Description
Enjoy a deliciously easy Boston Baked Cod recipe featuring tender cod fillets topped with a crispy, flavorful panko breadcrumb crust. This dish combines simple ingredients like butter, parsley, garlic powder, and lemon zest to create a delightful meal ready in just 25 minutes, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy, impressive entrée.
Ingredients
Scale
Fish and Seasoning
- 4 fillets Cod (Fresh is preferred, can use thawed frozen)
- to taste Salt (Essential for seasoning)
- to taste Pepper (Essential for seasoning)
Crispy Coating
- 2 tablespoons Butter (Can replace with olive oil for dairy-free)
- 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs (Use crushed cornflakes or almond flour for gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons Parsley (Can substitute with thyme)
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Or use finely minced fresh garlic)
- 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest (Lime zest can be used as a twist)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking the fish evenly and perfectly crisping the topping.
- Prepare the Breadcrumb Mixture. In a small bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, chopped parsley, garlic powder, and lemon zest until all ingredients are well combined, forming a flavorful, moist topping.
- Season the Cod Fillets. Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels, then season both sides generously with salt and pepper to enhance the natural flavors of the fish.
- Apply the Topping. Place the seasoned cod fillets on a greased baking sheet or in a baking dish. Evenly distribute the breadcrumb mixture on top of each fillet, pressing lightly so it adheres well.
- Bake the Cod. Bake the fillets in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the topping is golden brown and crispy.
- Serve. Remove from the oven and serve immediately, pairing with your favorite sides like steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- For a dairy-free option, substitute butter with olive oil.
- Use crushed cornflakes or almond flour as a gluten-free alternative to panko breadcrumbs.
- Fresh parsley can be swapped with thyme for a different herbal note.
- Replace garlic powder with freshly minced garlic for a stronger garlic flavor.
- Lemon zest can be substituted with lime zest for a citrus twist.
- Ensure not to overcook the cod to keep it tender and flaky.
