Baked Cod With Breadcrumbs Recipe

As you prepare to make baked cod with breadcrumbs, you’ll need to gather a few key ingredients and tools. You’ll require fresh cod fillets, breadcrumbs, butter, lemon juice, and seasonings. A baking dish and parchment paper are essential for proper cooking. It’s important to understand the best temperature and cooking time to achieve a perfectly flaky texture while maintaining a crispy exterior. The preparation process involves several steps, including coating the fish and creating the right breadcrumb mixture. However, there’s more to this seemingly simple dish than meets the eye, and mastering it requires attention to detail and technique.

Ingredients and Preparation

Baked Cod with Lemon Butter Sauce

This classic seafood dish combines the delicate flavor of cod with a crispy golden crust and a zesty lemon butter sauce. Baked cod is a versatile and healthy option that’s both easy to prepare and impressive to serve. The breadcrumb coating adds a satisfying crunch, while the tangy lemon butter sauce complements the mild, flaky fish perfectly. This dish is popular in many coastal regions and is a great way to introduce more fish into your diet.

Ingredients

• 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
• 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
3. In a shallow dish, combine breadcrumbs, 1 tablespoon parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush each fillet with melted butter, then dredge in the seasoned breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Arrange the coated fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Drizzle any remaining melted butter over the fillets.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the fish flakes easily and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
8. While the fish is baking, prepare the lemon butter sauce by combining 2 tablespoons melted butter, lemon juice, and the remaining parsley.
9. Remove the cod from the oven and let it rest for 2-3 minutes.
10. Drizzle the lemon butter sauce over the fillets and serve with lemon wedges.

Top Tips

1. Choose thick, evenly sized cod fillets for consistent cooking.
2. For extra crunch, add a tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb mixture.
3. Don’t overcook the cod – it should be just opaque and flake easily.
4. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
5. For a healthier option, use olive oil instead of butter in the coating.
6. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Variations

1. Herb-crusted: Add dried herbs like thyme or dill to the breadcrumb mixture.
2. Spicy: Incorporate cayenne pepper or paprika into the coating for a kick.
3. Gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed nuts as a coating.
4. Mediterranean: Top with chopped olives, capers, and tomatoes before serving.
5. Cajun: Replace the garlic powder with Cajun seasoning for a Southern twist.
6. Asian-inspired: Use panko breadcrumbs and serve with a soy-ginger dipping sauce.

Nutritional Guide

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Servings	4
Calories	320
Fat	14g
Carbohydrates	15g
Protein	32g

This baked cod dish is a nutritious choice, high in protein and low in carbohydrates. Cod is an excellent source of lean protein and contains vitamins B12 and B6, as well as omega-3 fatty acids. The lemon in the sauce provides vitamin C, while the breadcrumb coating adds some fiber to the meal. For a lower-calorie option, reduce the amount of butter used or substitute with olive oil.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Frozen Cod for This Recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen cod. Guarantee proper defrosting using refrigeration or cold water methods. While fresh cod may offer better texture and flavor, frozen cod can still yield satisfactory results when properly prepared and seasoned before baking.

How Long Does Leftover Baked Cod Stay Fresh in the Refrigerator?

Properly stored in an airtight container, your leftover cod has a shelf life of 3-4 days in the refrigerator. For best reheating, use an oven at 350°F. Consider recipe variations like fish tacos or salads to repurpose leftovers.

What Side Dishes Pair Well With Baked Cod?

You’ll find light white wines pair best with cod. Consider Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. For creative vegetable options, try roasted fennel, sautéed zucchini ribbons, or a citrus-infused coleslaw to complement the fish’s delicate flavor.

Is It Possible to Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?

You can make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumb alternatives. Try crushed gluten-free crackers, almond flour, or ground pork rinds. Alternatively, you can use quinoa flakes or finely chopped nuts for a crunchy, gluten-free coating.

Can I Prepare the Breadcrumb Mixture in Advance?

You can certainly make the breadcrumb mixture ahead. Prepare it up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This time-saving step streamlines your baked cod preparation process markedly.

Can I Use the Same Breadcrumb Topping from Baked Cod on Pork Chops?

Yes, you can use the same breadcrumb topping from baked cod on pork chops for added texture and flavor. To elevate the dish, consider pairing it with savory sides like pork chops with apples and onions, which add a sweet and tangy contrast to the crispy breadcrumb topping.

Before You Go

You’ve now mastered the art of baked cod with breadcrumbs. This dish’s simplicity belies its versatility and potential for customization.

You can experiment with various seasonings, herbs, or even cheese to create unique flavor profiles. Remember, the key to success lies in proper temperature control and timing.

Don’t overcook the cod; it should remain moist and flaky. With practice, you’ll perfect this technique, ensuring a consistently delicious and nutritious meal every time.