Skip to content

Crunchy Baked Cod

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn

*Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. I may earn a small commission for my endorsement, recommendation, testimonial, and/or link to any products or services from this website. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. See my privacy statement for details.

This Crunchy Baked Cod is quick, easy to prepare, and full of flavor. With a buttery panko topping, a simple blend of seasonings, and a quick bake time, this cod recipe comes together effortlessly for a satisfying weeknight dinner. Serve this baked fish with a squeeze of fresh lemon for a bright, fresh finish.

A crunchy baked cod filet laying on a black sheet pan. The cod has a golden crust.

Why You Should Make This Crunchy Baked Cod

  • Crispy, golden topping – Panko breadcrumbs create the perfect crunch without deep frying, giving the cod a deliciously crispy texture.
  • Quick and easy – This baked cod recipe takes just minutes to prepare and bakes in under 15 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
  • Simple ingredients, big flavor – A combination of butter, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika enhances the natural mild flavor of the cod.
  • Healthy and satisfying – Baked, not fried, this cod is a great high-protein, low-carb meal option.
  • Versatile serving options – Pair this crispy baked cod with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Ingredients

  • Cod: Can substitute with haddock, pollock, or halibut.
  • Seasonings: Easily substitute with smoked paprika for extra depth, sea salt or kosher salt, white pepper instead of black, and/or granulated garlic for garlic powder. Lemon pepper is also a great substitute.
  • Butter: Can use olive oil or melted ghee.
  • Panko Breadcrumbs: Substitute with regular breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or almond flour for a low-carb option.
  • Fresh Parsley: Swap with fresh cilantro, chives, or dill.

How to Prepare Crunchy Baked Cod

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Pat the cod dry with paper towels.
  3. In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Season both sides of the cod.
  4. Melt the butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Stir in the panko breadcrumbs and fresh parsley until the mixture is evenly coated.
  5. Place the cod on a lined baking sheet and pack the breadcrumb mixture on top of each fillet, pressing gently to adhere.
  6. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the fish is flaky and cooked through.
  7. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges.

How to Serve and Store Leftovers

Serve this Crunchy Baked Cod with:

  • Vegetables – Roasted asparagus, sautéed green beans, mashed cauliflower, and/or a fresh garden salad compliment the crispy fish.
  • Grains – Serve with rice pilaf, quinoa, or couscous for a balanced meal.
  • Potatoes – Try mashed potatoes, roasted baby potatoes, or even crispy French fries.
  • Sauces – A drizzle of lemon butter sauce, homemade tartar sauce, or a light garlic aioli adds extra flavor.

Leftovers:

  • Refrigerate – Store leftover cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  • Reheat – Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8-10 minutes to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the breadcrumbs soggy.
  • Freeze – While possible, freezing is not recommended as the crispy topping may lose its texture.

More Cod Recipes to Love

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
A white plate trimmed in blue holding two pieces of crunchy baked cod, creamed Brussels sprouts and two lemon wedges.

Crunchy Baked Cod


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Description

This Crunchy Baked Cod with a buttery panko topping comes together effortlessly, for a satisfying weeknight dinner.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½2 pounds cod
  • 2 teaspoons paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, plus more for garnish
  • Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Pat the cod dry with paper towels.
  3. In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Season both sides of the cod.
  4. Melt the butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Stir in the panko breadcrumbs and fresh parsley until the mixture is evenly coated.
  5. Place the cod on a lined baking sheet and pack the breadcrumb mixture on top of each fillet, pressing gently to adhere.
  6. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the fish is flaky and cooked through.
  7. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges.
  8. ENJOY!

Notes

  • Easily substitute the cod with your favorite white fish.
  • Pat the fish dry prior to seasoning.
  • Be sure to season both sides of the cod.
  • Easily cut the cod filet into individual portions prior to baking. Baking time will vary.
  • If you are not using a non-stick baking sheet, place the cod on parchment paper.
  • Try not to over bake the fish.
  • Serve with mashed potatoes, rice or a side salad.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Easy
  • Cuisine: Seafood

GET TO KNOW ME!

A photo of me in a black floral dress cooking at the stovetop at Williams-Sonoma

my Family (my Hubby and my Fur Babies). My Husband (aka my “Kitchen Bitch”) means the world to me. He’s pretty damn cool too. Not only is he one of the nicest guys you will ever meet, he also has had a lengthy career in professional hockey. Not only winning two Stanley Cups with the Pittsburgh Penguins in the early ’90’s, but most recently winning the Calder Cup with the Charlotte Checkers, amongst many other accolades. If you live in Charlotte and play hockey, or have a family member who plays, be sure to contact him!

Our life has changed dramatically in the past few years with the passing of our two goldendoodles, Vegas and Viva. We were lucky enough to have Vegas for five years (totally wish it was longer). Most recently, losing our Viva to a brain tumor in July of 2020. We welcomed our mini goldendoodle 7, almost seven years ago. We just added the amazing Hazel! Of course, I am always posting tons and tons of photos! Be sure to check out my recipe for Pet Bone Broth! This broth is super rich in nutrients and will provide your pet with a multitude of health benefits!

In addition, I’m so very excited to announce I have published my first e-book and paperback, “Mastering Thanksgiving – A Guide to Perfecting Your Thanksgiving Dinner.” Your support would mean the world to me.

Let’s Get Social!

Be sure to follow me on social media! I’m always talking food, fashion, and family! I also love sharing some of my favorite Amazon Finds too. Click here to check out my Amazon page! FacebookInstagramTikTokX, Pinterest and YouTube! Check out my LTK to find out what I’m wearing! THANK YOU!

More to Plate...

A white soup crock overflowing with Creole Chicken Pot Pie. The top crust of the pot pie is a baked, browned biscuit crust. There is a wooden spoon in the individual pie showing the inside contents. The bowl is sitting on a small wooden board.

Creole Chicken Pot Pie

Creole Chicken Pot Pie is the ultimate comfort food, packed with bold flavors and a rich, creamy filling. This hearty dish brings

A crunchy baked cod filet laying on a black sheet pan. The cod has a golden crust.

Crunchy Baked Cod

This Crunchy Baked Cod is quick, easy to prepare, and full of flavor. With a buttery panko topping, a simple blend of

A copycat La Scala salad in a wooden bowl. The salad is tossed and contains chopped lettuce, strips of salami, white beans, sliced red onion and is topped with grated white cheese.

Copycat La Scala Salad

This Copycat La Scala Salad brings the signature flavors of the famous Beverly Hills dish right to your kitchen, but with a

No comment yet, add your voice below!


Leave a Reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.