Pesto Parmesan Baked Cod

This hearty Pesto Parmesan Baked Cod has become my go-to seafood dish when I want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of vibrant pesto and nutty Parmesan transforms simple cod into a restaurant-worthy meal that looks and tastes like you put in far more effort than you actually did.

I first created this dish when unexpected dinner guests arrived and all I had was frozen cod fillets. The rave reviews convinced me to add it to my regular rotation, and now it's requested whenever friends come over for a casual dinner party.

Ingredients

• Fresh cod fillets: choose thick cuts of about 6 oz each for best results and look for firm flesh with a mild ocean scent
• Basil pesto: store bought works perfectly but homemade adds an extra dimension of freshness if you have time
• Grated Parmesan cheese: splurge on Parmigiano Reggiano for its complex nutty flavor that elevates the entire dish
• Olive oil: use a good quality extra virgin variety for the best flavor profile
• Fresh lemon juice: the acidity balances the richness of the cheese and pesto beautifully
• Minced garlic: provides an aromatic base that infuses throughout the dish while baking
• Salt and pepper: freshly ground black pepper makes a noticeable difference in the final flavor
• Fresh basil leaves: optional but adds a pop of color and freshness to the finished dish
• Lemon wedges: essential for serving as a final squeeze brightens all the flavors

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 400°F and ensure it reaches full temperature before adding the fish. While waiting, line your baking dish with parchment paper for easy cleanup or lightly coat with olive oil to prevent sticking. The high temperature ensures a nice golden crust forms on top while keeping the fish moist inside.

Prepare the Cod:

Pat each fillet completely dry with paper towels this crucial step ensures proper browning and helps the pesto mixture adhere better. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper, then arrange the fillets in your prepared baking dish with a small space between each piece to allow heat to circulate evenly.

Make the Sauce:

Combine the basil pesto, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice in a small bowl. Mix thoroughly until you achieve a spreadable consistency that will coat the fish evenly. The olive oil helps prevent the cheese from becoming too dry during baking, while the lemon juice cuts through the richness.

Coat the Cod:

Using a spoon, generously spread the pesto Parmesan mixture over each fillet, ensuring complete coverage from edge to edge. Don't be shy with the topping as it creates a protective layer that keeps the fish moist while infusing it with flavor. Make sure to spread it evenly about ¼ inch thick across each piece.

Bake the Cod:

Place the baking dish on the middle rack of your preheated oven. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets. The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has reached an internal temperature of 145°F. The topping should be bubbling and golden brown, creating a beautiful crust.

Garnish and Serve:

Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 2 minutes. Sprinkle fresh basil leaves over the top for a burst of color and aroma. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for guests to squeeze over their portions according to taste. The bright acidity of fresh lemon perfectly complements the rich topping.

The pesto is truly the star of this dish. I discovered the magic of combining pesto with white fish during a cooking vacation in Liguria, Italy, where a local grandmother showed me how the bright herbaceous flavors complement delicate seafood without overpowering it. Her secret was adding a touch of lemon to cut through the richness, which I've incorporated into this recipe.

Selecting the Perfect Cod

When shopping for cod, look for fillets with a translucent appearance and firm texture that springs back when touched. Fresh cod should smell clean and oceanic, never fishy. If fresh isn't available, high quality frozen cod works wonderfully just thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight and pat very dry before using. The thickness of the fillets matters for this recipe thicker cuts around 1 to 1.5 inches work best as they remain moist during the cooking process.

Make Ahead and Storage Tips

This dish is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare the pesto Parmesan mixture up to three days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cod can be seasoned and the topping applied up to four hours before baking just cover and refrigerate until you're ready to cook. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days and gently reheated in a 300°F oven until just warmed through to prevent the fish from becoming tough.

Serving Suggestions

Create a Mediterranean inspired meal by serving this cod with a side of roasted cherry tomatoes and olives. The acidity of the tomatoes complements the richness of the pesto topping beautifully. For a complete dinner, add a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon and olive oil, plus a side of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices. If you're serving wine, a crisp Pinot Grigio or unoaked Chardonnay makes an excellent pairing that won't overpower the delicate fish.

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ How do I know when the cod is cooked through?

The cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork and appears opaque throughout. Avoid overcooking to keep it moist.

→ Can I use frozen cod fillets?

Yes, just make sure to thaw the fillets completely and pat them dry before seasoning and baking for best texture.

→ Is homemade pesto necessary for this dish?

Store-bought pesto works well and saves time, but homemade pesto adds a fresh, vibrant flavor if preferred.

→ What can I serve with this baked cod?

Pair with simple sides such as roasted vegetables, steamed rice, or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.

→ How can I prevent the fish from drying out?

Ensure the cod is coated well with the pesto mixture and monitor the baking time closely for tender, juicy results.