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; 1 cup breadcrumbs; Zest of 1 lemon; 2 tablespoons butter, melted; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Balanced Living Kitchen

I absolutely love making Baked Cod with Lemon Crumbs for its delightful blend of flavors and ease of preparation. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The crisp lemon crumb topping adds a zesty freshness that complements the tender fish perfectly. I enjoy serving it with a side of seasonal vegetables for a wholesome meal. Plus, it’s so simple that even novice cooks can impress their guests with this recipe. Give it a try—you won't be disappointed!

Created by

Rosie Mitchell

Last updated on 2026-02-08T08:25:35.867Z

During one of my busy weekdays, I decided to create a quick yet delicious dish using cod that I had in my freezer. Baked Cod with Lemon Crumbs turned out to be the perfect choice. The combination of butter, breadcrumbs, and fresh lemon zest created a flavorful crust that enhanced the natural taste of the fish. It was such a hit that I now make it regularly and have even experimented with different herbs!

What really makes this recipe shine is the simplicity of the preparation. I found that marinating the cod in a bit of lemon juice beforehand really elevated the taste. This method allows the fish to absorb the citrusy flavors, making every bite incredibly refreshing and satisfying. Trust me, it’s a must-try!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Deliciously crispy lemon crumb topping for a burst of flavor
Tender, flaky cod that melts in your mouth
Quick and easy preparation, perfect for any weeknight dinner

Understanding Cod

Cod is a wonderfully versatile fish with a mild flavor that pairs beautifully with a variety of ingredients. When selecting cod fillets, look for those that are fresh and have a clean, ocean-like smell. The flesh should be translucent and slightly firm to the touch. Fresh cod usually has a bright white color. If you can only find frozen cod, that's perfectly fine; just ensure it's completely thawed before preparing. This will enhance the texture and prevent excess moisture from affecting the crumb topping.

Cooking cod requires attention to timing and temperature to achieve that perfect flaky texture. The fish should be cooked until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for optimal doneness. If you find your cod slightly translucent in the center as it bakes, it’s generally a sign that it needs just a few more minutes. Removing it from the oven too early can lead to a rubbery texture, which is often the downfall of many home cooks.

The Lemon Crumb Topping

The lemon crumb topping is what elevates this baked cod dish, adding a refreshing zing. The acidity from lemon zest brightens the flavors of the fish, while the breadcrumbs provide that coveted crispiness. I prefer using Panko breadcrumbs for their light and airy texture, which crisps up wonderfully in the oven. If you don't have Panko, regular breadcrumbs will work too, but they may not yield the same crunchiness. Toasting the breadcrumbs in the melted butter before mixing can also enhance their flavor and crunch.

Adding herbs to the crumb mixture can further enhance the flavor profile. Try mixing in some fresh dill or thyme alongside the lemon zest for a botanical note that pairs beautifully with the cod. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, consider substituting the breadcrumbs with crushed nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, or using gluten-free breadcrumbs. This twist not only caters to dietary restrictions but also adds a lovely nuttiness to the dish.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Baked Cod With Lemon Crumbs

Ingredients

4 cod fillets
1 cup breadcrumbs
Zest of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons butter, melted
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Gather all your ingredients before you start for an easier cooking experience!

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Prepare the Cod

Season the cod fillets with salt and pepper and place them on a baking sheet.

Make the Crumb Mixture

In a bowl, combine breadcrumbs, lemon zest, melted butter, and olive oil. Mix until well combined.

Top the Cod

Evenly distribute the crumb mixture over the cod fillets.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and the topping is golden brown.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot with your choice of sides.

Enjoy your delicious Baked Cod with Lemon Crumbs!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor kick, try adding a teaspoon of garlic powder to the crumb mixture.

Making Ahead and Storage

This Baked Cod with Lemon Crumbs can be prepared ahead of time, making it perfect for busy evenings. You can season the fish and prepare the crumb topping a few hours in advance. Just keep the topping separate until you're ready to bake to ensure the crumbs remain crispy. Store any leftover cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain its crispiness without drying out.

For longer storage, you can freeze the baked cod. Make sure it’s in a tightly sealed freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw the fish overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Be mindful that freezing can change the texture slightly, so serving it with a new topping or sauce upon reheating can help refresh the dish.

Serving Suggestions

To create a balanced meal around your Baked Cod with Lemon Crumbs, consider pairing it with seasonal vegetables such as asparagus or green beans. These veggies not only add color to your plate but also complement the flavors of the cod wonderfully. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside creamy mashed potatoes or a refreshing quinoa salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to echo the fish’s flavors.

If you want to switch up the presentation or flavor, try serving the cod with a light citrus salsa made from diced tomatoes, onions, and citrus juices. This adds an additional texture contrast and elevates the dish to a new level. For a more savory approach, a light drizzle of homemade garlic butter over the top just before serving brings richness that complements the flaky fish beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cod?

Yes, you can use frozen cod, just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or a light salad.

→ Can I substitute the cod with another type of fish?

Absolutely! Any firm white fish like haddock or tilapia would work well in this recipe.

→ How can I store leftovers?

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