Crispy Baked Herb-Crusted Cod with Creamy Garlic Sauce

There’s something undeniably satisfying about a piece of perfectly cooked white fish, especially when it’s coated in a golden, herb-packed crust. This Crispy Baked Herb-Crusted Cod delivers on texture and flavor without requiring complicated techniques or frying. The panko breadcrumb coating ensures a crisp, delicate crunch, while fresh parsley, dill, and lemon zest bring out the natural sweetness of the fish.

Baking the cod instead of pan-frying keeps things light and healthy while still achieving that desirable crispy exterior. It’s an excellent choice for a weeknight dinner when you want something flavorful yet easy to prepare. Pair it with roasted new potatoes and steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal that feels both satisfying and nutritious.

To make this dish even more indulgent, a simple creamy garlic sauce is the perfect complement. The rich, velvety sauce is made with butter, garlic, cream, and Parmesan cheese, adding just the right amount of decadence without overpowering the delicate fish. Whether you drizzle it over the cod or serve it as a dipping sauce, it elevates the dish to restaurant-quality status right in your own kitchen.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

For the Herb-Crusted Cod:

4 cod filets (about 6 oz each)
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons olive oil
Zest of 1 lemon
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
1 garlic clove, minced
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 egg, beaten

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

2 tablespoons butter
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon lemon juice (optional)

For Serving:

Roasted new potatoes
Steamed spring vegetables (such as asparagus, carrots, or peas)

How to Make It

1. Prepare the Cod:

Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Prepare the Herb Crust – In a medium bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, lemon zest, parsley, dill, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Drizzle in the olive oil and mix well to ensure the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.

Coat the Cod – Pat the cod filets dry with a paper towel. Dip each piece first into the beaten egg, making sure to coat it completely, then press it into the breadcrumb mixture, gently pressing to adhere. Make sure both sides are evenly coated.

2. Bake the Cod:

Arrange on the Baking Sheet – Place the coated filets on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them for even cooking.

Bake Until Golden – Transfer the tray to the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the crust is crisp and golden. If you want an extra crispy top, broil for the last 1-2 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

3. Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

Sauté the Garlic – In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and add the minced garlic. Stir frequently, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Add the Cream and Cheese – Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly, and bring it to a gentle simmer. Add the grated Parmesan, salt, and black pepper, whisking continuously until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.

Finish the Sauce – Remove from heat and stir in a squeeze of lemon juice for added brightness, if desired. Let the sauce sit for a minute to thicken slightly before serving.

4. Serve the Dish:

Plate the Cod – Serve the crispy herb-crusted cod alongside roasted new potatoes and steamed spring vegetables.

Drizzle or Dip – Either drizzle the warm creamy garlic sauce over the fish or serve it in a small dish for dipping. Enjoy immediately.

Tips & Tricks for Success

Use fresh herbs for the best flavor, but dried herbs can work in a pinch (reduce the quantity by half).
Panko breadcrumbs give the crispiest texture, but regular breadcrumbs will work if lightly toasted before use.
Check the fish at 12 minutes—cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork. Overcooking will make it dry.
For extra crunch, spray the breadcrumb coating lightly with oil before baking.
Make it gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes as a substitute.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep.
Healthy and Light – Baked, not fried, with wholesome ingredients.
Crispy and Flavorful – The golden breadcrumb crust adds great texture.
Restaurant-Quality – The creamy garlic sauce makes it extra special.
Versatile – Works with different fish varieties like halibut or tilapia.

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