Introduction

This Crispy Parmesan Baked Cod is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines tender cod fillets with a crunchy, cheesy topping. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it’s both satisfying and elegant with just a few ingredients.

Crispy Parmesan Baked Cod Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

4 cod fillets (approximately 2 pounds)
35 butter crackers (such as Ritz or Club), crushed (about 1 ½ cups)
¼ cup Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons butter, melted
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Prepare a baking sheet by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Place the cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
Step 3: Crush the butter crackers by placing them in a zip lock bag and gently breaking them into crumbs using a rolling pin or your hands.
Step 4: In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers with Parmesan cheese, melted butter, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Step 5: Evenly spoon the cracker mixture over the top of each cod fillet, pressing lightly to adhere.
Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 25 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and the topping is golden and crispy.
Step 7: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley if desired before serving.

Tips & Variations

Use panko breadcrumbs instead of butter crackers for an extra crispy texture.
Add a pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika to the topping mixture for more flavor.
Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra fresh burst.
Try this topping on other white fish like haddock or tilapia for variety.

Storage

Store any leftover baked cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a low oven or microwave to maintain crispiness, though the topping may soften upon reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to thaw the cod completely and pat it dry before baking to ensure the topping adheres well and the fish cooks evenly.

What can I serve with crispy parmesan baked cod?

This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.

Crispy Parmesan Baked Cod Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 99 reviews

This Crispy Parmesan Baked Cod recipe delivers tender, flaky cod fillets topped with a crunchy, buttery parmesan cracker crust. Perfectly baked to a beautiful golden crisp, this easy and flavorful dish is ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests. The combination of buttery crackers, sharp parmesan cheese, and a hint of lemon makes each bite irresistible.

Author: Marco
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Fish

4 cod fillets, approx. 2 pounds

Crust Topping

35 butter crackers (e.g., Ritz or Club crackers), crushed (about 1 ½ cups crumbs)
¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
2 tablespoons butter, melted
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste

Garnish (Optional)

Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the cod evenly.
Prepare Baking Sheet: Grease a baking sheet lightly or line it with parchment paper to prevent the cod fillets from sticking and promote easy cleanup.
Crush Crackers: Place the butter crackers in a zip-top bag and crush them into fine crumbs using a rolling pin or similar tool to create the crust base.
Make Topping Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the crushed cracker crumbs with grated Parmesan cheese, melted butter, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to create a moist, flavorful crumb coating.
Coat Cod Fillets: Arrange the cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet, then evenly spoon and spread the cracker-parmesan mixture over the top of each fillet, pressing gently to adhere.
Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cod 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 baked cod from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.

Notes

Use fresh or thawed cod fillets for best results.
Ensure crackers are crushed finely for an even crust.
Adjust seasoning to your taste; you can add a pinch of garlic powder or paprika to the topping for extra flavor.
Check fish doneness by flaking with a fork; it should be opaque throughout.
This recipe pairs well with steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad.

Keywords: baked cod, crispy cod, parmesan crusted fish, easy fish recipe, baked seafood