Baked Parmesan Crusted Cod is a simple yet delicious dish that features tender, flaky cod fillets topped with a flavorful Parmesan and butter crust. The combination of creamy mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, and seasonings creates a rich and savory coating that enhances the mild flavor of the cod. With a quick bake in the oven, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/8 teaspoon celery salt
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Arrange the cod fillets in a single layer on a greased baking dish.
- In a medium bowl, mix together Parmesan cheese, butter, mayonnaise, lemon juice, basil, pepper, onion powder, and celery salt until well combined.
- Spread the Parmesan mixture evenly over the top of each cod fillet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
Variations
- Herb Variation: Add a teaspoon of fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or dill to the Parmesan mixture for a burst of flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the topping for a little heat.
- Other Fish: This recipe can be used with other mild white fish such as tilapia or haddock.
- Gluten-Free Option: Make sure the mayonnaise and Parmesan cheese are gluten-free if needed, as some may contain gluten.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat the cod in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through, to help maintain its crisp crust.
10 FAQs
- Can I use frozen cod? Yes, you can use frozen cod fillets. Just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking for the best texture.
- Can I substitute mayonnaise with sour cream? Yes, sour cream can be used in place of mayonnaise for a tangier flavor.
- What should I serve with this dish? This cod pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, rice, or a simple salad.
- Can I use a different type of cheese? You can substitute Parmesan with another cheese, such as Romano or Asiago, for a slightly different flavor.
- How do I know when the cod is fully cooked? The fish should flake easily with a fork and appear opaque throughout.
- Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? You can prepare the Parmesan mixture and top the fillets ahead of time, then refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake.
- How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy? Make sure to bake the cod on a greased baking dish to help the crust stay crispy. Avoid covering the fish while baking.
- Can I make this recipe with another type of fish? Yes, you can substitute cod with other white fish such as halibut, tilapia, or haddock.
- What can I use instead of celery salt? If you don’t have celery salt, you can use regular salt with a pinch of celery seed.
- Can I grill the cod instead of baking it? While this recipe is designed for baking, you can grill the cod by placing the fillets on a greased grill pan, and cooking over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes per side.
Conclusion
Baked Parmesan Crusted Cod is a quick, easy, and flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy nights or casual gatherings. The creamy, cheesy topping enhances the delicate taste of the fish, making it a dish everyone will enjoy. With its minimal preparation and cook time, it’s a great option for a healthy yet indulgent meal that doesn’t require much effort.