Parmesan Crusted Cod is a quick, healthy, and flavorful weeknight dinner. Fresh cod fillets are topped with a crisp parmesan and panko crust, brightened with lemon zest and fresh parsley. This oven-baked recipe comes together with minimal prep and finishes in about 30 minutes—perfect for busy evenings.
Looking for more fish recipes? Check out my Parsley Parmesan Salmon.
Light, Healthy, & Delicious 30 Minute Dinner
I love recipes that are ready in under 30 minutes, especially ones that bake in the oven. While the cod cooks, you can tidy the kitchen and have dinner waiting. This parmesan-panko crusted cod takes only a few minutes of prep and about 10–12 minutes in the oven, plus a quick broil to crisp the topping.
The finished dish is golden, lemony, and perfectly seasoned. It’s a lean protein option that feels special but is simple enough for a weekday meal.
Ingredients
This parmesan-baked cod uses just a handful of everyday ingredients: fresh cod, panko for crunch, parmesan for savory depth, and lemon and parsley for brightness.
Ingredient Notes
- Cod Fillets: Use two 4–5 oz fresh fillets. White, flaky fish like cod works beautifully with this topping.
- Butter: 2 tablespoons of salted butter, melted, to help the crust adhere and add richness.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: 1/3 cup for a light, crispy texture. Regular breadcrumbs can be substituted if needed.
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/3 cup freshly grated parmesan yields the best flavor and texture.
- Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped, for a fresh herbal note.
- Lemon Zest: 1 teaspoon of zest adds bright citrus flavor; finish the dish with a squeeze of fresh lemon.
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon for savory depth.
- Salt & Pepper: Season the crust mixture to taste.
Kitchen Tools
Simple tools make this recipe easy: measuring cups and spoons, a small mixing bowl, a baking dish or sheet pan, and a grater for parmesan if using fresh cheese.
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Chef’s knife and cutting board
- Cheese grater (for fresh parmesan)
- Small and medium bowls for mixing
- Small baking dish or rimmed sheet pan
How To Make This Recipe
Panko parmesan cod is quick and straightforward. You can easily double the ingredients to serve more people.
Step By Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated parmesan, chopped parsley, garlic powder, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper.
Step 3: Place the cod fillets in a small baking dish or on a sheet pan. Pour the melted butter over the fillets and spread or brush to coat evenly.
Step 4: Press each butter-coated fillet into the breadcrumb mixture, coating the top, bottom, and sides. Return the fillets to the baking dish with the crusted side up.
Step 5: Drizzle a little olive oil over the crusts or spray with cooking spray to encourage browning and crispness.
Step 6: Bake for 10–12 minutes, then broil on high for 1–2 minutes until the crust is golden and crisp. Watch carefully while broiling to avoid burning.
Step 7: Serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges and enjoy.
Expert Tips
Pat dry the fillets: Use paper towels to remove surface moisture so the crust adheres.
Customize the seasoning: Add onion powder, red pepper flakes, or Italian seasoning if you like more flavor.
Use oil before baking: A light spray or drizzle of olive oil helps develop a golden, crunchy crust.
Monitor the broiler: Broiling quickly browns the crust—stay close to prevent burning.
Serve fresh: The crust is crispest right out of the oven.
How To Serve This Recipe
This parmesan crusted cod pairs well with many sides. Popular choices include roasted or sautéed vegetables, garlic parmesan potatoes, couscous salad, or a simple leafy green salad. Choose one or two sides to round out the meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. This topping works well with most white fish such as tilapia, haddock, or pollock. You can also try salmon, but cooking times may vary due to thickness and fat content.
Bake for about 10–12 minutes depending on fillet thickness. The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout. If using a thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
Store leftover cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1–2 days. Reheat gently in the oven to help maintain crispness.
Reheat in a 350–400°F oven for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Using the oven helps keep the crust crisp compared to a microwave.
Love this recipe? Check out some similar ones below…
Seafood Recipes
- Honey Garlic Salmon Bites
- Teriyaki Shrimp Stir Fry
- Baked Pesto Butter Salmon
- Baja Shrimp Taco Bowl
- Tuna Lettuce Wraps
- Sheet Pan Salmon with Broccoli & Potatoes
- Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp
- Parmesan Herb Crusted Salmon
- Baked Shrimp Oreganata
Easy Dinner Recipes
- Crusted Chicken Romano
- Ground Turkey Teriyaki Rice Bowls
- Easy Instant Pot Chicken Enchiladas
- Viral Grinder Salad Sandwich
- Greek Chicken Meatballs
- Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake
- Creamy Taco Soup
Connect With Me!
If you make this parmesan-crusted cod or any other recipe, I’d love to see your results—tag @wellnessbykay on Instagram so I can see and share your photos.
Love this recipe? Leave a comment and a rating—I appreciate your feedback and it helps me keep creating recipes for this blog.
Baked Parmesan Crusted Cod
5 from 15 reviews
- Author: Kayla Berman
- Prep Time: 10 Minutes
- Cook Time: 15 Minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 Servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
Description
Parmesan Crusted Cod is a quick, healthy, and flavorful dinner made with fresh cod fillets, parmesan, panko, and lemon zest. It’s a bright, light oven-baked meal ready in about 30 minutes—ideal for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 2 4-5 oz cod fillets
- 2 tbsp salted butter, melted
- 1/3 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- Olive oil or cooking spray
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Set the oven to 425 degrees.
- Combine breadcrumbs, parmesan, parsley, garlic powder, lemon zest, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Place fillets in a baking dish and pour melted butter over them to coat.
- Press the butter-coated fillets into the breadcrumb mixture, coating all sides, and return to the dish.
- Drizzle with olive oil or spray lightly with cooking spray to help the crust brown.
- Bake 10–12 minutes, then broil on high 1–2 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Serve with lemon wedges and enjoy.