Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a quick and delicious weeknight meal, Garlic Parmesan Crusted Cod is sure to impress. The combination of tender cod, savory garlic, and crispy parmesan crust is a winning dish that everyone will enjoy!

With its simple yet elegant flavors, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or a meal prep option for the week ahead.

It pairs beautifully with a light salad, roasted vegetables, or your favorite side dishes, making it a versatile and wholesome option for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love Garlic Parmesan Crusted Cod

🧄 Savory and Garlic-Infused
The garlic and parmesan crust gives the cod a deliciously savory, umami-packed flavor that enhances the natural sweetness of the fish. The garlic provides a punch of boldness, while the parmesan adds a rich, nutty taste to every bite.

🐟 Light and Lean Protein
Cod is a lean fish that’s rich in high-quality protein, making it a perfect choice for a healthy, satisfying meal. It’s low in calories, high in omega-3 fatty acids, and packed with essential nutrients that contribute to heart health and overall well-being.

🧀 Crispy and Flavorful Crust
The garlic parmesan crust on the cod is the star of this dish. As it bakes, the crust becomes golden brown and crispy, giving each bite a satisfying crunch that pairs perfectly with the delicate fish underneath.

🥗 Healthy and Nutritious
This dish is not only packed with protein but also provides essential nutrients like vitamins A, D, and B12, which are important for immune function, skin health, and energy production. Paired with your favorite side dishes, it makes for a well-rounded, healthy meal.

Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Crusted Cod

Here’s what you’ll need to create this simple yet flavorful dish:

For the Garlic Parmesan Crust:

4 cod fillets (about 4-6 oz each)
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tbsp melted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

For the Cod Fillets:

4 cod fillets (skinless)
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions for Garlic Parmesan Crusted Cod

1️⃣ Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your cod fillets bake evenly and get that perfect crispy crust.

2️⃣ Prepare the Cod Fillets
Place the cod fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Drizzle the fillets with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper on both sides. The olive oil helps the fish stay moist and adds flavor.

3️⃣ Make the Garlic Parmesan Crust
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, grated parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until the crust mixture is evenly combined. The panko breadcrumbs will add a nice crunch to the crust.

4️⃣ Coat the Cod Fillets
Generously spread the garlic parmesan mixture over the top of each cod fillet, pressing gently to adhere the crust to the fish. Make sure the entire top of each fillet is covered with a thick, even layer of the garlic parmesan mixture.

5️⃣ Bake the Cod
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cod for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature of the fish should reach 145°F (63°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.

6️⃣ Serve and Enjoy
Once the cod is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving. Plate the garlic parmesan crusted cod with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, a light salad, or steamed rice. Garnish with extra fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice for added freshness.

Tips for the Perfect Garlic Parmesan Crusted Cod

🧄 Use Fresh Garlic
For the best flavor, use freshly minced garlic. It will infuse the crust with a vibrant, bold taste that enhances the fish.

🧀 Grate Your Own Parmesan
While pre-grated parmesan is convenient, freshly grated parmesan has a richer, creamier texture and flavor that will elevate the crust.

🔥 Watch the Baking Time
Cod is a delicate fish, and overbaking can lead to a dry texture. Keep an eye on the fish as it bakes, and remove it from the oven as soon as it’s golden and cooked through.

🍽 Pairing Ideas
Garlic Parmesan Crusted Cod pairs well with a variety of side dishes. For a light and healthy meal, serve it with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad. For a more hearty meal, consider pairing it with mashed potatoes, quinoa, or brown rice.