Name: Parmesan Baked Cod
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 lemon (zest and juice); 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 1/4 teaspoons paprika; 3 tablespoons salted butter (optional: up to 5 tablespoons); 1 1/2 pounds fresh cod

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Parmesan Baked Cod

Parmesan Baked Cod is a dish that beautifully blends the delicate flavor of fresh cod with the savory richness of Parmesan cheese, offering a delightful culinary experience that’s both comforting and enticing. This recipe is a true gem for anyone looking to prepare a satisfying and impressive meal without a fuss. The crispy, golden crust formed by the Parmesan provides a satisfying crunch, while the tender fish beneath is flaked and moist, creating a mouthwatering combination that’s hard to resist. You’ll find yourself returning to this easy and flavorful dish time and again, making it perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.

What makes Parmesan Baked Cod worth making is not just the incredible flavors, but also the simplicity of the process. This recipe is quick and requires minimal ingredients, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Plus, the step-by-step directions ensure that even novice cooks can achieve fantastic results. Ready to treat your taste buds with this deliciousness? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Parmesan Baked Cod recipe stands out for various reasons. First, the prep is remarkably easy, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal with loved ones. The straightforward steps make this a family-friendly dish that everyone will enjoy, from picky eaters to adventurous foodies. It also caters to those who appreciate quick meals, as you can have this on the table in about 30 minutes.

With only a handful of ingredients, this recipe is not only wallet-friendly but also allows the flavors of the fresh cod to shine through. It’s a delightful dish that guarantees a satisfying and nutritious dinner without overwhelming the cooks with complicated techniques or fancy tools.

Ingredients for Parmesan Baked Cod

To create the flaky, cheesy perfection that is Parmesan Baked Cod, you will need:

3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a rich, salty flavor perfect for crusting fish.
1/2 lemon (zest and juice): Adds a refreshing brightness and acidity.
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Provides a vibrant color and adds a hint of herbal freshness.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the dish with a subtle, savory undertone.
1 1/4 teaspoons paprika: Adds a mild, peppery flavor and beautiful color.
3 tablespoons salted butter (use up to 5 tablespoons for an extra butter sauce, optional): Adds richness and helps the breadcrumbs stick.
1 1/2 pounds fresh cod: The star of the dish, providing light and flaky texture.

Step-by-Step Directions for Parmesan Baked Cod

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a rimmed baking sheet by greasing it with cooking spray; this will prevent the fish from sticking and ensure an easy cleanup.
In a mixing bowl, combine the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and paprika. These ingredients come together to create a flavorful crust for the fish. Add the zest of half a lemon, which brings a fragrant and zesty freshness to the mix. Now, toss in the chopped parsley and stir to blend everything into a cohesive mixture.
Rinse the fresh cod fillets under cold water and then pat them very dry with paper towels. This step is essential to allowing the coating to adhere properly.
Melt the salted butter in a microwave-safe bowl or a small saucepan over low heat. For those who prefer a richer flavor, feel free to use up to 5 tablespoons of butter to ensure that every bite is more indulgent.
Dip each piece of cod into the melted butter, ensuring it is fully coated before dredging it in the Parmesan mixture. Press the fish lightly into the mixture to ensure a generous coating.
Arrange the coated cod fillets on the greased baking sheet, leaving some space between each piece. Drizzle any remaining melted butter over the fish for added moisture and flavor.
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the fish flake easily with a fork and the crust turns a beautiful golden brown.
Once cooked, remove the cod from the oven and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top just before serving. This final touch elevates the dish, enhancing its flavor profile.

Tips & Tricks for Parmesan Baked Cod

To make your Parmesan Baked Cod even better, consider these chef’s secrets and tips:

Use fresh herbs: While parsley is delicious, experimenting with other herbs like thyme or dill can add unique flavor dimensions to the dish.
Crispier crust: If you desire an extra crispy crust, try broiling for the last minute or two of cooking but watch carefully to prevent burning.
Add spices: If you enjoy heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the cheese mixture for a kick.
Try different fish: While cod is a fantastic choice, you can also use other white fish like haddock or tilapia for a change.
Serve with additional sauce: If you want to enhance the flavors, whisk together some lemon juice, garlic, and a bit of olive oil for a simple dipping sauce.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Parmesan Baked Cod is versatile and pairs beautifully with various sides. Here are some creative serving ideas:

Veggie Sides: Pair with steamed broccoli, green beans, or a fresh garden salad for a colorful and nutritious plate.
Starch Options: Serve with fluffy quinoa, fluffy rice, or garlic mashed potatoes for a comforting side that complements the fish.
Garnishes: Add lemon wedges and extra parsley on the side for a fresh presentation.
Drinks: A refreshing iced tea or sparkling water with lemon is a perfect beverage pairing.

Nutritional Information for Parmesan Baked Cod

When it comes to nutrition, Parmesan Baked Cod is a healthy choice. Each serving provides lean protein and essential nutrients while remaining low in carbohydrates.

You can expect approximately:

Calories: 350 per serving
Protein: 30g
Fat: 20g (with optional butter)
Carbohydrates: 5g
Fiber: Less than 1g

Keep in mind that this dish can be a slightly indulgent option, especially with added butter, so feel free to adjust based on your dietary needs.

Storing Tips & Variations for Parmesan Baked Cod

If you happen to have leftovers or plan in advance, here are some tips:

Storing: Allow the baked cod to cool completely, then place it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep for up to 2 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the uncooked coated fish. Just assemble the cod with the cheese mixture, cover, and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, place the cod in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Healthier swaps: To cut calories, try using a combination of breadcrumbs and Parmesan for the crust or utilizing low-fat cheese.

Conclusion for Parmesan Baked Cod

Parmesan Baked Cod is not just a dish; it’s an experience that brings warmth, comfort, and delight to any dining table. With easy preparation and incredible flavor, it’s the perfect recipe for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. Don’t wait any longer—grab your ingredients and let this delicious dish transform your next meal! Your family and friends will thank you for it!

FAQs

Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?
Yes, frozen cod can be used, but make sure to thaw it fully before preparing. Pat it dry to ensure the coating adheres well.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan, try Pecorino Romano or a dairy-free cheese alternative.
How do I know when the cod is done cooking?
The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout.
Can I make the cheese mixture in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the Parmesan mixture a day ahead. Store it in a sealed container in the fridge until you’re ready to use it.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs if you choose to incorporate them in the crust.

Parmesan Baked Cod

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Author: eliana-quinn
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Carb

Print Recipe

Description

A delicious blend of fresh cod and crispy Parmesan cheese, this dish is easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 lemon (zest and juice)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 1/4 teaspoons paprika
3 tablespoons salted butter (optional: up to 5 tablespoons)
1 1/2 pounds fresh cod

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a greased baking sheet.
Combine Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, lemon zest, and chopped parsley in a mixing bowl.
Rinse the cod fillets and pat them very dry with paper towels.
Melt the salted butter in a microwave-safe bowl or small pan over low heat.
Dip each piece of cod in the melted butter, then coat it in the Parmesan mixture.
Arrange the coated fillets on the greased baking sheet and drizzle with any remaining butter.
Bake for about 15 minutes until the fish flakes easily and the crust is golden brown.
Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the cod just before serving.