Name: Boston Baked Cod Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cod fillets (6 oz each), about 1 inch thick; Salt and black pepper to taste; Butter for greasing dish; 4 tablespoons butter; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Zest of 1 lemon; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 2 tablespoons olive oil

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Introduction

Boston Baked Cod is a flavorful and easy-to-make seafood dish featuring tender cod fillets topped with a zesty, crispy breadcrumb crust. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion when you want something light yet satisfying.

The image shows four pieces of white fish fillets arranged in two rows on a white rectangular plate placed on a white marbled surface. Each fish piece has a thick crispy golden-brown crust on top, made of seasoned breadcrumbs with small dark toasted spots, giving a crunchy texture. Green chopped herbs are sprinkled generously over the crust and around the fish on the plate, adding a fresh contrast. The inside of the fish is white and flaky, visible on some edges, showing a soft texture under the crunchy top layer. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 cod fillets (6 oz each), about 1 inch thick
4 tablespoons butter
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Zest of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and black pepper to taste
Butter for greasing dish

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Butter a 9×13 inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Pat the cod fillets completely dry with paper towels, then season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
Step 3: Arrange the cod fillets in the prepared baking dish, leaving space between each piece for even cooking.
Step 4: In a small saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat until it starts foaming, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat immediately.
Step 5: Stir in the panko breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, garlic powder, and lemon zest into the melted butter until the mixture looks like wet sand.
Step 6: Evenly divide the breadcrumb mixture over the top of each cod fillet, pressing gently to help it adhere.
Step 7: Drizzle fresh lemon juice and olive oil over the breadcrumb topping for added flavor and moisture.
Step 8: Bake the cod in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the topping turns golden brown.
Step 9: Remove from the oven and allow the fish to rest for 2 minutes before serving to let the flavors settle.

Tips & Variations

For extra crunch, add a tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb mixture.
Swap out fresh parsley for dill or basil for a different herb flavor.
If you prefer a spicier kick, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes into the breadcrumb topping.
Serve with steamed vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal.

Storage

Store any leftover baked cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently in a low oven (around 300°F) for 10-15 minutes to keep the topping crisp. Avoid microwaving as it can make the crust soggy.

How to Serve

Three pieces of white fish fillets are arranged in a row on a white rectangular plate placed on a white marbled surface. Each fillet is topped with a golden brown and slightly crispy breadcrumb crust mixed with green herbs, giving a textured and colorful appearance. Around the back edge of the plate, there are fresh yellow lemon wedges evenly spaced, adding a bright contrast. A light drizzle of herb oil with visible green herb bits pools around the base of the fillets, enhancing the fresh and savory look. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of fish for this recipe?

Yes, this method works well with other firm white fish such as haddock, halibut, or sole. Adjust baking time slightly based on thickness.

How do I know when the cod is fully cooked?

The cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork and appears opaque throughout. Baking 12-15 minutes typically achieves this for 1-inch thick fillets.