Ingredients:

  • 1.5 lb cod fillets
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1/2 tsp dried parsley
  • 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 tbsp melted butter

Instructions:

  1. Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and season both sides evenly with salt and pepper.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, zest, and parsley.
  3. Spoon the lemon garlic mixture generously over each fillet, ensuring the tops are fully coated. If using the Panko topping, mix breadcrumbs with 1 tbsp melted butter and press them firmly into the glaze.
  4. Bake in a preheated 400°F (200°C) oven for 12–15 minutes until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
  5. Optional: Toggle the broiler for the final 60 seconds until the topping sizzles and browns to a mahogany color.