Crispy Parmesan Crusted Cod

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If you love seafood with an irresistible crunch, Crispy Parmesan Crusted Cod is the ultimate recipe to try! Mild, tender white cod fillets are topped with a golden, savory crust made of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, crispy Panko breadcrumbs, garlic, and fresh lemon zest, then baked until shatteringly crisp. It delivers all the mouth-watering crunch of fried fish with the ease and lightness of a 20-minute oven bake!

Ingredients

For the Cod Fillets:

  • Cod: 4 fresh cod fillets (about 6 oz / 170g each).
  • Seasoning: ½ tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp paprika, ½ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp freshly cracked black pepper.
  • Dijon Mustard or Mayonnaise: 2 tbsp (used as a flavorful binder for the crust).

For the Golden Parmesan Crust:

  • Panko Breadcrumbs: ½ cup Japanese Panko breadcrumbs (for maximum crunch).
  • Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
  • Unsalted Butter: 3 tbsp melted.
  • Garlic: 2 cloves minced.
  • Lemon Zest: 1 tsp freshly grated lemon zest.
  • Fresh Parsley: 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley.
  • Garnish: Fresh lemon wedges for serving.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prep the Oven and Baking Sheet:
    • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a wire rack.
    • Pat the cod fillets completely dry with paper towels to ensure a crispy texture.
  2. Season and Coat the Fish:
    • Arrange the cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
    • Season both sides evenly with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
    • Spread a thin, even layer of Dijon mustard (or mayonnaise) over the top of each fillet.
  3. Make the Parmesan Panko Topping:
    • In a small bowl, mix together the Panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, melted butter, minced garlic, lemon zest, and chopped fresh parsley until combined and crumbly.
    • Press the breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the top of each fillet to create a thick, even crust.
  4. Bake to Golden Perfection:
    • Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, until the Parmesan crust is golden brown and crunchy and the cod flakes easily with a fork (internal temperature reaches 145°F / 63°C).
    • (Optional) Broil on HIGH for 1 to 2 minutes at the end for an extra crisp, golden top!
    • Remove from heat and serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges for squeezing.

Chef’s Tips for Success

  • Pat Fish Completely Dry: Removing excess moisture prevents the fish from steaming under the topping, guaranteeing a shatteringly crisp crust.
  • Use Panko Over Regular Breadcrumbs: Panko flakes are larger and lighter than standard breadcrumbs, giving you that signature airy crunch.
  • Serving Suggestions: Pair with roasted garlic baby potatoes, a crisp green salad, steamed asparagus, or classic tartar sauce.

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