Easy Baked Herb-Crusted Cod

There’s something incredibly satisfying about pulling a perfectly cooked piece of fish from the oven—the way the golden crust crackles under your fork while the interior remains impossibly tender. This Easy Baked Herb-Crusted Cod transforms simple ingredients into an elegant meal that feels restaurant-worthy yet requires minimal effort. The fragrant herb topping creates a crisp, flavorful crust that locks in moisture, resulting in flaky, delicate fish every time—perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions when you want to impress without stress.

I discovered this recipe during a seaside vacation when I was determined to recreate the incredible fish we’d enjoyed at a tiny coastal bistro. After several experiments, this version emerged as our family favorite—so much so that my kids now request “the fancy fish” every Friday. What began as a vacation-inspired experiment has become our most cherished seafood tradition, complete with stories about that magical trip by the ocean. Even my fish-skeptic uncle couldn’t resist seconds when I served it at last summer’s reunion, declaring it “the only cod recipe he’d ever enjoy.”

What makes this dish truly exceptional is its versatility. For quick dinners, I pair it with simple roasted vegetables. When entertaining, I elevate it with lemon beurre blanc and asparagus spears. My daughter loves when I pack the leftovers in her lunchbox with a yogurt-dill sauce for dipping. And on those rare evenings when I’m cooking just for myself? A single fillet with a crisp white wine transforms my kitchen into a personal bistro. This recipe proves that gourmet-quality seafood doesn’t require special skills—just quality ingredients and a love for delicious, uncomplicated food.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Baked Herb-Crusted Cod
Selling Points:

• Restaurant Quality at Home: Impressive presentation with minimal effort
• Perfect Texture Every Time: Moist, flaky fish with crispy golden topping
• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 25 minutes start to finish
• Healthy & Light: Packed with protein and omega-3s

What You Need for Easy Baked Herb-Crusted Cod
Ingredients:

For the Cod:

• 4 (6 oz) cod fillets, about 1-inch thick
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Herb Crust:

• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 2 tbsp melted butter
• 1/2 tsp paprika

For Serving (Optional):

• Lemon wedges
• Extra fresh herbs
• Tartar sauce or aioli

How to Make Easy Baked Herb-Crusted Cod

1. Prep the Fish: Pat cod fillets dry and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
2. Make the Crust: In a bowl, combine panko, Parmesan, parsley, dill, lemon zest, garlic, melted butter, and paprika until well mixed.
3. Add the Topping: Press about 2 tablespoons of the herb mixture onto the top of each cod fillet, creating an even layer.
4. Bake: Place in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 12-15 minutes until the fish flakes easily and the crust is golden.
5. Serve: Garnish with lemon wedges and additional fresh herbs if desired.

Tips for Perfect Herb-Crusted Cod

• Dry the Fish Well: Ensures the crust adheres properly
• Even Thickness: Choose fillets of similar size for even cooking
• Fresh Herbs Matter: They provide the best flavor
• Don’t Overcook: Fish continues cooking after removal from oven
• Broil Option: For extra crispy topping, broil last 1-2 minutes

Substitutions and Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed pork rinds
• Different Fish: Works great with haddock or halibut
• Extra Zest: Add orange zest along with lemon
• Spicy Version: Include 1/4 tsp cayenne in crust mixture
• Nutty Crunch: Add 2 tbsp chopped almonds to topping

Make a Healthier Version

• Less Butter: Substitute olive oil for melted butter
• Lower Sodium: Reduce or omit added salt
• Whole Grain: Use whole wheat panko
• Extra Lean: Skip the Parmesan or use nutritional yeast

Closing for Easy Baked Herb-Crusted Cod
This Easy Baked Herb-Crusted Cod is more than just a simple fish recipe—it’s proof that elegant, delicious meals don’t require hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just treating yourself to a nutritious weeknight dinner, this dish delivers restaurant-quality results with home-cooked ease. Don’t forget to let us know how your cod turns out, and consider checking out our other seafood recipes for more inspiration. Happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions for Easy Baked Herb-Crusted Cod

1. Can I use frozen cod fillets?
   Yes, thaw completely and pat very dry before using.
2. How do I know when the cod is done?
   It should flake easily with a fork (145°F internal temp).
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
   Prep the crust mixture up to 1 day ahead.
4. What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
   Use 1 tsp each dried parsley and dill (add to breadcrumbs).
5. Is this gluten-free?
   Only if using gluten-free breadcrumbs.
6. Can I use other types of fish?
   Yes, any mild white fish works well.
7. How should I store leftovers?
   In airtight container in fridge for up to 2 days.
8. Can I freeze this dish?
   Best fresh, but cooked fish freezes for 1 month.
9. What sides pair well?
   Try roasted potatoes, rice pilaf, or steamed veggies.
10. Can I cook this in an air fryer?
    Yes! 375°F for 10-12 minutes works well.

This Easy Baked Herb-Crusted Cod recipe shows how simple ingredients can create something truly special. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just trying to eat healthier, this dish is sure to become a regular in your rotation. So preheat your oven, grab some fresh cod, and get ready for a meal that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Happy cooking!

Easy Baked Herb-Crusted Cod

Recipe by Alexandra SaricolCourse: All Recipes

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Ingredients

• For the Cod:

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

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/4 tsp black pepper

• For the Herb Crust:

• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

• 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill

• 1 tsp lemon zest

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• 2 tbsp melted butter

• 1/2 tsp paprika

• For Serving (Optional):

• Lemon wedges

• Extra fresh herbs

• Tartar sauce or aioli

Directions

• Prep the Fish: Pat cod fillets dry and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
• Make the Crust: In a bowl, combine panko, Parmesan, parsley, dill, lemon zest, garlic, melted butter, and paprika until well mixed.
• Add the Topping: Press about 2 tablespoons of the herb mixture onto the top of each cod fillet, creating an even layer.
• Bake: Place in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 12-15 minutes until the fish flakes easily and the crust is golden.
• Serve: Garnish with lemon wedges and additional fresh herbs if desired.