This Baked Parmesan Crusted Cod with Garlic Butter is sure to impress your family and guests with its rich flavors and crispy texture. It’s a simple yet elegant meal that delivers restaurant-quality results in the comfort of your own home.

Looking for a delicious seafood dish that’s crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor? Baked Parmesan Crusted Cod with Garlic Butter is the perfect recipe to satisfy your cravings. This dish features flaky cod fillets coated in a golden, cheesy crust and topped with rich garlic butter that enhances every bite.

Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or a special meal for guests, this easy-to-make dish delivers restaurant-quality results at home. Let’s dive into why this recipe is a must-try for seafood lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

🧈 Rich and Flavorful
The combination of Parmesan crust and garlic butter creates a mouthwatering flavor profile. The buttery sauce adds richness, while the cheesy crust provides a satisfying crunch.

🐟 Healthy and Nutritious
Cod is a low-fat, high-protein fish that’s rich in vitamins and minerals like B12 and omega-3 fatty acids. It’s a healthy option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.

🍽 Easy to Make
With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights. The oven does most of the work, leaving you with minimal prep and cleanup.

💡 Kid-Friendly
Even picky eaters will love the crispy, cheesy coating on the cod. It’s a great way to introduce more fish into your family’s meals.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Preheat Your Oven
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

2️⃣ Prepare the Parmesan Crust
In a bowl, combine Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well. Add olive oil and stir until the mixture resembles wet sand. This will help the crust stick to the cod and create a golden-brown finish.

3️⃣ Coat the Cod Fillets
Pat the cod fillets dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. Place the fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Spoon the Parmesan mixture over each fillet, pressing gently to ensure it sticks.

4️⃣ Bake the Cod
Place the cod fillets in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).

5️⃣ Prepare the Garlic Butter
While the cod is baking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice and chopped parsley.

6️⃣ Drizzle the Garlic Butter
Once the cod is done, remove it from the oven. Drizzle the garlic butter over each fillet, allowing it to soak into the crust for an extra burst of flavor.

7️⃣ Serve and Enjoy
Plate the cod fillets alongside your favorite sides, such as steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. Garnish with additional parsley and lemon wedges for a vibrant presentation.

Variations

🌶️ Spicy Parmesan Cod
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the Parmesan mixture for a spicy kick.

🍋 Lemon-Herb Crust
Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme, dill, or basil into the crust for a more herbaceous flavor profile. You can also add extra lemon zest to the crust mixture for a tangier taste.

🧄 Garlic-Lover’s Version
For those who love garlic, increase the amount in both the crust and the garlic butter. Roasted garlic can also be used for a sweeter, more mellow garlic flavor.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different type of fish?
A: Absolutely! This recipe works well with other white fish like haddock, halibut, or tilapia. Just adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the fillets.

Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, you can substitute the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs to make the dish gluten-free.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: While the cod is best served fresh, you can prepare the Parmesan mixture and garlic butter in advance. Store them separately and assemble just before baking.

Q: How do I know when the cod is fully cooked?
A: The cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork, and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). The crust should be golden brown.

How to Serve

Baked Parmesan Crusted Cod with Garlic Butter is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some serving suggestions:

🍚 Rice or Quinoa – Serve the cod over a bed of rice or quinoa for a hearty, satisfying meal.

🥦 Steamed Vegetables – Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus make excellent vegetable sides that complement the flavors of the cod.

🥗 Fresh Salad – A light green salad with a lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.

🍋 Lemon Wedges – Serve with extra lemon wedges for a bright, citrusy finish.