I remember the first time I made cod for dinner. The smell of the fish baking in the oven mixed with the fresh herbs filled my kitchen, making my mouth water. As I pulled it out of the oven, the golden crust looked so inviting. Fish often gets a bad rap for being boring, but this Easy Crispy Baked Cod Recipe brings it to life. It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for our busy weeknight dinners. You’ll feel like a chef in your own kitchen with this dish that’s loaded with flavor. What makes this recipe special is the fresh herb crust that adds a burst of taste and texture, turning simple cod fillets into a delightful meal.

Why Make This Recipe

Making this Easy Crispy Baked Cod is not just about the flavor; it’s about ease and comfort. The ingredients are simple and fresh, making it accessible for anyone, whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner. Plus, the preparation takes just a few minutes, allowing you to have a healthy dinner on the table without spending hours in the kitchen. The crispy herb crust adds a lovely contrast to the tender fish, creating a dish that is satisfying and elegant without much effort.

How to Make Easy Crispy Baked Cod

Ingredients

4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each / 170g each), fresh or thawed frozen
½ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves, stripped from stems
1 teaspoon lemon zest
¾ cup panko breadcrumbs (75g)
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt to taste (about ½ teaspoon kosher salt recommended)
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Optional: ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

Directions

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
In a mixing bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, parsley, thyme leaves, lemon zest, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if using. Pour in the melted butter and mix until the crumbs are shiny and evenly coated.
Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Place them skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle olive oil over the top and sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper.
Press the herb and breadcrumb mixture generously onto the top of each fillet, pressing firmly to make it stick.
Bake in the oven for 12-15 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
Optional: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fish right after baking. Serve immediately.

How to Serve Easy Crispy Baked Cod

This cod pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Serve it with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or a light pasta dish for a complete meal. A wedge of lemon on the side can brighten the flavors even more.

How to Store Easy Crispy Baked Cod

If you have leftovers, let the cod cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will be best eaten within two days. To reheat, place it back in the oven to maintain the crispy texture.

Tips to Make Easy Crispy Baked Cod

Make sure to dry the fish well before adding the herb crust. This helps it get crispy.
Feel free to adjust the herbs based on your taste. Dill or basil can also be nice alternatives.
If you want more crunch, consider adding finely chopped nuts to the breadcrumb mixture.

Variation

You can switch up the fish and use haddock or tilapia if you prefer. Both will work well with the herb crust.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen cod fillets?

A: Yes, you can use frozen cod fillets. Just make sure to thaw them completely before using.

Q: What should I serve with baked cod?

A: Baked cod goes well with rice, vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with a light sauce like tartar or a simple lemon butter sauce.

Q: How can I make the crust spicier?

A: You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce into the breadcrumb mixture for some heat.