Baked Cod With Lemon Crumbs

Name: Baked Cod With Lemon Crumbs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cod fillets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; Zest of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup melted butter; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Highlighted under: Creative Baking Collection

I absolutely love cooking fish, especially when it’s as simple yet elegant as baked cod with lemon crumbs. This recipe has become a staple for me because it's not only easy to prepare but also bursting with fresh flavors. The buttery breadcrumbs and zesty lemon perfectly complement the delicate cod, making it a delight for any occasion. In just a short amount of time, you can create a dish that feels special and tastes divine. My family enjoys it so much that I often serve it with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Created by

Elspeth Murray

Last updated on 2026-02-07T19:45:36.022Z

As I crafted this baked cod, I was reminded of summer evenings spent enjoying light yet satisfying meals. The combination of fresh lemon zest and buttery breadcrumbs elevates the cod to a new level of deliciousness. I always make it a point to buy the freshest fish, which makes an enormous difference in the final dish.

This recipe is foolproof, and one of the secrets I discovered is letting the cod marinate briefly with olive oil and lemon juice before baking. It truly enhances the overall flavor, creating a wonderfully moist fish that's packed with flavor!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
The bright citrus flavor from the lemon brings the dish to life.
A crunchy breadcrumb topping adds a delightful texture.
Quick and easy preparation makes this perfect for busy weeknights.

Understanding Cod as Your Star Ingredient

Cod is a mild-flavored white fish that cooks beautifully, making it an excellent choice for this dish. When selecting cod fillets, look for those that are firm and have a moist appearance. Fresh cod should smell like the ocean, not fishy. If you can, purchase sustainably sourced fish to not only enjoy better quality but also support ocean preservation. It's also possible to use frozen cod; just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before marinating to ensure the flavors penetrate well.

When cooking cod, timing is crucial. Overcooking can lead to a dry texture. Bake the cod until it flakes easily with a fork but is still moist, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes in a preheated oven. Keep an eye out for the flesh changing from translucent to opaque; this will help you gauge doneness. A meat thermometer should read 145°F (63°C) at the thickest part for safety.

Lemon Crumbs: The Secret to Flavor and Texture

The lemon crumbs topping elevates this baked cod with both flavor and texture. The combination of breadcrumbs and melted butter creates a crunch that contrasts beautifully with the flaky fish. For the breadcrumbs, panko works particularly well if you want an extra crispiness; however, standard breadcrumbs are perfectly acceptable. Mix in herbs such as dill or thyme for additional flavor, depending on your preference.

To make the topping even more zesty, consider adding lemon zest directly to the breadcrumbs mixture as well, enhancing that citrus profile with every bite. When baking, a good indicator that the topping is ready is when it turns a golden brown and sounds crispy when lightly tapped. If it browns too quickly in the oven, you can cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil until the fish is cooked to prevent burning.

Ingredients

For the Baked Cod

4 cod fillets
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Zest of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Lemon Crumbs

1 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup melted butter
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

Prepare the Cod

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a shallow dish, combine olive oil, lemon juice, zest, salt, and pepper. Add the cod fillets and let them marinate for about 10 minutes.

Make the Topping

In a bowl, mix together breadcrumbs, melted butter, parsley, and garlic powder until well combined.

Combine and Bake

Place the marinated cod in a baking dish and generously sprinkle the lemon breadcrumbs on top. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and the topping is golden brown.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an added touch, serve with a lemon wedge on the side for extra zest.

Making It Ahead

If you're short on time during the week, consider preparing the cod fillets and the breadcrumb mixture in advance. You can marinate the cod for up to 4 hours in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld. Just remember to cover the dish tightly to prevent any cross-contamination with other foods in your fridge.

For the breadcrumb topping, you can prepare it a day ahead and store it in an airtight container. Just wait to sprinkle it on until you're ready to bake the cod. This makes the final cooking process quick—perfect for busy evenings!

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover baked cod can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, the breadcrumb topping may lose its crunch during storage. To revive the texture, consider reheating the cod in an oven set to 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, uncovered, which will help crisp up the topping again.

Avoid reheating the cod in a microwave, as it tends to make the fish rubbery. Instead, if you have any extra lemon crumbs, feel free to add a fresh sprinkle before reheating to restore that delightful crunch!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of fish?

Yes, this recipe also works well with haddock or tilapia.

→ Is there a way to make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.

→ What can I serve with baked cod?

It pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.