Are you craving a seafood dish that's both incredibly delicious and ridiculously easy to make? Look no further than this mouthwatering Easy Parmesan Baked Cod that will transform your dinner from boring to extraordinary! Imagine crispy, golden-crusted cod fillets with a perfect blend of cheesy, buttery goodness that melts in your mouth - and the best part? You'll have this gourmet meal on the table faster than you can order takeout!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your cod will cook evenly and develop a nice golden crust.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent the fish from sticking.
- In a medium bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, melted butter, and lemon juice. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly combined and the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Season the cod fillets with salt and pepper to taste. Place the seasoned fillets on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced out evenly.
- Evenly distribute the Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture over the top of each cod fillet, pressing down gently to ensure it adheres well.
- Once all the fillets are coated, place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- For an extra crispy topping, you can broil the cod for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of the baking time. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
- Once cooked, remove the cod from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful dish.
- Serve the Easy Parmesan Baked Cod with your choice of sides, such as steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Tips
- Choose Fresh Fish: Always select fresh, high-quality cod fillets for the best flavor and texture.
- Pat Dry Before Seasoning: Use paper towels to remove excess moisture from the fish, which helps the Parmesan crust adhere better.
- Even Coating is Key: When applying the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, press gently to ensure it sticks uniformly to the fish.
- Watch Closely When Broiling: The final broiling step can quickly go from perfectly crisp to burnt, so keep a close eye on your fish.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the cod to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps retain its moisture and makes it more tender.
- Customize Your Crust: Feel free to add dried herbs like thyme or parsley to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed hot and fresh out of the oven to maintain its crispy texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 85mg
