Looking for a quick and tasty dinner? Try my Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Cod! This dish is simple, crispy, and bursting with flavor. With just a few ingredients like cod, Parmesan, and spices, you can create a delightful meal that impresses everyone at your table. Whether you’re short on time or just want something new, this recipe will become a favorite. Let’s dive into the details and make dinner a breeze!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 15 minutes to prep and 10-12 minutes to cook, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
- Healthy and Delicious: Cod is a lean source of protein, and the air fryer keeps it crispy without excess oil.
- Versatile Flavor: The combination of Parmesan and spices creates a savory crust that elevates the mild taste of cod.
- Impressive Presentation: Garnished with lemon and parsley, this dish looks as good as it tastes, great for entertaining!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
When making Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Cod, I love using fresh ingredients. The cod fillets are the star of the dish. They should be about 6 ounces each for even cooking.
Panko breadcrumbs give the dish a light and crunchy texture. I always choose high-quality grated Parmesan cheese. It adds a rich, salty flavor that works perfectly with the cod.
Spices like garlic powder and onion powder enhance the taste without overpowering the fish. Dried parsley adds a nice touch of color and freshness. Paprika gives a slight kick and beautiful color.
I use salt and black pepper to season the fillets just right. The melted butter and olive oil help the coating stick to the fish while adding flavor.
Nutritional Information
– Calories per serving: 360
– Macronutrient breakdown:
– Protein: 30g
– Carbohydrates: 20g
– Fat: 18g
This dish is not only tasty but also healthy. Each serving has about 360 calories, making it a great choice for dinner. It packs 30 grams of protein, helping you feel full and satisfied. The carbs and fats balance the meal nicely.
Enjoy this meal knowing you’re eating something delicious and nutritious!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Preheating the air fryer
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This step helps create a crispy crust on the cod.
2. Mixing the breadcrumb coating
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of dried parsley, 1/2 teaspoon of paprika, and salt and black pepper to taste. Stir well until everything mixes evenly.
Cooking Steps
1. Coating the cod fillets
Take each cod fillet and dip it into a mixture of 2 tablespoons of melted butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Make sure each fillet gets a good coat. Then, dredge the fillet in the breadcrumb mix. Press lightly to help the crumbs stick.
2. Air frying the cod fillets
Place the coated cod fillets in the air fryer basket. Arrange them in a single layer. Cook the cod for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through. They are ready when they turn golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Serving Instructions
1. Resting time before serving
After cooking, remove the fillets from the air fryer. Let them rest for a couple of minutes. This time helps the juices settle and keeps them moist.
2. Presentation suggestions
Serve the Parmesan crusted cod on a plate. Garnish with lemon wedges and some fresh parsley. A side of steamed vegetables or a light salad makes a great addition to your meal.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Cod
To get the best crust on your cod, use panko breadcrumbs. They give a light, crispy texture. Mix the breadcrumbs with cheese and spices well. This helps the flavors stick to the fish. When coating the fillets, press down gently. This ensures the mixture stays on during cooking.
If your cod fillets are thick, adjust the cooking time. Thicker pieces need more time to cook through. Start with 12 minutes, then check if they are golden brown and flake easily with a fork. The fish should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). You can flip them halfway for even cooking.
Air Fryer Tips
Cleaning your air fryer is key. After each use, wipe the basket with a damp cloth. Make sure to clean off any food bits. This keeps your air fryer in great shape and ready for next time.
Avoid common air fryer mistakes. Don’t overcrowd the basket. Leave space for air to flow. This helps your food cook evenly. Also, don’t forget to preheat the air fryer. This step makes a big difference in cooking time and texture.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Cod: Fresh cod fillets will yield the best flavor and texture. Check for bright, clear eyes and a mild scent when selecting your fish.
- Customize the Coating: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to the breadcrumb mixture for a personal touch. Thyme or oregano can enhance the flavor nicely.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: For even cooking and crispy coating, ensure that the cod fillets are spaced out in the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the cod reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for optimal safety and taste.
Variations
Flavor Additions
You can change the taste of your cod easily. Fresh herbs can add great flavor. Try using dill or thyme. These herbs bring a fresh taste to the dish. You can also spice things up. Adding cayenne pepper gives a nice kick. Just a pinch can make a big difference.
Different Coatings
You don’t have to stick to breadcrumbs. Almond flour is a great choice. It makes a tasty and gluten-free option. You can also try different cheeses. Cheddar or mozzarella can work well too. Each cheese gives a unique flavor. Experimenting with coatings can lead to new favorites.
Storage Info
Leftover Storage
To store cooked cod fillets, let them cool first. Place the fillets in an airtight container. You can keep them in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to reheat, use the air fryer. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Heat the fillets for about 5 to 7 minutes, or until they are warm and crispy. This method keeps the crust nice and crunchy.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze both uncooked and cooked fillets. For uncooked cod, wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap. Then place them in a freezer bag. This helps prevent freezer burn. They can last up to three months in the freezer. For cooked fillets, let them cool completely. Then wrap them in foil and put them in a freezer bag. They can also freeze well for up to three months.
When you’re ready to use the frozen fillets, thaw them in the fridge overnight. For quicker thawing, place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for about an hour. This way, you can enjoy your delicious cod anytime!
FAQs
Common Questions
Can I use frozen cod fillets?
Yes, you can use frozen cod fillets. Just be sure to thaw them first. Place them in the fridge overnight or run cold water over them. This will help them cook evenly.
How do I know when the cod is cooked through?
The cod is done when it reaches 145°F (63°C) inside. You can also check if it flakes easily with a fork. Cook until the coating is golden brown and crispy.
What to serve with Parmesan crusted cod?
I love serving this cod with lemon wedges and fresh parsley. You can also pair it with steamed veggies or a light salad. These sides balance the richness of the dish.
Cooking and Preparation Questions
Can I make this recipe without an air fryer?
Yes, you can bake the cod in a regular oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated fillets on a baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
What side dishes pair well with it?
Some great sides include garlic mashed potatoes or quinoa salad. You can also serve it with a tangy coleslaw. These complement the flavors of the cod nicely.
This blog post covered how to make delicious Parmesan crusted cod in an air fryer. We discussed key ingredients like cod fillets and panko breadcrumbs. You learned about the preparation and cooking steps, plus tips for perfecting the dish. I also shared storage and freezing tips, along with answers to common questions.
For tasty variations, feel free to experiment with herbs and spices. Enjoy your cooking and remember, trying new things makes meals fu
