Description

Cod with Buttered Breadcrumbs is a comforting baked seafood dish made with tender cod fillets and a golden, savory topping. The mild flavor of cod pairs beautifully with buttery breadcrumbs, cheese, lemon, and gentle spices. This recipe is simple to prepare yet delivers restaurant style results, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or relaxed family meals.

Ingredients

Fresh cod fillets or loins, cleaned and patted dry

Plain breadcrumbs such as Progresso Plain Breadcrumbs, 4C Plain Breadcrumbs, or Ian’s Plain Breadcrumbs

Freshly grated Cabot Parmesan or Tillamook Parmesan

Freshly grated Cabot Romano or BelGioioso Romano

Apple cider vinegar or vegetable broth

Fresh lemon juice plus lemon wedges for serving

Extra virgin olive oil

Fresh parsley, finely chopped

Garlic powder

Paprika

Salted butter, cut into small pieces

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven and prepare a sheet pan with foil and cooking spray

2. Rinse the cod fillets, check carefully for any bones, and pat completely dry

3. Cut the fish into even portions and arrange them on the prepared pan

4. Grate the cheeses if needed and finely chop the parsley

5. Combine breadcrumbs, cheeses, apple cider vinegar or broth, lemon juice, olive oil, parsley, garlic powder, and paprika in a mixing bowl

6. Mix gently until the breadcrumbs are evenly moistened and slightly clumpy

7. Spoon the breadcrumb mixture generously over each piece of cod

8. Press the topping lightly so it adheres while staying fluffy

9. Place small pieces of butter evenly over the breadcrumb topping

10. Sprinkle lightly with additional paprika for color

11. Bake until the topping is golden and the fish flakes easily

12. Remove from the oven and allow the fish to rest briefly

13. Finish with fresh lemon juice and serve warm

Notes

Drying the cod thoroughly before baking helps the breadcrumb topping stay crisp

Fresh cod offers the best texture, but thawed frozen cod works well if excess moisture is removed

Do not overbake, as cod cooks quickly and can dry out

The breadcrumb mixture can be prepared ahead and stored refrigerated until ready to use

For even browning, bake the fish on the center rack of the oven

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American