Thanks to the use of a little melted butter, this Parmesan Crusted Cod comes out super flaky, with the crispiest golden topping. Plus, it's ready in just 25 minutes!
2tablespoonsfinely chopped fresh parsleyplus more for serving
¾teaspoonlemon zestplus lemon wedges for serving
¾teaspoonsalt
½teaspoonblack pepper
½teaspoonpaprika
2tablespoonssalted buttermelted
4(5-ounce)cod filets
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Instructions
Preheat the oven to 425°F. Lightly spray a large baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
In a medium bowl, mix together the Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic, parsley, lemon zest, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Pour in the melted butter and mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
½ cup grated parmesan cheese, ½ cup panko breadcrumbs, 2 garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley, ¾ teaspoon lemon zest, ¾ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, ½ teaspoon paprika, 2 tablespoons salted butter
Pat the cod filets dry and then place in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle ¼ cup of the breadcrumb mixture over each filet, pressing gently to help it adhere. Some crumbs may fall to the bottom of the pan, which is fine.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fish, or until the crust is golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges and extra parsley, if desired.
Notes
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts best and gives the topping a richer texture, but pre-packaged grated cheese can be used, if needed. Just avoid the powdered kind, as it won’t melt properly.
Cod: Use fresh or frozen cod filets, but be sure to fully thaw and pat them dry before baking to prevent excess moisture.
Breadcrumbs: Panko gives the best crunch, but regular breadcrumbs can also work.
Even Crispier Crust: For a more golden, crispy topping, place the fish under the broiler for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking.
Alternative Fish Options: This recipe works well with other white fish like halibut, haddock, or tilapia—just adjust the cooking time based on thickness.