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Boston Baked Cod

Boston Baked Cod

5.1 from 10 reviews

Boston Baked Cod is a delicious and healthy seafood dish featuring tender cod fillets topped with a flavorful, golden panko breadcrumb crust infused with garlic, lemon, and fresh parsley. Baked to perfection, this recipe offers a crispy, buttery topping over moist, flaky fish, perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or special occasion meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Fish

  • 4 cod fillets (6 oz each), about 1 inch thick
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Butter for greasing dish

Topping

  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Zest of 1 lemon

Finishing

  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Butter a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking and add flavor.
  2. Season the Cod: Pat the cod fillets completely dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper to enhance the fish’s natural flavor.
  3. Arrange Fish: Place the cod fillets in the prepared baking dish, leaving some space between each piece for even cooking.
  4. Melt Butter: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until it starts foaming, about 2 minutes. This ensures the butter is hot and ready to mix with the breadcrumbs.
  5. Make Topping: Remove the melted butter from heat and stir in the panko breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, garlic powder, and lemon zest until the mixture resembles wet sand, holding together slightly.
  6. Top the Cod: Evenly divide the breadcrumb mixture over each cod fillet, pressing gently so it adheres well to the fish.
  7. Add Lemon and Oil: Drizzle the breadcrumb-topped cod with fresh lemon juice and olive oil to add moisture and brightness to the dish.
  8. Bake: Bake the cod in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown and crispy.
  9. Rest and Serve: Let the baked cod rest for 2 minutes after removing from the oven to allow the juices to settle. Serve warm for best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • For best results, use fresh cod fillets about 1 inch thick to ensure even cooking.
  • Patting the fish dry before seasoning helps the topping stick better and ensures a crispy crust.
  • Feel free to substitute panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
  • Adjust lemon juice amount to taste if you prefer a stronger citrus flavor.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; reheat gently to maintain crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked cod, Boston baked cod, seafood recipe, panko breadcrumb fish, lemon garlic cod, healthy fish recipe