Flaky cod fillets topped with a golden herb crust, baked to perfection and finished with lemon butter for a fresh, flavorful, and elegant seafood dish. This light yet satisfying recipe brings together the brightness of citrus, the savory crunch of herbs and breadcrumbs, and the delicate texture of baked cod—all in under 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Herb-Crusted Baked Cod with Lemon Butter is a refined yet simple seafood dish that’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The herb crust provides a flavorful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender, flaky fish. The lemon butter adds a touch of richness and acidity, elevating the dish without overpowering the cod’s natural flavor. It’s easy to prepare, customizable, and pairs well with a variety of sides like roasted vegetables, rice, or salad.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the cod:

• 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the lemon butter sauce:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Pinch of sea salt

directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, olive oil, parsley, chives, thyme, garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the crumbs are evenly moistened.
3. Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Spoon the herb breadcrumb mixture over the top of each fillet, pressing gently to help it adhere.
5. Bake the cod for 12–15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the crust is golden brown.
6. While the cod bakes, whisk together the melted butter, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of sea salt in a small bowl.
7. Once baked, drizzle the lemon butter over the cod fillets. Serve immediately with additional lemon slices and fresh herbs if desired.

Servings and timing

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

Variations

• Different Fish: Use haddock, halibut, or tilapia as substitutes for cod.
• Gluten-Free Option: Replace panko with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers.
• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.
• Nutty Crust: Mix in finely chopped almonds or walnuts for added texture and flavor.
• Herb Blend: Swap in dill, basil, or tarragon to change the flavor profile.

storage/reheating

Store leftover cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the fish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the fish rubbery and the crust soggy. This dish is best enjoyed fresh and is not recommended for freezing once cooked.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cod fillets?

Yes, but thaw them completely and pat dry before applying the breadcrumb topping to avoid excess moisture.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, rice pilaf, or a fresh green salad all complement the flavors well.

How do I know when the cod is fully cooked?

The cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork and appears opaque throughout.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the butter in the lemon sauce with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative.

Is it okay to use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Fresh herbs are recommended for flavor, but you can use dried herbs in smaller quantities—about one-third of the amount.

What type of breadcrumbs should I use?

Panko breadcrumbs are ideal for a crisp, airy crust. Regular breadcrumbs can be used for a denser texture.

Can I prepare the herb topping in advance?

Yes, the herb crumb mixture can be made a few hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to use.

What can I use instead of Dijon mustard?

You can use a small amount of whole grain mustard or even leave it out if preferred, though it adds depth to the sauce.

Is this recipe low-carb?

The cod and lemon butter are low-carb, but the panko crust adds carbohydrates. Use crushed pork rinds or almond flour for a low-carb variation.

Can I cook this in an air fryer?

Yes, place the crusted fillets in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 10–12 minutes, depending on thickness.

Conclusion

Herb-Crusted Baked Cod with Lemon Butter is an elegant, healthful, and flavor-packed recipe that’s simple enough for a weekday meal and impressive enough for entertaining. The vibrant herbs and zesty lemon butter bring new life to mild white fish, creating a dish that’s both light and satisfying. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy a restaurant-quality dinner at home with ease.

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