Crispy Parmesan Baked Cod Recipe
Introduction
This Crispy Parmesan Baked Cod recipe offers a delightful combination of tender, flaky fish topped with a crunchy, cheesy crust. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner that feels special.
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets (approx. 2 pounds)
- 35 butter crackers (such as Ritz or Club), crushed (about 1 ½ cups)
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper, then place the cod fillets on the prepared sheet.
- Step 2: Place the butter crackers in a zip-top bag and crush them into crumbs using a rolling pin or the bottom of a heavy pan.
- Step 3: In a small bowl, combine the crushed crackers, Parmesan cheese, melted butter, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Step 4: Evenly spread the cracker mixture over the top of each cod fillet, pressing gently to adhere.
- Step 5: Bake the cod for approximately 25 minutes, until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork and the topping is golden and crispy.
- Step 6: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley if desired before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of garlic powder or paprika to the cracker mixture.
- Try swapping Parmesan for Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
- Use gluten-free crackers to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.
- If you prefer a lighter crust, reduce the butter to 1 tablespoon and add a splash of olive oil for moisture.
Storage
Store leftover baked cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 300 degrees F to maintain crispiness, or in the microwave for convenience, though the topping may soften.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cod fillets for this recipe?
Yes, frozen cod can be used; just make sure to thaw it completely and pat dry before applying the cracker topping to ensure it sticks properly.
What can I serve with Crispy Parmesan Baked Cod?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, a simple green salad, or roasted potatoes for a well-rounded meal.
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Crispy Parmesan Baked Cod Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Crispy Parmesan Baked Cod recipe features tender, flaky cod fillets topped with a golden, buttery Parmesan and cracker crumb crust. Baked to perfection at 350°F, it’s an easy yet elegant dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. The combination of buttery crackers and tangy Parmesan cheese creates a flavorful and satisfying crust that adds texture and richness to the mild cod. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal.
Ingredients
Fish
- 4 Cod fillets, approx. 2 pounds
Topping
- 35 butter crackers (such as Ritz or Club), crushed, approx. 1 ½ cups
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese
- 2 Tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt & pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) to prepare for baking the cod.
- Prepare the baking sheet: Grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper to prevent the fish from sticking.
- Place the cod: Arrange the cod fillets evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Crush the crackers: Place the butter crackers into a zip lock bag and crush them into crumbs using a rolling pin or any heavy object.
- Make the topping mixture: In a small bowl, combine the crushed crackers with Parmesan cheese, melted butter, lemon juice, and salt & pepper. Mix until well incorporated.
- Apply the topping: Evenly spoon and press the cracker and cheese mixture over the top of each cod fillet to form a crust.
- Bake the cod: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork, and the topping is golden and crispy.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the cod from the oven and top with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- For a crispier crust, you can broil the cod for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- If you don’t have butter crackers, substitute with another buttery cracker or panko breadcrumbs for a different texture.
- Fresh lemon juice adds brightness, but you can add a little lemon zest for extra citrus flavor.
- Adjust salt and pepper according to your taste preferences; consider low-sodium options for a healthier version.
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Baked Cod, Parmesan Crusted Fish, Crispy Fish Recipe, Easy Cod Dinner, Healthy Fish Recipe, Parmesan Baked Cod
