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
Scale
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
