Crispy Parmesan Herb Crusted Cod with Lemon Caper Butter Sauce - A delicious recipe by DigiDish

Crispy Parmesan Herb Crusted Cod with Lemon Caper Butter Sauce

Ready to elevate dinner tonight? This crispy Parmesan herb-crusted cod is pure magic—golden, flavorful, and perfectly flaky. Topped with a zesty lemon caper butter sauce, it’s a restaurant-worthy dish you can whip up at home. Let’s dive into this deliciousness together!

4.5 out of 5 (2 ratings)

If you’re looking to bring a little five-star flair to your kitchen without the five-star price tag, this Crispy Parmesan Herb Crusted Cod with Lemon Caper Butter Sauce is calling your name! Imagine crispy, golden fillets of cod with a perfectly herby, cheesy crust. It’s the kind of dish that transforms any ordinary night into something special—like you’re dining at a quaint coastal trattoria in the Mediterranean. Trust me, this meal will have you grabbing a fork faster than you can say “pass the lemon!” Let’s make weeknight dinners deliciously memorable.

Crispy Parmesan Herb Crusted Cod with Lemon Caper Butter Sauce Recipe

What makes this dish really sparkle is the contrast of flavors and textures. You’ve got the crunchy Parmesan and herb coating, which locks in all the cod’s delicate flakiness. Then comes the star of the show: the lemon caper butter sauce. It’s tangy, buttery, and brimming with tiny pops of salty caper goodness. While the Parmesan adds a subtle nuttiness, the fresh herbs (think parsley and thyme) bring a garden-fresh brightness. The sauce ties it all together with the perfect balance of zing and richness. Oh, and here’s a secret—using panko breadcrumbs in the crust gives the fish that ultra-satisfying crunch without ever feeling heavy.

This dish is as versatile as it is delicious. Serve it with a simple side of garlicky green beans or maybe some roasted potatoes for that comforting touch. Want to switch it up? Swap cod for another firm white fish like haddock or halibut. And don’t skimp on extra lemon wedges—there’s just something joyful about squeezing fresh citrus over a warm, crispy fillet. Whether you’re cooking for family, guests, or just treating yourself (you deserve it!), this meal will have you feeling like a kitchen hero in no time. So gather your ingredients, turn up your favorite playlist, and let’s get cooking—you won’t regret it!

Keywords: crispy Parmesan cod recipe, lemon caper butter sauce fish, easy seafood dinner ideas, homemade crusted white fish, best cod recipes for dinner, flaky herb-crusted fish fillet, restaurant-quality cod at home

Prep Time

20 minutes

Cook Time

15 minutes

Servings

4 servings

Cuisine

American

Ingredients

  • 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons butter (for sauce)
  • 2 tablespoons capers, drained
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

  1. 1

    Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  2. 2

    In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, parsley, thyme, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

  3. 3

    Place flour in a separate shallow dish and beaten eggs in another dish.

  4. 4

    Dredge each cod fillet in the flour, shaking off excess. Dip into the beaten eggs, then press into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring an even coating.

  5. 5

    Heat 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.

  6. 6

    Place the cod fillets in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.

  7. 7

    Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

  8. 8

    While the fish bakes, prepare the lemon caper butter sauce. In a small saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.

  9. 9

    Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, until fragrant. Stir in the capers and lemon juice and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.

  10. 10

    Remove the cod from the oven and drizzle the lemon caper butter sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Nutrition Information

Calories

320 calories

Protein

26g

Carbs

18g

Fat

18g

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use a different type of fish instead of cod?

A: Yes, you can substitute cod with other white fish like haddock, tilapia, or halibut. Make sure the fillets are of similar thickness to ensure even cooking. Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the type of fish used.

Q: What can I use as a substitute for panko breadcrumbs?

A: If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, you can use regular breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or even crushed cornflakes for a similar crispy texture. However, panko provides the lightest and crispiest coating.

Q: How do I know when the cod is fully cooked?

A: The cod is fully cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). If you're unsure, use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the fillet.

Q: Can I make the lemon caper butter sauce ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the lemon caper butter sauce up to a few hours in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and gently reheat it on the stovetop over low heat before serving. Stir occasionally to ensure the butter doesn't separate.

Q: What is the best way to store leftovers?

A: Store leftover cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the fillets on a baking sheet in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the coating soggy.

Q: What can I serve with this dish?

A: This dish pairs well with a variety of sides such as roasted vegetables, steamed asparagus, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad. For a more complete meal, you can also serve it over rice or quinoa to soak up the lemon caper butter sauce.

Q: Why is my breadcrumb coating not sticking to the cod?

A: If the breadcrumb coating isn’t sticking, ensure you follow the dredging process correctly: coat the cod in flour first, then dip it in the beaten eggs, and finally press it firmly into the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure the fillets are dry before starting, as excess moisture can prevent the coating from adhering properly.

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