Boston Baked Cod is a classic New England dish that’s both light and flavorful. Featuring tender cod fillets baked with a crispy panko topping, this dish is quick, easy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re preparing a simple weeknight dinner or hosting a gathering, this baked cod will be a hit at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Boston Baked Cod is incredibly easy to prepare, taking just 25 minutes from start to finish. The cod fillets come out perfectly cooked, with a tender interior and a crispy, golden topping. The fresh lemon zest and juice give the dish a bright, zesty flavor, while the panko breadcrumbs provide a satisfying crunch. Plus, it’s low in fat and full of protein, making it a healthy choice for any meal.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
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4 cod fillets (6 oz each), about 1 inch thick
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4 tablespoons butter
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1 cup panko breadcrumbs
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2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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Zest of 1 lemon
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2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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Butter for greasing the dish
Directions
Prepare the Oven and Dish:
1.Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Butter a 9×13 inch baking dish and set it aside.
Season the Cod:
2. Pat the cod fillets dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture (this helps ensure a crispy topping). Season both sides of the fish with salt and black pepper.
Make the Breadcrumb Topping:
3. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat until foaming, about 2 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the panko breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, garlic powder, and lemon zest. The mixture should resemble wet sand.
5. Evenly divide the breadcrumb mixture over the cod fillets, gently pressing to make sure the topping adheres.
Bake the Cod:
6. Drizzle the cod fillets with fresh lemon juice and olive oil.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the topping is golden brown.
Serve:
8. Let the cod rest for 2 minutes before serving.
Notes:
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The fish is done when its internal temperature reaches 145°F.
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Don’t skip drying the fish before baking, as excess moisture will prevent the topping from crisping up.
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For thicker fillets, you may need to increase the baking time by a few minutes.
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Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a 350°F oven to maintain texture.
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Freezing is not recommended, as the fish will become watery when thawed.
Nutrition (Per Serving)
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Calories: 320
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Sugar: 1g
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Sodium: 600mg
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Fat: 18g
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Saturated Fat: 9g
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Unsaturated Fat: 3g
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Carbohydrates: 19g
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Fiber: 1g
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Protein: 24g
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Cholesterol: 80mg
Conclusion
Boston Baked Cod is a perfect blend of tender fish and crispy panko topping, making it a flavorful and satisfying dish. With its light texture and fresh lemony notes, it’s ideal for anyone looking for a healthy, delicious meal. This recipe is simple, quick, and easy to make, yet impressive enough to serve at any occasion. Enjoy it with your favorite sides for a complete meal!
PrintBoston Baked Cod Recipe
Boston Baked Cod is a classic New England dish featuring tender cod fillets topped with a crispy panko breadcrumb coating. With a hint of lemon zest and a golden, flavorful crust, this dish is quick, healthy, and perfect for any occasion. Easy to make, light, and packed with flavor, Boston Baked Cod makes an ideal main course for any meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Method: Baking
Ingredients
For the Cod:
4 cod fillets (6 oz each), about 1 inch thick
4 tablespoons butter
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Zest of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and black pepper to taste
Butter for greasing the dish
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Dish:
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Butter a 9×13 inch baking dish and set it aside. - Season the Cod:
Pat the cod fillets dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. Season both sides with salt and black pepper. - Make the Breadcrumb Topping:
In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in the panko breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, garlic powder, and lemon zest. The mixture should resemble wet sand. Evenly distribute the breadcrumb mixture over the cod fillets, pressing lightly to ensure it sticks. - Bake the Cod:
Drizzle the cod fillets with fresh lemon juice and olive oil. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the topping is golden brown. - Serve:
Let the cod rest for 2 minutes before serving.
Notes
- The fish is done when its internal temperature reaches 145°F.
- Ensure you dry the fish before baking to prevent the topping from becoming soggy.
- For thicker fillets, increase the baking time by a few minutes.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days in the refrigerator. Reheat in a 350°F oven.
- Freezing is not recommended due to the risk of watery fish when thawed.