Easy Cheesy Baked Cod: Your Go-To Quick & Flavorful Weeknight Dinner
Are you searching for a dinner idea that’s not only incredibly quick and easy to prepare but also bursting with delicious flavor? Look no further! This Easy Cheesy Baked Cod recipe is exactly what your weeknight menu needs. Imagine tender, flaky cod fillets, perfectly cooked, and crowned with a golden, crispy crust of rich Parmesan and savory Cheddar cheese. This dish delivers a comforting, satisfying meal in just about 50 minutes from start to finish, with a mere 5 minutes of active prep time. It’s the ultimate solution for busy evenings when you crave something light yet satisfying, or when you simply want to impress your family with minimal effort. Prepare for rave reviews – one bite, and everyone at your table will be asking for more!
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Why You’ll Love This Easy Baked Cod Recipe
This cheesy baked cod isn’t just another fish recipe; it’s a culinary triumph that offers a multitude of benefits, making it an instant favorite in any household. Firstly, its incredible speed and ease of preparation mean you can have a gourmet-tasting meal on the table even on the busiest of weeknights. Forget complicated techniques or endless ingredient lists – this recipe streamlines the cooking process without sacrificing flavor.
Secondly, the combination of tender, mild cod with a rich, creamy sauce and a crispy, cheesy topping is simply irresistible. The delicate flakiness of the fish is perfectly complemented by the savory crunch of the Parmesan and Cheddar crust, creating a delightful textural contrast in every bite. It’s a dish that appeals to both adults and children, often making it a surprising hit even with picky eaters who might otherwise shy away from fish.
Furthermore, cod is an excellent source of lean protein and essential nutrients, making this recipe a healthy choice for your family. By baking it, you minimize the need for excessive fats, ensuring a wholesome meal. The simple, fresh flavors of dill and mustard subtly enhance the fish without overpowering it, allowing the natural goodness of the ingredients to shine through. This versatility also means it pairs beautifully with a wide variety of side dishes, from vibrant steamed vegetables to hearty grains or potatoes, allowing you to easily customize your meal.
Essential Ingredients for Cheesy Baked Cod
Creating this delicious Cheesy Baked Cod requires a handful of straightforward ingredients, most of which you likely already have in your pantry. The magic lies in how these simple components come together to form a rich, flavorful sauce and a perfectly crispy topping for the delicate fish.
Choosing the Perfect Fish: Cod and Alternatives
The star of this dish is, of course, the cod. You can confidently use either fresh or frozen cod fillets. If opting for frozen cod, it’s crucial to thaw it completely beforehand. The best method is to transfer it to the refrigerator the night before. Once thawed, pat the fillets thoroughly dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture is key to ensuring the fish bakes properly and doesn’t become watery in the dish. While cod is highly recommended for its mild flavor and flaky texture, you can certainly experiment with other white fish varieties. Great alternatives include tilapia, pangasius, haddock, pollock, or even flounder. Just ensure the fillets are of similar thickness to ensure even cooking.
The Cheesy Duo: Parmesan & Cheddar
The delightful crispy topping and the flavorful sauce owe much of their character to the carefully selected cheeses. A blend of Parmesan and Cheddar cheese provides the ideal combination of crunch, sharpness, and rich flavor that elevates this dish. Parmesan offers a salty, nutty depth and a fantastic crispness when baked, thanks to its lower moisture content. Cheddar, on the other hand, melts beautifully, adding a creamy, tangy dimension to the topping. For best results, always grate your cheese fresh from a block; pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can affect their melting properties and overall texture. Don’t hesitate to try other cheeses if you wish! Mozzarella for extra meltiness, Gruyere for a richer, more complex flavor, or even Monterey Jack for a milder, creamier finish could be excellent additions or substitutions.
Other Key Ingredients & Flavor Enhancers
- Butter & All-Purpose Flour: These two ingredients are the foundation of our creamy sauce, forming a classic roux that thickens the milk and carries the flavors beautifully. Using good quality butter makes a noticeable difference.
- Milk: Whole milk is recommended for the richest and creamiest sauce, but 2% milk will also work well. It provides the liquid base for the roux, transforming it into a luxurious béchamel-like sauce.
- Mustard: A touch of Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang and depth to the sauce, cutting through the richness of the cheese and perfectly complementing the fish. It’s a secret ingredient that truly brightens the flavor profile.
- Dill: Fresh dill is a classic pairing for fish, offering a bright, herbaceous note that is both refreshing and aromatic. If fresh dill isn’t available, you can use dried dill, but use about half the amount as dried herbs are more concentrated.
- Breadcrumbs: These are essential for creating that irresistible crispy crust. Panko breadcrumbs are highly recommended for their superior crunchiness, but regular fine breadcrumbs will also work. They absorb some of the cheese and sauce, baking into a golden, textured topping.
- Salt & Pepper: Simple seasonings are all you need to bring out the natural flavors of the cod and enhance the sauce. Seasoning the fish lightly before adding the sauce ensures a well-balanced taste throughout the dish.
Equipment You’ll Need
Having the right tools on hand will make the preparation process smooth and enjoyable. You’ll need:
- An Oven-Safe Baking Dish: A medium-sized baking dish (approx. 9×13 inches or similar) is ideal for fitting four cod fillets in a single layer.
- A Saucepan: For preparing the creamy cheese sauce.
- A Whisk: Essential for making a smooth, lump-free roux and sauce.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient proportions.
- Paper Towels: To thoroughly dry the fish fillets.
How to Prepare Your Cheesy Baked Cod: Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps to create a show-stopping Cheesy Baked Cod that’s sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation. Each stage is designed for ease and flavor maximization.
- Step 1: Master the Roux. Begin by melting the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once the butter is fully melted and shimmering, add the all-purpose flour all at once. Immediately start stirring with a whisk. Continue to cook and stir for about 2 minutes. This step is crucial for cooking out the raw flour taste and creating the base for your thick, creamy sauce. The mixture will form a paste-like consistency.
- Step 2: Craft the Creamy Dill & Parmesan Sauce. Slowly, and in small increments, pour in the milk while continuously whisking to prevent any lumps from forming. Gradually adding the milk helps to create a smooth, velvety sauce. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has visibly thickened to your desired consistency. Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in the mustard, grated Parmesan cheese, and fresh dill. Mix everything until the cheese is fully incorporated and the sauce is smooth and fragrant. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Step 3: Prepare Your Cod for Baking. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). While the oven heats, lightly butter an oven-safe baking dish. This prevents the fish from sticking and adds a little extra flavor. Arrange your cod fillets in a single layer at the bottom of the prepared dish. If using thinner fillets, ensure they don’t overlap too much. Pour the prepared creamy dill and Parmesan sauce evenly over and around the fish fillets, making sure they are well coated.
- Step 4: The Cheesy Breadcrumb Topping & Baking. In a small bowl, combine the remaining grated Cheddar cheese with the breadcrumbs. Toss them together until well mixed. Generously sprinkle this cheesy breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the sauced cod fillets. This will form a beautiful golden, crispy crust. Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for approximately 45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and bubbling, and the cod flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature of the fish should reach 145°F (63°C).
Tips for Perfectly Baked Cod Every Time
Achieving perfectly baked cod is simple with a few expert tips that ensure moist, flavorful fish and a wonderfully crispy topping:
- Don’t Overcook the Fish: Cod is a lean fish and can dry out quickly if overcooked. The key is to bake it until it just flakes easily with a fork. An internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) is ideal. If your fillets are thinner, they might cook faster, so keep an eye on them.
- Pat Your Fish Dry: This step is critical, especially when using thawed frozen cod. Excess moisture can lead to a soggy texture and dilute the flavors of your sauce. A dry surface allows the sauce to cling better and prevents the dish from becoming watery.
- Season Liberally: While the sauce is flavorful, don’t forget to lightly season the cod fillets with salt and pepper before adding the sauce. This layers the flavors and ensures every bite is well-seasoned.
- Use Evenly Sized Fillets: If possible, choose cod fillets that are similar in thickness. This promotes uniform cooking, so all pieces are perfectly done at the same time. If you have one much thicker piece, it’s best to cut it down to match the others.
- Freshly Grated Cheese is Best: Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can hinder smooth melting and crisping. For the best texture and flavor in your sauce and topping, grate your Parmesan and Cheddar from a block.
- Consider Your Baking Dish: A ceramic or glass baking dish works wonderfully, distributing heat evenly. If you use a metal pan, your cooking time might be slightly shorter.
Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Cheesy Baked Cod
This Easy Cheesy Baked Cod is a versatile main course that pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes, allowing you to create a complete and satisfying meal for any occasion. Here are some delicious ideas:
- Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: Embrace the healthy aspect of this dish by serving it with vibrant green vegetables. Steamed asparagus, broccoli florets, green beans, or even roasted brussels sprouts make excellent companions, offering a fresh contrast to the rich cheese sauce.
- Rice or Quinoa: A simple bed of fluffy white rice, brown rice, or nutritious quinoa can soak up the delicious cheesy sauce, making for a wonderfully comforting combination.
- Mashed Potatoes or Cauliflower Mash: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a classic, comforting side that complements the baked fish perfectly. For a lighter option, consider a smooth cauliflower mash.
- Fresh Green Salad: A crisp, refreshing green salad with a light vinaigrette is a fantastic way to balance the richness of the cheesy cod. It adds freshness and a delightful crunch.
- Garlic Bread or Crusty Baguette: Don’t let any of that delicious sauce go to waste! A slice of warm garlic bread or a piece of crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up every last bit.
- Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the finished dish adds a bright, zesty finish that really makes the flavors pop.
Make Ahead, Storage, and Reheating
This Cheesy Baked Cod is best enjoyed fresh from the oven, but it’s also possible to prepare certain components ahead of time or store leftovers for another meal. Planning ahead can make busy weeknights even smoother.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the creamy dill and Parmesan sauce up to 1-2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, gently warm the sauce slightly to make it pourable before assembling the dish. You can also mix the breadcrumb and Cheddar topping ahead of time and keep it in a separate container.
- Storage: If you have leftovers, allow the baked fish to cool down completely and quickly to prevent bacterial growth. Transfer the cooled cod and any remaining sauce into an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. While you can freeze cooked cod, the texture of the sauce and the crispy topping may change upon thawing and reheating.
- Reheating: To reheat, the best method is to use your oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Place the leftover cod (covered loosely with aluminum foil to prevent further drying) in an oven-safe dish. Reheat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. The foil helps to retain moisture. If you want to crisp up the topping, remove the foil for the last few minutes of reheating. Avoid reheating in the microwave if possible, as it can make the fish rubbery and the topping soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Cod
- Can I use frozen cod fillets directly?
- No, it’s essential to thaw frozen cod completely before baking. Placing frozen fish directly into the oven can result in uneven cooking and a watery dish. Once thawed, always pat the fillets thoroughly dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- What if I don’t have fresh dill? Can I substitute it?
- Absolutely! While fresh dill provides the best flavor, you can use dried dill. As a general rule, use about half the amount of dried dill compared to fresh, as dried herbs are more potent. Other fresh herbs like parsley or chives could also be used for a different flavor profile.
- How do I know when the cod is perfectly cooked and not dry?
- Cooked cod will flake easily when tested with a fork. The flesh will turn opaque throughout. For the most accurate result, use an instant-read thermometer. The internal temperature of the thickest part of the fish should reach 145°F (63°C). Overcooking is the main cause of dry, rubbery fish.
- Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
- Making this recipe dairy-free would require several substitutions. You could use a plant-based butter alternative, a non-dairy milk (like unsweetened almond or oat milk), and a good quality dairy-free Parmesan and Cheddar cheese alternative. The texture and flavor might vary slightly, but it’s definitely achievable.
- What kind of baking dish is best for this recipe?
- A ceramic or glass baking dish (such as a 9×13 inch casserole dish) is ideal for this recipe. These materials conduct heat evenly, ensuring the fish cooks through and the cheesy topping gets perfectly golden and crispy without burning.
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📖 Recipe
RECIPE CARD
Andréa
Pin Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- ½ teaspoon dill
- 2 pounds cod fillets, divided in 4
- ¼ cup grated cheddar cheese
- ⅓ cup breadcrumbs
All my recipes are written both in Metric (gram / ml) and US Customary (cups / pounds). Here you can select which type of amount you would like to see.
Instructions
Make the Sauce
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Melt the butter in a pan over medium heat.2 tablespoons butter
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Add the flour all at once and stir well. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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Gradually add the milk while stirring to avoid lumps.1 cup milk
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Bring to a boil and let the sauce simmer until it thickens.
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Stir in the mustard, Parmesan cheese, and dill. Mix until smooth.1 teaspoon mustard, ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, ½ teaspoon dill
Prepare the Cod
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Preheat the oven to 350 °F.
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Grease a baking dish with butter.
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Lay the cod fillet in the baking dish in a single layer.2 pounds cod fillets
Assemble and Bake
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Pour the sauce evenly over and around the cod.
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Mix the grated Cheddar cheese with the breadcrumbs in a small bowl.¼ cup grated cheddar cheese, ⅓ cup breadcrumbs
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Sprinkle this mixture over the cod and sauce.
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Bake in the oven for 45 minutes.
Serving Tip
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Serve the baked cod with steamed vegetables or a side of rice for a complete meal. Enjoy! 🐟🧀
Notes
- Herb-Crusted Cod: Add fresh parsley, thyme, or chives to the breadcrumb mixture for extra aromatic flavor. A pinch of garlic powder or onion powder can also elevate the savory notes.
- Different Fish: While cod is fantastic, feel free to substitute with other firm white fish like haddock, pollock, or even a thicker tilapia for a similar result. Ensure fillets are of similar thickness for even cooking.
- Spicy Kick: For a touch of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce.
2. How Do I Know When Cod Is Done? The fish is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145 °F (ca. 63 °C). The topping should be golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcooking to keep the fish moist and tender.
3. Storage
Allow the fish to cool down quickly if you want to store it. This helps to prevent bacterial growth and maintains food safety.
- Refrigerator: Once cooled, transfer any leftover baked cod into an airtight container. It can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The sauce can also be stored separately in a covered container for the same duration.
- Reheat: The best way to reheat baked cod is in a preheated oven at 350 °F (180 °C). Place the fish in an oven-safe dish and cover loosely with aluminum foil to help retain moisture. Reheat for 10-15 minutes, or until thoroughly warmed. For a crispier topping, remove the foil during the last few minutes. Avoid microwave reheating as it can make the fish rubbery.
Nutrition
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More Delicious Fish Recipes to Explore
If you’re a fan of seafood and looking for more quick, easy, and flavorful ways to incorporate fish into your diet, be sure to check out these other fantastic recipes from my collection. From vibrant paella to zesty shrimp and healthy fish packets, there’s something to inspire every seafood lover!
- Paella with Shrimp and Chorizo
- Raclette recipe shrimp pili pili
- Fish package, healthy and skinny recipe