Easy Parmesan Crusted Cod Recipe: Dinner in a Flash

Parmesan crusted cod refines ordinary fish into a culinary masterpiece that sings with rustic elegance.

Seafood enthusiasts appreciate this dish for its remarkable ability to elevate a humble protein with minimal effort.

Maritime flavors merge seamlessly with nutty, aged cheese and crisp breadcrumb coating.

Smart home cooks recognize how strategic seasoning can dramatically enhance delicate fish textures.

Mediterranean-inspired techniques bring restaurant-quality results directly to your kitchen with surprising ease.

Light yet substantial, this recipe promises a delightful balance between crisp exterior and tender interior.

The magic happens when carefully selected ingredients dance together in perfect harmony.

Parmesan Crusted Cod: Crispy and Full of Flavor

• Elevate Seafood Simplicity: Transform ordinary cod into a gourmet meal with just a few pantry ingredients, creating restaurant-quality dinner in under 20 minutes.
• Flavor-Packed Protein Punch: Parmesan coating delivers a spicy, cheesy crunch that makes each bite intensely delicious, while providing a whopping 38g of lean protein per serving.
• Quick Weeknight Winner: Minimal prep and fast cooking time make this recipe perfect for busy families seeking a nutritious, exciting meal that doesn't compromise on taste or texture.

Must-Have Ingredients for Parmesan Crusted Cod

• Cod Fillets: Fresh, mild-flavored white fish that has a delicate texture and absorbs seasonings well. Wild-caught or sustainably sourced cod recommended for best quality.

• Parmesan Cheese: Hard, salty cheese that creates a crispy golden crust. Freshly grated works best for maximum flavor and texture.
• Garlic Powder, Onion Powder: Provides depth and savory background notes to the coating. Look for pure, single-ingredient spices without additives.
• Smoked Paprika, Red Pepper Flakes: Adds warmth, subtle smokiness, and gentle heat to the dish. Choose high-quality, fresh spices for robust flavor.

• Egg: Helps the Parmesan mixture adhere to the fish. Fresh, large eggs work perfectly for creating a smooth coating.

• Lemon Wedges: Bright, acidic element that enhances the fishs flavor and cuts through richness.
• Tartar Sauce: Creamy condiment that complements the crispy fish coating.

How to Achieve the Perfect Parmesan Crusted Cod

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Crank your oven to 425°F and grab a baking sheet. Line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Egg Wash

Crack an egg into a shallow dish and whisk it until smooth and well blended.

Step 3: Create the Crispy Coating

• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Smoked paprika
• Red pepper flakes

Mix these ingredients thoroughly to create a flavorful crust.

Step 4: Dredge the Cod

Dip each cod fillet into the egg wash, ensuring it’s completely coated. Then press the fillet into the Parmesan mixture, making sure it’s evenly covered with the seasoned coating.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Carefully place the coated cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Slide the sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. The fish is ready when it turns golden brown and flakes easily with a fork.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the crispy Parmesan-crusted cod to serving plates. Garnish with fresh lemon wedges or serve alongside tangy tartar sauce for an extra burst of flavor.

Tips for Cooking the Crispiest Parmesan Crusted Cod

• Select Fresh Fish: Choose high-quality, firm cod fillets with a clean, ocean-like smell for the best texture and flavor.
• Pat Dry Thoroughly: Use paper towels to remove excess moisture from cod, ensuring a crispy Parmesan crust that adheres perfectly.
• Even Coating Technique: Gently press the Parmesan mixture into the fish, creating a uniform layer that will brown beautifully.
• Temperature Precision: Watch carefully during baking to prevent overcooking; cod should be opaque and flake easily with a fork.
• Serve Immediately: Enjoy the cod right after baking to maintain the crisp crust and preserve the delicate, tender texture of the fish.

How to Keep Parmesan Crusted Cod Fresh and Tasty

• Refrigerate: Store leftover cod in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Place fish in a shallow container to maintain texture and prevent moisture buildup. Refrigerated cod stays fresh for 1-2 days.
• Freezing: Wrap individual cod portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen cod maintains quality for up to 3 months. Label the bag with the date to track storage time.
• Reheating: Warm cod gently in a preheated oven at 275°F for 10-15 minutes. Avoid using the microwave, which can make the fish tough and dry. Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the fish before reheating to help retain moisture and prevent sticking.

Best Pairings to Enjoy with Parmesan Crusted Cod

• Crisp and Zesty Wine Companion: Pair this Parmesan crusted cod with a chilled sauvignon blanc, whose bright acidity cuts through the rich, cheesy crust and complements the delicate fish perfectly.
• Bright Citrus Side Kick: Serve alongside a fresh lemon-herb quinoa salad, which echoes the lemon wedge garnish and adds a light, nutritious component to balance the crispy fish.
• Mediterranean-Inspired Veggie Partner: Roast some colorful Mediterranean vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes with olive oil and herbs, creating a vibrant and flavorful accompaniment that matches the cod's spiced coating.
• Cool Creamy Dipping Delight: Whip up a quick garlic aioli or herbed Greek yogurt sauce to provide a cool, tangy contrast to the warm, crispy Parmesan crust, enhancing each bite with creamy richness.

Creative Variations of Parmesan Crusted Cod

• Mediterranean Herb Cod: Replace Parmesan with a blend of breadcrumbs, dried oregano, thyme, and basil for a zesty Mediterranean-inspired crust.
• Coconut Crispy Cod: Swap Parmesan with shredded coconut and add a touch of curry powder for a tropical flavor profile that brings crunch and sweetness.
• Spicy Cajun Cod: Intensify the spice level by using Cajun seasoning instead of individual spices, adding cayenne pepper for extra heat and southern flair.
• Almond-Crusted Cod: Grind almonds finely and mix with Parmesan for a nutty, protein-rich coating that adds texture and rich, earthy undertones to the fish.

Parmesan Crusted Cod Recipe

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4.7 from 26 reviews

• Total Time: 22 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Mediterranean magic meets seafood perfection in this Parmesan Crusted Cod. Crispy golden exterior gives way to delicate, flaky fish that melts in your mouth, inviting coastal flavors to dance across your palate.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 4 cod fillets (about 5 ounces / 142 grams each)

Cheese and Coating:

• ½ cup (50 grams) grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg, beaten

Seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Lemon wedges, for serving

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease the surface to prevent sticking.
2. Crack a fresh egg into a shallow, wide bowl and whisk thoroughly until smooth and slightly frothy.
3. Combine grated Parmesan cheese, ground garlic powder, granulated onion powder, smoky paprika, and crushed red pepper flakes in a separate shallow dish, mixing the spices and cheese evenly.
4. Pat cod fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the coating adhere better.
5. Carefully dip each cod fillet into the whisked egg, ensuring complete and even coverage on all sides.
6. Transfer the egg-coated fillet directly into the Parmesan spice mixture, gently pressing the coating onto the fish to create a uniform, crisp crust.
7. Arrange the crusted cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet, leaving slight space between each piece for even cooking.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the fish turns golden brown and flakes easily with a fork.
9. Remove from the oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the crust to set and the fish to finish cooking internally.
10. Garnish with fresh lemon wedges and serve immediately with optional tartar sauce or herb-infused aioli.

Notes

• Elevate your seafood game with this simple, crispy cod recipe that transforms a basic fish into a restaurant-worthy dish.
• Parmesan cheese creates a golden, crunchy exterior that locks in moisture and adds incredible flavor to the delicate fish.
• Choose fresh cod fillets with firm, white flesh for the best texture and most authentic taste experience.
• Customize the spice blend by adjusting red pepper flakes for more heat or adding dried herbs like thyme or oregano.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and reheated in the oven to maintain the crispy coating’s crunch.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Seafood
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 380 kcal
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 900mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: 38g
• Cholesterol: 150mg