Baked Cod With Panko

Name: Baked Cod With Panko
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 24 min
Cuisine: Seafood
Ingredients: 2 (6 ounces each) cod fillets; Juice of ¼ lemon; ¼ teaspoon kosher salt, divided; 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil; 2 garlic cloves, minced; ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs; 1 ½ teaspoons dried crushed rosemary; ¼ teaspoon ground pepper; ¼ teaspoon paprika

Recipe By:

Martha

Posted:

February 22, 2025

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Baked Cod With Panko is a fantastic dish that’s not only simple to whip up but also brings a burst of flavor to your table. If you’re like many cooking enthusiasts, you appreciate meals that taste great without taking all evening to prepare. This recipe checks all the boxes: it’s quick, healthy, and delightfully crispy thanks to that amazing panko topping. Imagine a tender piece of cod, perfectly baked, with a crunch from the breadcrumb mix that makes each bite satisfying.

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Why You’ll Love This Baked Cod With Panko
What is a Baked Cod With Panko
Ingredients for Baked Cod With Panko
Preparing the Baked Cod With Panko
Preheat the Oven
Prepare the Cod Fillets
Sauté the Garlic
Mix the Panko Coating
Apply the Breadcrumb Mixture
Bake the Cod
Serving Suggestions
Tips for Success
Variations
Storage Tips
Pairing Ideas
FAQs
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What’s great is that you don’t need to be a cooking pro to make this dish shine. With just a few ingredients, you can create a beautiful meal that impresses family and friends alike. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy dinner at home or hosting a gathering, Baked Cod With Panko is a seafood lover’s dream come true. Let’s roll up our sleeves and get started!

Why You’ll Love This Baked Cod With Panko

When you taste Baked Cod With Panko, you’ll quickly find it’s a great addition to your recipe collection. First, it’s incredibly quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners when the clock is ticking. You still want a meal that feels satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

Furthermore, this dish balances healthiness with satisfaction. Cod is a light, flaky fish that’s packed with nutrients, and combined with the crunchy breadcrumb topping, it creates a delicious meal that fills you up without weighing you down.

And let’s talk about the texture! The crispy panko topping brings an irresistible crunch that makes each bite a little piece of heaven. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a delightful contrast in textures. Lastly, it’s a go-to choice for seafood lovers who appreciate flavorful yet simple dishes.

What is a Baked Cod With Panko

Baked Cod With Panko is a delicious seafood dish that highlights cod fish, typically seasoned and topped with panko breadcrumbs before baking. The origins of this dish trace back to Japan, where panko breadcrumbs were first created. Unlike regular breadcrumbs, panko is light and airy, giving dishes a unique crunch that enhances the overall eating experience.

In terms of nutrition, cod is a fantastic source of protein, low in calories, and rich in vitamins like B6 and B12. When combined with the healthy fats from olive oil and garlic, this dish becomes more than just tasty; it’s also nourishing.

Ingredients for Baked Cod With Panko

To make this dish, gather the following ingredients:

2 (6 ounces each) cod fillets
Juice of ¼ lemon
¼ teaspoon kosher salt, divided
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
¼ cup panko breadcrumbs
1 ½ teaspoons dried crushed rosemary
¼ teaspoon ground pepper
¼ teaspoon paprika

With these ingredients, you’re already on your way to making a delightful meal that’s sure to please.

Preparing the Baked Cod With Panko

Preheat the Oven

First things first, let’s preheat your oven to 425°F. While waiting, prepare your baking dish. A light coating of cooking spray will prevent the fish from sticking.

Prepare the Cod Fillets

Next, place the cod fillets in the prepared baking dish. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over them to add zing then sprinkle with ⅛ teaspoon of kosher salt. This simple step enhances the flavor of the cod beautifully.

Sauté the Garlic

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the extra virgin olive oil. Once it’s warm, toss in the minced garlic. Sauté it just until fragrant, which should take about a minute. You want that garlicky aroma filling your kitchen—it’s irresistible!

Mix the Panko Coating

Now, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the panko breadcrumbs, dried rosemary, ground pepper, and paprika. Mix everything well, ensuring the breadcrumbs are nicely coated in the flavorful oil and garlic mixture.

It’s time to bring the dish together! Generously top each cod fillet with half of the panko mixture. Be sure to press down slightly so it adheres well to the fish. This step is crucial for getting that crispy topping you’ll love.

Bake the Cod

Finally, pop the baking dish in your preheated oven. Bake until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork, which should take about 12 to 14 minutes. The timing can vary based on the thickness of your fillets, so keep an eye on them!

Serving Suggestions

When your Baked Cod With Panko is ready, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. The bright, vibrant colors of a salad enhance the dish’s appeal. For an extra touch of flavor, send a few lemon wedges to the table. A squeeze of lemon zest will elevate the dish’s taste and add a refreshing brightness.

Tips for Success

To get the best results, ensure your cod fillets are of similar thickness. This helps them cook evenly throughout. You can also play with the spices in the panko mixture. A dash of cayenne for heat or a sprinkle of lemon zest can provide exciting variations every time you make this dish.

Variations

Feel like switching things up? Consider swapping cod for other white fish such as haddock or tilapia. Both alternatives maintain the lightness that is the hallmark of this meal. If you’re after a creamier, richer flavor, try adding some grated Parmesan cheese to the panko mix. It’s a small twist that makes a big difference!

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers (which is rare because this dish is so good), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To keep that beloved crispy topping intact, reheat them in the oven rather than the microwave.

Pairing Ideas

To complement your Baked Cod With Panko, consider pairing it with a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc. Its crisp acidity balances the dish beautifully. For an even heartier meal, serve it with a side of quinoa or mixed grains. The nutty flavor of the grains plays well with the fish.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen cod fillets?
Yes, frozen fillets work great! Just be sure they’re completely thawed before cooking them. This ensures even baking throughout.

2. What if I don’t have panko breadcrumbs?
Regular breadcrumbs are an option, although they won’t give you the same level of crunch. Panko is preferred for that irresistible texture.

3. Is this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can easily make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free panko breadcrumbs.

4. How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
This recipe is already dairy-free. Just make sure all your ingredients are confirmed to be dairy-free.

5. Can I make the panko topping in advance?
Sure! The panko mixture can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container until you’re ready to cook.

Now that we’ve explored everything about this Baked Cod With Panko, it’s your turn to bring this dish to your kitchen. Happy cooking!

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