Crispy Baked Cod with Garlic Butter
Craving a quick and delicious fish dinner recipe? This Crispy Baked Cod with Garlic Butter delivers flaky perfection with minimal effort. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Cod Fillets: Choose fresh or frozen (thawed) cod. You can substitute with haddock or tilapia.
- Butter: Use unsalted butter for best control over flavor.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is best. Garlic powder can be used in a pinch, but reduce the amount.
- Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs create the crispiest coating. Regular breadcrumbs work too.
- Lemon: Fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 4 (6-ounce) cod fillets, fresh or thawed
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
Spices:
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories Per Serving: 280
- Tools Needed: Baking sheet, small bowl, brush
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Cod Fillets
Pat your cod fillets completely dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for crispy fish. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Make the Garlic Butter Mixture
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and lemon juice. Mix well until everything is incorporated.
3. Coat the Cod
Brush the top of each cod fillet with a generous amount of the garlic butter mixture. Sprinkle the panko breadcrumbs evenly over the buttered surface, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Season and Bake
Lightly drizzle a baking sheet with olive oil. Place the breaded cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle with paprika for color and a hint of warmth. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is flaky and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
5. Serve Immediately
Your crispy baked cod is best enjoyed hot, right out of the oven. Serve with your favorite side dishes for a complete fish dinner recipe.
Variation Ideas
- Add a pinch of dried oregano or dill to the garlic butter for an herbier flavor.
- Mix a tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese into the breadcrumbs for a cheesy crust.
- Spice it up with a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes in the breadcrumb mixture.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover crispy baked cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the cod on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-12 minutes, or until warmed through, to help maintain some crispiness. Avoid microwave reheating if you want to keep the texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use frozen cod?
A: Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it very dry before preparing.
Q: What if I don’t have panko breadcrumbs?
A: Regular breadcrumbs will work, but panko provides a noticeably crispier texture.
Q: How do I know when the cod is cooked through?
A: The cod will flake easily with a fork when it’s fully cooked. It should be opaque throughout.
Q: Can I prepare this ahead of time?
A: For best crispiness, it’s recommended to bake and serve immediately. You can prepare the garlic butter mixture in advance.
Q: What are good side dishes for this fish dinner recipe?
A: Steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, rice pilaf, or a simple green salad all pair wonderfully.
Q: Is this recipe good for meal prepping?
A: While delicious fresh, the crispiness will soften when stored. It’s best enjoyed right after baking for optimal texture.
