Print

Crispy Parmesan Baked Cod Recipe

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.

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

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the cod evenly.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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