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Boston Baked Cod: Crispy and Easy

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4.2 from 167 reviews

Enjoy the classic flavors of Boston Baked Cod with this easy-to-make recipe featuring tender, flaky cod fillets topped with a crispy, buttery panko breadcrumb crust enhanced by fresh lemon and parsley. Perfectly baked for a delicious, healthy dinner that's both light and satisfying.

Ingredients

Fish

  • 4 cod fillets (6 oz each), about 1 inch thick

Breadcrumb Topping

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

Seasoning & Oil

  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Additional

  • Butter for greasing dish

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with butter to prevent sticking and add a subtle richness to the cod.
  2. Prepare Breadcrumb Mixture: In a small bowl, melt the 4 tablespoons of butter. Combine the melted butter with panko breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, garlic powder, and lemon zest. Mix thoroughly until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated and fragrant.
  3. Prepare Cod Fillets: Pat dry the cod fillets with paper towels. Place the fillets in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle the olive oil and fresh lemon juice evenly over the fillets, then season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  4. Add Breadcrumb Topping: Carefully spoon and press the breadcrumb mixture over the top of each cod fillet, ensuring each is evenly covered to create a crispy crust once baked.
  5. Bake the Cod: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown and crisp.
  6. Serve: Remove the cod from the oven and let it rest for 2 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional fresh parsley or lemon wedges if desired. Serve hot with your choice of sides for a delicious meal.

Notes

  • Make sure the fillets are about 1 inch thick for even cooking and moist texture.
  • Panko breadcrumbs give an extra crispy texture compared to regular breadcrumbs.
  • You can substitute fresh parsley with dried parsley if needed, but use less as dried herbs are more potent.
  • If you prefer a dairy-free version, replace butter with olive oil in the breadcrumb mixture and for greasing.
  • Cooking time may vary depending on your oven and thickness of fillets; check cod doneness by its flakiness and opacity.