Boston Baked Cod: Discover This Easy, Crispy Delight! Recipe
Introduction
Boston Baked Cod is a simple and delicious way to enjoy flaky white fish with a crispy, flavorful topping. This recipe combines buttery panko breadcrumbs with fresh lemon and herbs for a light yet satisfying dish perfect for any night of the week.

Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets (6 oz each), about 1 inch thick
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Butter for greasing dish
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F and butter a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Step 2: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
- Step 3: Arrange the seasoned fillets in the prepared baking dish, leaving some space between each piece for even cooking.
- Step 4: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat until it begins to foam, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Step 5: Stir the panko breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, garlic powder, and lemon zest into the melted butter until the mixture looks like wet sand.
- Step 6: Spread the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of each cod fillet, pressing gently so it adheres well.
- Step 7: Drizzle the lemon juice and olive oil evenly over the breaded fish.
- Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the topping is golden brown.
- Step 9: Let the baked cod rest for 2 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle.
Tips & Variations
- For an extra burst of flavor, add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan to the breadcrumb mixture before baking.
- You can swap cod for haddock or pollock if preferred, adjusting cooking time slightly for thickness.
- Serve with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables to complete the meal.
Storage
Store any leftover baked cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F for 8-10 minutes to maintain crispiness, or in a microwave for 1-2 minutes if short on time.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cod fillets. Be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before seasoning and baking to ensure the breadcrumb topping adheres well.
How do I know when the cod is fully cooked?
The cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque all the way through. The topping should be golden brown and crispy.
PrintBoston Baked Cod: Discover This Easy, Crispy Delight! Recipe
Enjoy a simple and flavorful Boston Baked Cod recipe featuring crispy panko breadcrumbs, fresh lemon, and aromatic herbs baked to perfection. This easy-to-make dish delivers moist, flaky cod with a golden, crunchy topping that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a delightful dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, New England
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
Fish and Seasoning
- 4 cod fillets (6 oz each), about 1 inch thick
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Butter for greasing dish
Topping
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Zest of 1 lemon
Drizzle
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and butter a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent the fish from sticking.
- Prepare Cod: Pat the cod fillets completely dry with paper towels, then season both sides generously with salt and black pepper for enhanced flavor.
- Arrange Fillets: Place the seasoned cod fillets in the prepared baking dish, ensuring there is space between each piece for even cooking.
- Melt Butter: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter until it begins to foam, which takes about 2 minutes. Remove from heat promptly to avoid browning.
- Make Breadcrumb Mixture: Stir in the panko breadcrumbs, fresh parsley, garlic powder, and lemon zest into the melted butter until the mixture achieves a moist, sandy texture.
- Apply Topping: Evenly divide the breadcrumb mixture over the cod fillets, pressing gently so it adheres well and forms a crust.
- Add Drizzle: Drizzle fresh lemon juice and olive oil over the breadcrumb-topped fish to add brightness and help with crisping.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the topping turns a beautiful golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the baked cod to rest for 2 minutes out of the oven before serving to let the juices settle and flavors meld.
Notes
- Ensure the cod fillets are thoroughly dried before seasoning to help the breadcrumb topping stick better.
- Use fresh lemon zest and juice for the best citrus flavor.
- Feel free to substitute panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
- For extra crispiness, broil the dish for the last 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Serve with steamed vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal.
Keywords: baked cod recipe, crispy baked fish, panko cod, lemon garlic cod, easy seafood dinner

