Name: Parmesan Crusted Cod
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 17 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cod fillets (about 5 ounces each); 1 large egg, beaten; ½ cup grated Parmesan; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes; Lemon for serving

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re looking for a meal that’s light on carbs but big on flavor, this Parmesan Crusted Cod is a fantastic choice. The fish remains tender and moist on the inside while the Parmesan crust provides a delightful crispy exterior. Plus, it only takes 17 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect weeknight dinner. The combination of seasonings like garlic, onion, and smoked paprika adds depth, while the option to serve it with tartar sauce or fresh lemon elevates the taste to another level.

Ingredients

4 cod fillets (about 5 ounces each)
1 large egg, beaten
½ cup grated Parmesan
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Lemon for serving

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and spray a baking sheet with non-stick spray.
In a shallow dish, place the beaten egg.
In a separate shallow dish, combine the grated Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Mix well using a fork.
Dip each cod fillet first into the egg, then coat it in the Parmesan seasoning mixture, pressing lightly to ensure an even coating.
Arrange the coated fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake the cod for 10-12 minutes, or until the fish easily flakes when tested with a fork.
Serve with lemon wedges or tartar sauce, if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 servings
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 12 minutes
Total time: 17 minutes

Variations

Add Herbs: For an extra pop of flavor, try adding finely chopped fresh parsley, dill, or thyme to the Parmesan mixture.
Cheese Swap: Substitute the Parmesan with a different cheese like Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
Spicy Kick: Increase the red pepper flakes to give the dish a little more heat.
Baking Options: If you prefer a crispier texture, broil the cod fillets for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: To retain the crispy coating, reheat the cod in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. You can also use an air fryer for the best results.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen cod. Just make sure to thaw the fillets completely before cooking.

2. Can I use shredded Parmesan instead of grated?

Yes, you can. Shredded Parmesan will give the coating a different texture, but it will still be delicious.

3. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Parmesan Crusted Cod is naturally gluten-free, as it doesn’t contain any bread crumbs.

4. Can I make this recipe in advance?

While the cod is best fresh, you can prepare the fillets by breading them ahead of time and then refrigerating them until you’re ready to bake.

5. What can I serve with this cod?

Serve this cod with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb meal.

6. Can I use a different type of fish?

Yes, you can substitute cod with other mild, white fish like tilapia, haddock, or halibut.

7. How can I tell when the cod is done?

The cod is done when it easily flakes with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

8. Can I use a different seasoning mix?

Feel free to customize the seasoning to your liking. Adding Italian seasoning, lemon zest, or even a dash of cayenne pepper can give it a unique twist.

9. Can I make this in an air fryer?

Yes, you can cook the Parmesan Crusted Cod in an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, for a crispy finish.

10. What is the nutritional information for this recipe?

Each serving (1 cod fillet) contains approximately 119 calories, 5g carbs, 14g protein, and 5g fat.

Conclusion

This Parmesan Crusted Cod is an easy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a light yet satisfying meal. It’s quick to prepare, customizable with different seasonings, and makes for a wonderful dinner option. Whether you’re following a low-carb diet or simply looking for a tasty way to enjoy fish, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.