Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each), skinless and boneless
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crispiness)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for added flavor)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or fresh parsley, chopped)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Ingredient Highlights
- Cod: Cod is a mild, flaky white fish that is perfect for this recipe. Its tender texture complements the crispy coating beautifully. It’s also a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: These Japanese-style breadcrumbs are larger and lighter than traditional breadcrumbs, giving the cod a crispier texture that’s perfect for baking.
- Parmesan Cheese: While optional, adding Parmesan gives the fish an extra layer of richness and flavor that pairs wonderfully with the mild cod.
- Olive Oil: Olive oil is used to help the breadcrumbs crisp up and provide a touch of healthy fats, adding flavor and moisture to the fish.
Instructions
Prepare the Cod Fillets:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent the fish from sticking.
- Prepare the Cod: Pat the cod fillets dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This ensures the coating will stick better and the fish will bake up crispy.
- Season the Fish: Lightly season the cod fillets with salt and pepper on both sides. You want the fish to have a base layer of seasoning before applying the breadcrumb mixture.
Prepare the Breadcrumb Coating:
- Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a shallow dish or bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and dried parsley.
- Add the Olive Oil: Drizzle the olive oil or melted butter over the breadcrumb mixture. Stir until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated, which helps them get crispy during baking.
Coat the Cod:
- Dip the Cod: Dip each seasoned cod fillet into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so the coating sticks to both sides of the fish. Make sure the fillets are fully coated for that delicious crunch.
- Place on the Baking Sheet: Arrange the breaded cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart so the air circulates around each piece, helping them bake evenly.
Bake the Cod:
- Bake in the Oven: Bake the cod fillets for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The breadcrumbs should turn a beautiful golden brown. The exact baking time may vary depending on the thickness of the fillets, so keep an eye on them.
- Check for Doneness: Insert a fork into the thickest part of the fillet. If it flakes easily, it’s done. If not, give it a few more minutes in the oven.
Serve:
- Serve with Lemon: Once baked, remove the fish from the oven and serve immediately. For an extra burst of flavor, serve with lemon wedges for a refreshing contrast to the crispy fish.
- Garnish: Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley or additional seasoning if desired. Serve with a side of your favorite vegetables, potatoes, or a fresh salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 22g