Baked Cod with Tomato Garlic Crust is a rustic yet elegant seafood dish that brings together flaky white fish and a zesty topping of tomatoes, garlic, herbs, and breadcrumbs. It’s a simple recipe that transforms everyday ingredients into a flavorful and nourishing meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is quick to prepare and full of Mediterranean-inspired flavors. The cod remains juicy and tender while the tomato-garlic crust adds texture and a burst of umami. It’s a perfect choice for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining, and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Plus, it’s high in protein and naturally low in carbohydrates.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cod fillets
• Olive oil
• Cherry tomatoes or canned diced tomatoes
• Garlic
• Breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Tomato paste
• Smoked paprika
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with a bit of olive oil.
2. In a food processor, blend together cherry tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, tomato paste, paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese. Pulse until a coarse, spreadable paste forms. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and arrange them in the greased baking dish.
4. Spoon the tomato-garlic mixture over each fillet, spreading it evenly to cover the tops.
5. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the topping is golden and slightly crisp.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 18 minutes
Total time: 28 minutes

Variations

• Herbed Crust: Add fresh basil, oregano, or thyme to the crust for added aroma.
• Spicy Version: Increase red pepper flakes or add a bit of harissa paste to the topping.
• Cheese-Free: Omit Parmesan for a dairy-free version or replace with nutritional yeast.
• Fish Substitution: Try this crust on haddock, halibut, or tilapia.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed almonds in place of regular breadcrumbs.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
To reheat, place in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 8–10 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it may dry out the fish. This dish is not recommended for freezing, as the texture of the topping may become soggy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure the fish is fully thawed and patted dry before baking to avoid excess moisture.

What type of tomatoes works best?

Cherry tomatoes offer a sweet, concentrated flavor, but canned diced tomatoes work well for convenience.

Can I make the topping ahead of time?

Yes, the tomato-garlic mixture can be prepared up to 1 day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

How do I know when cod is fully cooked?

The cod should be opaque and flake easily with a fork when done. An internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) is ideal.

Can I omit the Parmesan cheese?

Yes, the cheese adds richness, but the recipe still works well without it or with a dairy-free alternative.

What sides go well with this dish?

Serve with couscous, rice pilaf, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad.

Can I use other fish?

Absolutely. Haddock, halibut, or sea bass are all good substitutes for cod in this recipe.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, you can prepare the crust and assemble the dish in advance. Bake just before serving for the best texture.

Can I broil the fish at the end for more color?

Yes, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end of baking to enhance browning, but watch closely to avoid burning.

How thick should the fillets be?

Aim for fillets about 1 inch thick to ensure even cooking.

Conclusion

Baked Cod with Tomato Garlic Crust is a flavorful, health-conscious seafood dish that’s as beautiful as it is easy to make. With minimal prep and ingredients, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re feeding guests or looking for a nourishing family meal, this dish is sure to satisfy.

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