Parmesan Crusted Cod

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Golden, flaky, and packed with rich umami flavor, Parmesan Crusted Cod is the weeknight dinner hero you didn’t know you needed. With a crispy cheese crust on the outside and juicy, flaky cod on the inside, this dish is all about contrast. The best part? It’s easy enough for a Monday night but impressive enough to serve to guests.

Cod is such a wonderfully mild fish, which makes it the perfect canvas for bold, savory toppings. The Parmesan crust not only adds a salty, nutty crunch but also locks in moisture, keeping the fish tender without drying out. Paired with a splash of lemon and a side of vegetables, this dinner is satisfying, wholesome, and sure to disappear fast.

Why You’ll Love This Parmesan Crusted Cod

If you’re looking for something that feels indulgent but is still light and nourishing, this dish checks every box. It’s low in carbs, packed with protein, and ready in under 30 minutes. The crisp crust delivers that restaurant-quality texture while being completely oven-baked, so there’s no need to fry. It’s a family favorite that even picky eaters tend to devour.

What Kind of Cod Should I Use?

Fresh cod fillets are always ideal for texture and flavor, but frozen cod works great too—just make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before baking. Look for thicker fillets if possible, so they hold up well under the Parmesan coating and bake evenly. Atlantic and Pacific cod are both good choices depending on availability in your area.

Ingredients for the Parmesan Crusted Cod

This recipe uses pantry-friendly ingredients to deliver big flavor. Each one plays a part in creating that crispy, cheesy, irresistible crust.

• Cod fillets
• Parmesan cheese
• Panko breadcrumbs
• Garlic powder
• Paprika
• Salt and pepper
• Egg
• Olive oil spray
• Lemon wedges

The cod fillets are the main attraction, offering a light, flaky base that holds up beautifully under the crust. Parmesan cheese brings a sharp, savory punch and crisps up in the oven. Panko breadcrumbs help build that airy crunch you can’t resist. Garlic powder and paprika boost the flavor with warm spice and depth. Salt and pepper enhance every bite. The egg helps the crust adhere perfectly, and olive oil spray encourages even browning. Finish with lemon wedges for a zesty pop that brightens the whole dish.

How To Make the Parmesan Crusted Cod

Step 1: Prep the Cod

Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Pat your cod fillets dry with paper towels to help the coating stick better.

Step 2: Create the Crust Mixture

In a shallow bowl, combine Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, beat the egg.

Step 3: Coat the Fillets

Dip each fillet into the egg, letting the excess drip off, then press it firmly into the Parmesan mixture, coating both sides well. Place each piece on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden

Lightly spray the tops of the fillets with olive oil spray. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork.

Step 5: Serve It Up

Serve warm with fresh lemon wedges and your favorite sides. Enjoy that first crispy bite!

How to Serve and Store Parmesan Crusted Cod

This recipe feeds about 4 people and is best served fresh out of the oven while the crust is at its crispiest. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, use a toaster oven or air fryer to revive the crunch—microwaving will make the crust soggy.

Freezing isn’t ideal, as the crust tends to lose texture, but if you must, wrap individual fillets tightly in foil and freeze for up to one month.

What to Serve With Parmesan Crusted Cod?

Lemon Garlic Green Beans

These bright, garlicky beans add a punch of freshness that cuts through the richness of the crust.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes

A soft, buttery base balances the crispiness of the cod and makes for a hearty meal.

Roasted Carrots and Parsnips

Naturally sweet and caramelized, they make a cozy, fall-friendly side.

Caesar Salad

Crisp romaine with tangy Caesar dressing and croutons offers a crunchy contrast to the fish.

Herbed Rice Pilaf

A simple rice side with parsley or dill ties in well with the light lemony notes of the fish.

Garlic Butter Asparagus

Savory and tender asparagus complements the cod with minimal effort.

Oven-Roasted Brussels Sprouts

A great option for something earthy and nutty that plays off the Parmesan.

Crusty Bread with Olive Oil

Perfect for soaking up lemony juices and making it feel like a complete dinner.

Want More Seafood Dinner Ideas?

If this Parmesan Crusted Cod has you craving more oven-baked or seafood favorites, check out these other delicious options:

• Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole for a comforting seafood bake with serious flavor.
• Honey Garlic Butter Baked Salmon for something sweet and savory.
• Creamy Garlic Marry Me Salmon if you’re in the mood for bold flavors and creamy texture.
• Cheesy Brussels Sprout Bake for a veggie-forward side that works with any fish dish.
• Creamy Broccoli Pasta as a creamy side or main to pair with seafood.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use fresh cod or frozen? Did you sneak in extra herbs?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook better and eat happier.

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