Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Cod

$For this tasty dish, you will need: - 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each) - 1 cup panko bread crumbs - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon paprika - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) - 1 large egg, beaten - 2 tablespoons olive oil These ingredients create a delightful crunch and rich flavor. The panko bread crumbs add texture, while the Parmesan cheese brings a savory touch. You can boost the flavor with these additions: - Lemon zest for brightness - A pinch of cayenne for heat - Fresh herbs like thyme or dill - A squeeze of fresh lemon juice Adding these options can make your dish more vibrant. Experiment with what you like best. If you don’t have something on hand, try these swaps: - Cod can be replaced with tilapia or haddock. - For gluten-free options, use gluten-free bread crumbs. - Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan for a vegan option. These substitutes help you tailor the recipe to your kitchen and taste. Enjoy getting creative! {{ingredient_image_1}} To start, gather your ingredients. In a medium bowl, mix together: - 1 cup panko bread crumbs - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon paprika - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon salt Stir these well until they are combined. This mixture gives the cod a crunchy and cheesy crust. Now, take your cod fillets and pat them dry with paper towels. Removing moisture helps the coating stick better. Make sure they are about 6 ounces each for even cooking. Next, set up your coating station. In a shallow dish, beat 1 large egg. Dip each cod fillet in the egg, letting any extra drip off. Then, coat it in the panko and Parmesan mixture. Press gently to help it stick. Repeat this for all fillets. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. While it heats, lightly brush the coated fillets with 2 tablespoons of olive oil on both sides. Place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure they don’t touch each other. Cook for 10-12 minutes. They are done when the crust is golden and the fish flakes easily with a fork. Once cooked, carefully remove the cod from the air fryer. It’s time to garnish! Sprinkle with 2 tablespoons of fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. For a nice touch, serve the cod on a bed of lemon-infused arugula. Add lemon wedges on the side for extra zest. Enjoy your meal! To get that crispy, golden crust, use panko bread crumbs. They add a light crunch. Mix them with grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt. This mix gives the fish great flavor. Make sure to press the coating onto the fish. This helps it stick better during cooking. Brush the fillets with olive oil before air frying. This adds richness and helps the crust brown nicely. One common mistake is not drying the cod fillets. Moisture can make the crust soggy. Always pat the fillets dry with paper towels. Another error is overcrowding the air fryer basket. Place the cod in a single layer. This allows hot air to circulate and cook evenly. Finally, avoid skipping the egg wash. It acts as glue for the coating. Skipping it can lead to a loose crust. Keep your air fryer clean for the best results. Wipe down the basket and tray after each use. This prevents old food from affecting flavor. Regularly check the heating element for dust. A clean air fryer cooks more evenly. Always refer to your air fryer manual for specific care tips. Proper maintenance extends the life of your appliance. Pro Tips Dry the Fish: Make sure to pat the cod fillets dry before coating. This helps the breading adhere better and results in a crispier texture. Use Fresh Herbs: Incorporate fresh herbs like dill or thyme into the panko mixture for added flavor and a fresh aroma. Check for Doneness: Use a fork to check if the fish flakes easily; this indicates that it’s cooked through and ready to serve. Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Ensure the cod fillets are placed in a single layer in the air fryer. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and less crispy results. {{image_2}} You can add herbs for a fresh touch. Try mixing in some chopped dill or thyme with the panko and Parmesan. These herbs bring a bright flavor that pairs well with cod. Use about 1 tablespoon of each herb for a nice balance. If you like heat, add some spice! Mix in 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the panko mixture. This kick adds warmth and depth. Just remember to adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance. You can cook veggies with your cod for a complete meal. Broccoli, asparagus, or bell peppers work well. Cut the vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Toss them in olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place them in the air fryer alongside the cod. Just make sure they have enough space to cook evenly. To keep your leftover cod fresh, place it in an airtight container. Make sure to let it cool first. If you keep it in the fridge, it will last for up to three days. For best taste, eat it within a day or two. Always check for any off smells before eating. When you want to enjoy leftover cod, reheating properly is key. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the cod in the basket without overlapping. Heat for about 5-7 minutes. This will help keep the crust crispy and the fish moist. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the cod rubbery. If you have extra cod, you can freeze it. Wrap each fillet in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag. It will stay good for about three months. To thaw, move it to the fridge overnight. Never thaw it at room temperature. This keeps the fish safe and tasty. Yes, you can use frozen cod fillets. Just make sure to thaw them first. Pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the coating stick better. You can thaw the fillets overnight in the fridge or use the quick method. Place them in cold water for about 30 minutes. Once thawed, follow the same steps to coat and cook. To check if the cod is done, use a fork. Gently flake the fish in the thickest part. It should flake easily and look opaque. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). If it is still translucent, cook it for another minute or two. Always check to avoid undercooked fish. Many sides work well with Parmesan crusted cod. Here are a few ideas: - Lemon-infused arugula or mixed greens - Steamed broccoli or green beans - Roasted potatoes or sweet potatoes - Quinoa or rice pilaf These sides add a nice balance and flavor to your meal. Yes, you can bake the cod in a regular oven. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the coated fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. The cod should be golden and flaky. This method still gives you a tasty dish! The blog post covers how to make Parmesan crusted cod in an air fryer. You learned about key ingredients, step-by-step cooking, helpful tips, and delicious variations. Storing and reheating leftovers keeps your meal fresh. With these methods, you can enjoy a tasty dish that’s easy to prepare. Experiment with flavors and enjoy your air-fried cod. Cooking should be fun and rewarding!$

Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Cod

A delicious and crispy air fryer recipe for cod fillets coated in Parmesan and panko.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 12

Total Time 27

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients

4 fillets cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
1 cup panko bread crumbs
0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
0.5 teaspoon black pepper
0.5 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
1 large egg, beaten
2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

In a medium bowl, combine panko bread crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix well and set aside.
Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to remove any moisture.
In a shallow dish, beat the egg and set it next to the panko mixture for an assembly line setup.
Dip each cod fillet first into the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off, then dredge it in the panko-Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks well. Repeat for all fillets.
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
Lightly brush the coated cod fillets with olive oil on both sides. Place the fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they are not touching. Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Once done, remove the cod fillets carefully and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for added flavor and color.

Notes

Serve on a bed of lemon-infused arugula or mixed greens with lemon wedges.

Keyword air fryer, cod, parmesan, seafood