Baked Panko Cod

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Baked Panko Cod is a light, crispy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick, healthy dinner. The tender, flaky cod is coated in crunchy panko breadcrumbs and baked until golden—no frying needed. It’s simple, satisfying, and pairs beautifully with fresh lemon and your favorite sides.

ingredients

this Recipe

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

cod fillets (fresh or thawed)panko breadcrumbsParmesan cheese (optional, grated)olive oil or melted buttergarlic powderpaprikasaltblack pepperDijon mustard (or mayonnaise)lemon wedgesfresh parsley (for garnish)

directions

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease.

Pat cod fillets dry with paper towels.

In a bowl, mix panko, Parmesan (if using), garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Brush each cod fillet with Dijon mustard or mayo to help the coating stick.

Press the panko mixture onto the tops of the fillets to form an even crust.

Drizzle lightly with olive oil or melted butter.

Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork, and the topping is golden.

Serve with lemon wedges and sprinkle with fresh parsley.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesBaking time: 12–15 minutesTotal time: 25 minutes

Variations

Use crushed cornflakes or Ritz crackers instead of panko.

Add lemon zest to the breadcrumb mix for brightness.

Swap cod for haddock, tilapia, or halibut.

Spice it up with cayenne or red pepper flakes.

Top with a dollop of tartar sauce or a drizzle of garlic aioli.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.Reheat in a 350°F oven for 8–10 minutes to keep the crust crisp. Avoid microwaving to maintain texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cod?

Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before baking.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free panko for a GF version.

Can I air fry it?

Yes, cook at 400°F for 8–10 minutes until golden and cooked through.

Do I need to flip the fish?

No, bake it crust-side up without flipping for best results.

What sides go well?

Try roasted vegetables, rice, salad, or mashed potatoes.

Is cod a good fish for baking?

Yes, it’s mild, tender, and holds up well in the oven.

Can I skip the mustard?

Yes, use mayo or even olive oil as a binder instead.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, omit Parmesan and use oil instead of butter.

How do I know cod is done?

It should flake easily and reach an internal temp of 145°F.

What can I serve on top?

Tartar sauce, lemon butter, or a fresh herb vinaigrette all work well.

Conclusion

Baked Panko Cod is a quick, delicious way to enjoy flaky white fish with a crispy, golden crust—no frying required. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, this dish is a weeknight win that’s light, flavorful, and sure to impress.

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