in foil or parchment and store them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To revive the crispy topping, reheat the cod in a preheated 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid the microwave, which tends to make the crust soggy. If you’d like, pop it under the broiler for a minute or two at the end to bring back that crunch.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! This recipe adapts beautifully to other mild white fish like haddock or halibut. Just keep an eye on cooking times, as thinner or thicker fillets may need more or less time in the oven.
Is it necessary to use panko breadcrumbs?
Panko is really the secret to that unbeatable crunch in Panko Parmesan Baked Cod, but you can substitute regular breadcrumbs in a pinch—the texture will just be a bit less crispy and airy.
What’s the best way to tell if my cod is done?
Cod is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and looks opaque all the way through. Overbaking can dry it out, so check a minute or two before the end of your timer for best results.
How do I make this dish gluten free?
All you need is gluten-free panko breadcrumbs (widely available in most supermarkets). Double-check that your other ingredients are gluten-free, too, and you’re all set to enjoy Panko Parmesan Baked Cod worry-free!
Can I make this recipe dairy free?
Yes, just swap the Parmesan for your favorite non-dairy, hard cheese alternative. The crust will still be deliciously crispy and flavorful, making this a flexible option for many diets.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Panko Parmesan Baked Cod highly enough—it’s the perfect blend of comfort, crunch, and fresh flavors, all with hardly any fuss. If you’re ready to brighten up your dinner rotation with something everyone at the table will devour, this recipe just might become your new favorite. Happy cooking, and enjoy every crispy, cheesy bite!
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Panko Parmesan Baked Cod Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Panko Parmesan Baked Cod recipe is a delicious and easy way to enjoy tender, flaky cod with a crispy, flavorful topping. The combination of panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and aromatic seasonings creates a dish that’s both simple to prepare and impressive to serve. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special weekend meal.
Ingredients
Cod Fillets:
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)
Panko Parmesan Topping:
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For Serving:
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it lightly.
- Mix the topping: In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Drizzle with olive oil and mix until coated.
- Prepare the cod: Pat dry the cod fillets and place them on the baking sheet. Spread the breadcrumb mixture evenly over each fillet.
- Bake: Bake for 12–15 minutes until the fish is flaky and the topping is crispy and golden.
- Serve: Serve the baked cod warm with lemon wedges.
Notes
- For extra crunch, broil the fish for the last 1–2 minutes of baking.
- This recipe also works well with haddock or halibut.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
