Dinner

Flavorful Baked Cod with Mayo and Parmesan

Name: Flavorful Baked Cod with Mayo and Parmesan
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cod fillets; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

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Flavorful Baked Cod with Mayo and Parmesan is a delicious and simple dish that elevates the mild taste of cod with a creamy, cheesy topping. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for guests, combining easy preparation with mouthwatering flavor. Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or an experienced cook, this dish will surely delight your taste buds.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 384
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 3g
Fat: 28g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 630mg

Why Make This Flavorful Baked Cod with Mayo and Parmesan

This Flavorful Baked Cod with Mayo and Parmesan is not only incredibly easy to prepare but also bursts with flavor. The combination of creamy mayonnaise and rich Parmesan cheese creates a delightful crust that keeps the fish moist and tender. It’s an ideal recipe for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, cod is a lean fish, making it a healthy choice for any meal. With just a handful of ingredients, you can pull together a restaurant-quality dish right at home.

How to Make Flavorful Baked Cod with Mayo and Parmesan

Creating this flavorful dish is a straightforward process that yields impressive results. Let’s break down the steps to ensure your baked cod turns out perfectly every time.

Ingredients:

4 cod fillets
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your cod will bake evenly, leading to perfectly cooked fish.

Step 2: Mixing

In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well blended into a creamy sauce.

Step 3: Cooking

Place the cod fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This makes cleanup easier and prevents the fish from sticking. Spread an even layer of the mayonnaise mixture over the top of each cod fillet, ensuring they’re well-coated.

Step 4: Finishing

Bake the cod in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. Once cooked, remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

How to Serve Flavorful Baked Cod with Mayo and Parmesan

This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Serve it alongside steamed vegetables, a fresh garden salad, or fluffy rice for a complete meal. A squeeze of fresh lemon on top can enhance the flavors beautifully, while a glass of chilled white wine can elevate your dining experience.

How to Store Flavorful Baked Cod with Mayo and Parmesan

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, as microwaving may make the fish rubbery.

Expert Tips for Perfect Flavorful Baked Cod with Mayo and Parmesan

Fresh Cod: For the best flavor, use fresh cod fillets if possible. Frozen is fine, but ensure they are thoroughly thawed.
Spice it Up: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your preference. Adding herbs like dill or parsley can bring in fresh flavors.
Cheese Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of Parmesan, try using Gruyère or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
Thickness Matters: Be mindful of the thickness of your cod fillets. Thicker fillets may require additional cooking time.

Delicious Variations

Experiment with different flavor profiles by adding ingredients like:

Dijon Mustard: For added zest, mix in a tablespoon of Dijon mustard with your mayonnaise.
Spinach and Cheese: Mix in some chopped spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
Crusty Topping: Add breadcrumbs to the mayonnaise mixture for a crispy topping.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen cod fillets? Yes! Just ensure they are fully thawed before preparation for even cooking.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise? Greek yogurt or sour cream are great alternatives to reduce calories.
How do I know when the cod is done? The fish should flake easily with a fork and be opaque in color when fully cooked.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the mayonnaise mixture and coat the fillets a few hours in advance, then bake them just before serving.
Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, it is gluten-free and perfect for those with dietary restrictions.

Conclusion

Flavorful Baked Cod with Mayo and Parmesan is a delightful dish that showcases the beauty of simple ingredients coming together in a delicious way. It’s quick to prepare, packed with flavor, and sure to be a hit at your dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this recipe will leave everyone asking for seconds. Don’t hesitate to try it—you’ll love how this dish transforms everyday cod into something truly special!