Description
This Panko Parmesan Baked Cod recipe features tender, flaky cod fillets topped with a flavorful, crispy mixture of panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs. Baked to perfection, this dish offers a delightful combination of textures and zesty lemon notes, making it an easy and elegant meal for seafood lovers.
Ingredients
Scale
Topping Ingredients
- 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
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
Main Ingredient
- 1 pound (453 g) cod fillets
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and set aside.
- Prepare Topping Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, softened butter, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, dried basil, chopped parsley, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix well until a slightly moist, crumbly mixture forms.
- Dry Cod Fillets: Using paper towels, pat the cod fillets dry to ensure they bake flaky and the topping adheres properly. Place the fillets evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
- Apply Topping: Scoop and gently press the panko parmesan mixture onto the tops of the cod fillets. Evenly distribute and press gently to help the topping stick. It’s fine if some mixture falls to the sides.
- Bake Initially: Place the baking sheet on the middle rack of the oven and bake for 10 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Crisp 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 prevent burning.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the tray from the oven and let the cod fillets rest for 5-10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute and the topping to set. Serve warm with extra lemon wedges if desired.
Notes
- Patting the fish dry is crucial for a crispy topping.
- Watch carefully during the final minute to avoid burning the breadcrumb topping.
- Serve with lemon wedges for an extra fresh citrus flavor.
- Use fresh parsley for best flavor; dried can be substituted but fresh is preferred.
- Mayonnaise adds moisture and helps bind the topping but can be omitted if desired.
