### Irresistibly Delicious Baked Crusted Cod Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide to Perfecting Your Seafood Dish

When it comes to preparing a delightful seafood meal, nothing beats the charm of a well-cooked cod. The **baked crusted cod recipe** is not just another dis……

When it comes to preparing a delightful seafood meal, nothing beats the charm of a well-cooked cod. The **baked crusted cod recipe** is not just another dish; it’s an experience that tantalizes your taste buds and impresses your guests. This guide will walk you through the process of creating a perfectly baked cod with a crispy crust that you will want to make again and again.

#### Ingredients You'll Need for the Baked Crusted Cod Recipe

To create this mouthwatering dish, you'll need the following ingredients:

- **Fresh cod fillets**: 4 pieces, about 6 ounces each

- **Breadcrumbs**: 1 cup (preferably panko for extra crunch)

- **Parmesan cheese**: 1/2 cup, grated

- **Fresh parsley**: 2 tablespoons, finely chopped

- **Garlic powder**: 1 teaspoon

- **Onion powder**: 1 teaspoon

- **Paprika**: 1 teaspoon

- **Salt and pepper**: to taste

- **Olive oil**: 3 tablespoons

- **Lemon wedges**: for serving

#### Preparation Steps for the Baked Crusted Cod Recipe

1. **Preheat Your Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your cod cooks evenly and develops that delicious crust.

2. **Prepare the Baking Sheet**: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil. This prevents the fish from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

3. **Make the Crust Mixture**: In a mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Drizzle in the olive oil and mix until the breadcrumbs are well-coated and the mixture resembles wet sand.

4. **Prepare the Cod Fillets**: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy crust. Season both sides of the fillets with salt and pepper.

5. **Coat the Cod**: Place the cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Generously press the breadcrumb mixture onto the top of each fillet, ensuring an even coating.

6. **Bake the Cod**: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The crust should be golden brown and crispy.

7. **Serve and Enjoy**: Once done, remove the cod from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Serve with lemon wedges for an added zing.

#### Why You’ll Love This Baked Crusted Cod Recipe

This **baked crusted cod recipe** is not only simple to make, but it also delivers a restaurant-quality meal right at home. The combination of the flaky cod and the crunchy, flavorful crust creates a delightful texture that makes every bite enjoyable. Plus, it’s a healthy option for dinner, packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids.

#### Tips for the Perfect Baked Crusted Cod

- **Freshness Matters**: Always use fresh cod for the best flavor. If you can, buy it from a local fish market.

- **Customize Your Crust**: Feel free to add other herbs or spices to the breadcrumb mixture to suit your taste. Dill, thyme, or even a hint of cayenne can elevate the flavor.

- **Serve with Sides**: Pair your cod with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of rice for a complete meal.

In conclusion, this **baked crusted cod recipe** is a fantastic way to enjoy a classic seafood dish with a modern twist. Its simplicity and flavor make it a perfect choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Try it out, and you’ll see why it’s a favorite among seafood lovers!