Baked Panko-Crusted Cod with Lemon Garlic Aioli
Light and flaky cod fillets baked with a crunchy panko crust served alongside a vibrant lemon garlic aioli for dipping. This mediterranean-inspired seafood ready in about 25 minutes blends fillets (6 oz each) cod fillets, panko breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 320 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.
Ingredients
- 4 fillets (6 oz each) cod fillets
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 minced garlic cloves
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tbsp chopped, for garnish fresh parsley
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). In a shallow dish, mix 1 cup panko breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 3/4 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper.
- Step 2: Brush each of the 4 cod fillets with 2 tbsp olive oil, then press them firmly into the panko mixture to coat both sides evenly.
- Step 3: Place the coated fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes until the crust is golden and fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Step 4: While fish bakes, whisk together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tbsp lemon juice, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1 tsp lemon zest in a small bowl to make the aioli.
- Step 5: Serve the baked cod fillets warm, garnished with 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley and a side of lemon garlic aioli for dipping.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Baked Panko-Crusted Cod with Lemon Garlic Aioli take to make?
Total time is about 25 minutes (10 min prep + 15 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.
How do I store leftover Baked Panko-Crusted Cod with Lemon Garlic Aioli?
Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.
Can I substitute ingredients in Baked Panko-Crusted Cod with Lemon Garlic Aioli?
Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.
How do I scale Baked Panko-Crusted Cod with Lemon Garlic Aioli for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.
What goes well with Baked Panko-Crusted Cod with Lemon Garlic Aioli?
Mediterranean seafood like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.
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