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Perfect Crispy Baked Cod (Restaurant-Quality at Home)

This crispy baked cod delivers a golden, crunchy crust with a tender, flaky interior — the perfect balance of healthy and indulgent. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a foolproof favorite for both weeknights and special occasions.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 280
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 fresh cod fillets approximately 1.5 pounds total
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs or gluten-free alternative
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese vegetarian-friendly option available
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley finely chopped
  • 1 lemon for zesting and juicing
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika regular paprika works too
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat and lightly grease it.
  2. Pat cod fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides lightly with salt and pepper.
  3. In a shallow bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, lemon zest, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Mix well.
  4. Drizzle olive oil over the breadcrumb mixture and mix until it resembles wet sand.
  5. Press each cod fillet firmly into the breadcrumb mixture, coating all sides evenly.
  6. Arrange coated fillets on the prepared baking sheet without touching.
  7. Bake for 15–20 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork (145°F / 63°C internal temperature).
  8. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top and let rest 2–3 minutes before serving.

Notes

For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free panko. To make it dairy-free, substitute nutritional yeast for Parmesan. Always pat the fish dry for the crispiest texture.