Quick Baked Cod with Mayo and Parmesan Recipe

If you are looking for a dish that’s both effortless and irresistibly delicious, the Quick Baked Cod with Mayo and Parmesan Recipe is exactly what your weeknight dinners have been missing. This recipe combines tender, flaky cod with a luscious topping of creamy mayonnaise, sharp parmesan, and fresh herbs, all baked to a perfect golden finish. The result is a dish that feels indulgent yet comes together in a snap, making it a reliable favorite when you want something comforting without a fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the simplicity of this ingredient list fool you—each component plays a vital role in building layers of flavor and delightful texture in your Quick Baked Cod with Mayo and Parmesan Recipe. From fresh herbs adding brightness to the creamy, savory topping that crisps beautifully, every element is essential.

• 2 pounds cod fillets: Choose fresh or thawed cod fillets; their mild flavor is the perfect canvas for the topping.
• 1/3 cup mayo: Adds creaminess and helps create a golden crust on the cod.
• 1/3 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese: Delivers a nutty, savory punch that crisps up beautifully.
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Offers a fresh, slightly peppery flavor and vibrant green color.
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped: Adds aromatic sweetness and depth to the topping.
• 2 cloves garlic, grated: Brings subtle pungency and warmth without overpowering the fish.
• Salt, to taste: Enhances all the flavors and seasons the fish perfectly.
• Black pepper, to taste: Adds a mild heat and complexity.

How to Make Quick Baked Cod with Mayo and Parmesan Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 450°F to ensure a hot environment for quick, even cooking. Then, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent the fish from sticking, which will make cleanup super easy. Place the cod fillets gently on the lined baking sheet, giving each piece enough space for even heat distribution. This simple prep helps your fish cook perfectly tender and flaky.

Step 2: Make the Mayonnaise and Cheese Mixture

In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, freshly grated parmesan, chopped parsley, basil, grated garlic, salt, and black pepper. This mixture is where all the magic happens — creamy, cheesy, and herbaceous, it enhances the mild cod with a burst of bold flavor. Stir everything until it’s well combined and smooth, ready to transform the fish into a golden, flavorful masterpiece.

Step 3: Spread the Topping and Bake

Spread the mayo and parmesan mixture evenly over each cod fillet, ensuring the creamy topping covers the fish completely. This generous layer will bake up into a delicious crust. Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. Keep an eye out for the fish to become opaque and forking easily — that is your sign it’s perfectly cooked through.

Step 4: Broil to Finish

For that irresistible golden, crispy top, switch your oven to broil after baking. Place the baking tray back in the oven and broil the cod for 1 to 2 minutes until the tops become lightly browned. This quick step adds texture and elevates the flavors even more, but watch carefully so it does not burn.

Step 5: Serve

Once your cod has a beautiful, golden finish, take it out of the oven and serve it warm. The creamy, crunchy topping combined with the moist, flaky fish makes for an unbeatable bite every time.

How to Serve Quick Baked Cod with Mayo and Parmesan Recipe

Garnishes

Enhance your dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil leaves for a burst of color and freshness. A quick squeeze of lemon juice over the top right before serving adds a lovely, bright contrast to the creamy Parmesan crust, truly waking up the flavors.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with simple, vibrant sides. Think garlic roasted asparagus, a fresh garden salad with lemon vinaigrette, or fluffy mashed potatoes. For something heartier, a serving of quinoa or wild rice complements the delicate fish and soaks up any extra sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming presentation, serve each cod fillet on a bed of sautéed spinach or colorful ratatouille. You can also plate it alongside crispy oven-roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs. Adding a drizzle of olive oil or a colorful Mediterranean salsa alongside will take this dish from comforting weeknight meal to dinner party star.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cod will keep well for up to 2 days, maintaining much of its flavor and texture when chilled properly.

Freezing

Though freshly baked cod is always best, you can freeze the cooked leftovers for up to a month. Wrap the fillets tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.

Reheating

To reheat, place the cod gently on a baking sheet and warm it in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes. This method helps the topping stay crisp and prevents the fish from drying out. Avoid microwaving, which can toughen the fillets and alter textures unfavorably.

FAQs

Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?

Absolutely! While cod has a firm texture that holds up well, other white fish like haddock or tilapia work wonderfully with this mayo and Parmesan topping.

Is it necessary to use fresh herbs?

Fresh herbs provide the brightest flavor and color, but in a pinch, dried herbs can be used—just reduce the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.

Can I prepare the topping mixture in advance?

Yes, you can mix the mayo, cheese, and herbs a few hours ahead of time and keep it in the refrigerator. Just give it a quick stir before spreading on the fish.

What if I don’t have a broiler in my oven?

If your oven lacks a broil setting, finish the cod under a high heat for a minute or two, or use a kitchen torch to brown the top carefully, achieving similar results.

Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?

Definitely! Cod is naturally low in carbs, and the creamy Parmesan topping adds delicious flavor without adding carbs, making it perfect for low-carb or keto-friendly meals.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly satisfying about the Quick Baked Cod with Mayo and Parmesan Recipe that makes it a standout in any weeknight lineup. It balances ease, flavor, and texture in such a harmonious way that you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and time again. I encourage you to try it out and enjoy a little homemade magic that’s ready in no time, proving that simple ingredients can create something extraordinary!

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