Print

Boston Baked Cod Recipe

4.6 from 71 reviews

Boston Baked Cod is a simple yet flavorful baked fish dish featuring tender cod fillets topped with a buttery, lemony panko breadcrumb crust. Perfectly baked in the oven, this recipe delivers a golden, crispy topping with fresh parsley and bright citrus notes making it a delightful, healthy seafood dinner option.

Ingredients

Scale

Fish and Seasonings

  • 4 cod fillets (6 oz each), about 1 inch thick
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Topping

  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Zest of 1 lemon

Finish and Baking

  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Butter for greasing dish

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F to ensure it’s at the right temperature for baking the cod evenly.
  2. Prepare Baking Dish: Butter a 9×13 inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking and add flavor.
  3. Season Cod: Pat the cod fillets completely dry with paper towels, then season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
  4. Arrange Fish: Place the seasoned fillets in the prepared baking dish, leaving space between each piece for even cooking.
  5. Make Topping: Melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a small saucepan over medium heat until foaming, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in panko breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, garlic powder, and lemon zest until the mixture looks like wet sand.
  6. Apply Topping: Divide the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of each cod fillet, pressing down gently so it adheres well.
  7. Add Finishing Touches: Drizzle the fish with fresh lemon juice and olive oil to enhance flavor and moisture.
  8. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the topping turns golden brown.
  9. Rest Before Serving: Remove from the oven and let the cod rest for 2 minutes to allow juices to redistribute before serving.

Notes

  • Use fresh cod fillets for the best texture and flavor.
  • Drying the fish before seasoning helps the topping stick better.
  • Adjust baking time depending on thickness of fillets to avoid overcooking.
  • For a crispier topping, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end, watching carefully to prevent burning.
  • This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables or a light salad.

Keywords: Boston baked cod, baked cod recipe, panko breadcrumb cod, lemon butter cod, seafood dinner