Description
This Panko Parmesan Baked Cod recipe delivers a crispy, flavorful topping of panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs on tender, flaky cod fillets. Baked to perfection, it offers a simple yet elegant seafood dish that’s quick to prepare and perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crispy Topping:
- 3/4 cup (45 g) panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup (50 g) grated parmesan cheese
- 4 tablespoons (56 g) salted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon (14 g) salted butter, melted (for brushing, optional)
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
For the Fish:
- 1 pound (453 g) cod fillets
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and set aside.
- Mix Crispy Topping: In a medium bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated parmesan, softened butter, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, dried basil, chopped parsley, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix until all ingredients form a slightly moist, crumbly mixture.
- Pat Dry Cod Fillets: Using paper towels, pat the cod fillets dry to ensure they bake up flaky and the topping adheres well. Arrange the fillets evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
- Add Topping to Fish: Scoop and gently press the panko parmesan mixture onto the tops of the cod fillets. Distribute topping evenly, pressing gently to help it stick. Some topping spilling to the sides is acceptable.
- Bake the Cod: Place the baking sheet on the middle rack in the oven and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Brown the Topping: Move the baking sheet to the top rack and bake for an additional 1 minute to lightly brown and crisp the topping. Watch closely to avoid burning.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the tray from the oven and let the cod fillets rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and the topping to set. Serve warm with extra lemon wedges if desired.
Notes
- Patting the fish dry before topping is key for adhesion and flaky texture.
- If you prefer a less rich topping, reduce the amount of butter or mayonnaise slightly.
- For an extra touch of flavor, brush a little melted butter on the topping before the final broil step.
- Watch the final minute carefully while browning the topping to avoid burning.
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal.
