The Best Ina Garten Baked Cod With Panko Recipe Ever Made

Baked cod with panko represents a culinary delight that transforms simple seafood into a crispy, golden masterpiece.

Home cooks love this elegant dish for its straightforward preparation and remarkable flavor profile.

Each flaky fish fillet becomes a canvas for crunchy, herbaceous breadcrumbs that add delightful texture and depth.

Professional chefs appreciate how panko creates a light, airy coating that remains perfectly crisp after baking.

Delicate fish meets robust seasoning in this versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners or special gatherings.

Mediterranean-inspired techniques elevate this seafood classic beyond traditional preparations.

You will crave this restaurant-quality meal that brings gourmet sophistication to your kitchen: Get ready to impress!

Experience the Crunchy Delight of Ina Garten Baked Cod With Panko

• Crunch Meets Softness: The combination of crispy panko and Ritz cracker crumbs creates an irresistible textural contrast against the delicate, flaky cod fish.
• Quick and Effortless Gourmet: This recipe transforms simple ingredients into an elegant meal in just 32 minutes, making restaurant-quality dining accessible for home cooks with minimal culinary skills.
• Bright and Zesty Flavor Burst: The addition of fresh lemon zest, parsley, and white wine elevates the mild cod with a vibrant, tangy Mediterranean-inspired taste profile that refreshes the palate.
• One-Dish Wonder: Baked directly in a ceramic dish with minimal prep, this recipe offers maximum flavor with minimal cleanup, perfect for busy weeknight dinners or casual entertaining.

Essential Ingredients for Ina Garten Baked Cod With Panko

• Cod Fillets: Fresh, mild white fish perfect for baking, choose thick and uniform fillets for even cooking.

• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential for bringing out the fish's natural flavors, use kosher or sea salt for best results.
• Garlic, Parsley: Fresh herbs and aromatics that add depth and brightness to the dish.
• Lemon Zest: Provides zesty citrus notes that complement the delicate cod.

• Ritz Cracker Crumbs, Panko: Create a crispy, golden-brown crust that adds texture and crunch to the fish.
• Butter: Helps bind the crumb mixture and adds rich, golden color when baked.
• White Wine: Adds moisture and subtle complexity to the fish during cooking.
• Lemon Juice: Brightens the overall flavor and helps tenderize the fish.
• Olive Oil: Used for coating the baking dish and ensuring the fish doesn't stick.

A Complete Guide to Ina Garten Baked Cod With Panko

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Crank your oven to a toasty 400°F. Grab a 9 x 9-inch ceramic baking dish and drizzle of olive oil, swirling to cover the bottom completely.

Step 2: Season the Fish

• 1 salt
• Black pepper

Bake for 10 minutes until the fish starts to turn opaque.

Step 3: Create Crunchy Topping

• Ritz cracker crumbs
• Panko breadcrumbs
• Fresh chopped parsley
• Minced garlic
• Lemon zest
• Salt

Pour melted butter over the mixture and mix until everything looks perfectly moistened.

Step 4: Add Liquid Flavor Boost

Remove the cod from the oven and pour white wine and fresh lemon juice directly over the fillets, creating a mouthwatering sauce.

Step 5: Finish with Crispy Topping

Carefully press the panko mixture onto the fish, creating an even, golden crust. Return to the oven and bake for 12 more minutes, or until the fish is fully cooked and the topping turns beautifully golden brown.

Expert Hints for Ina Garten Baked Cod With Panko

• Capture Zesty Freshness: Grate lemon zest moments before mixing into crumb topping to unleash vibrant citrus notes.
• Select Superior Seafood: Pick pristine cod fillets with a clean ocean fragrance, ensuring top-quality flavor and silky texture.
• Lock In Moisture Wisely: Remove cod from oven when fish flakes gently and looks completely opaque to prevent dryness.
• Craft Crackly Coating: Toast panko and Ritz cracker crumbs in a dry skillet for extra golden crunch and irresistible texture.
• Balance Seasoning Skillfully: Taste crumb mixture before coating fish, adjusting salt since Ritz crackers bring natural saltiness.

Smart Storage Ideas for Ina Garten Baked Cod With Panko

• Vacuum Sealing: Preserve the crispy panko coating and delicate fish texture by using a vacuum sealer. Wrap individual cod fillets tightly, removing all air to prevent moisture and freezer burn. This method maintains peak flavor and quality for up to 3 months in the freezer.
• Glass Container Storage: Transfer cooled cod to a glass container with a tight-fitting lid. Layer fillets between parchment paper to prevent sticking and protect the panko crust. Refrigerate for maximum 2 days, ensuring the fish stays fresh and retains its original crunch.
• Portion Separation: Divide leftover cod into single-serving portions before storing. Wrap each piece separately in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place in a sealed container. This technique prevents moisture buildup and makes reheating individual servings quick and convenient.

Creative Twists on Ina Garten Baked Cod With Panko

• Mediterranean Herb Cod: Replace Ritz crackers with herbed breadcrumbs, adding oregano, thyme, and chopped rosemary for a Greek-inspired flavor profile.
• Spicy Cajun Version: Incorporate Cajun seasoning into the crumb mixture, adding cayenne pepper and paprika for a bold, zesty kick that transforms the mild cod.
• Asian-Inspired Sesame Cod: Swap panko with toasted sesame seeds, mix in grated ginger, and drizzle with soy sauce before adding the crumb topping for an east Asian culinary experience.
• Gluten-Free Almond Crust: Substitute panko and Ritz crackers with ground almonds and gluten-free breadcrumbs, creating a nutty, crisp coating for those with dietary restrictions.

Closing Reflections on Ina Garten Baked Cod With Panko

Cod lovers, prepare for a culinary masterpiece that redefines seafood elegance.

Ina Garten’s baked cod recipe promises a symphony of textures and flavors dancing on your plate.

Mediterranean-inspired ingredients elevate this dish from simple to spectacular.

Crisp panko and buttery Ritz cracker topping create an irresistible golden crust that complements delicate fish perfectly.

Subtle hints of lemon and garlic whisper sophistication with each succulent bite.

Call your closest friends, share this incredible recipe, comment below with your coastal cooking adventures, and spread the deliciousness across social media platforms.

Ina Garten Baked Cod With Panko Recipe

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4.6 from 16 reviews

• Total Time: 32 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Ina Garten’s baked cod with panko brings Mediterranean coastal flavors straight to kitchen tables. Crispy golden panko creates a delicate crust over tender fish, offering an elegant dinner experience you can enjoy effortlessly.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 4 center-cut boneless, skinless cod fillets (6 to 8 ounces each)
• ½ cup Ritz cracker crumbs (15 crackers)
• ⅓ cup panko (Japanese bread flakes)

Seasoning and Herbs:

• 2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic (2 cloves)
• 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper

Liquids and Accompaniments:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• ¼ cup dry white wine, such as Pinot Grigio
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• Good olive oil
• Lemon wedges, for serving

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Instructions

1. Warm the oven to 400°F (204°C) and position a rack in the middle. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil across the surface of a 9 x 9-inch ceramic baking dish, ensuring complete bottom coverage by gently rotating the dish.
2. Position cod fillets into the oiled dish, carefully turning them to coat both surfaces with olive oil. Generously sprinkle 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper across the fish.
3. Slide the baking dish into the preheated oven and roast the cod for precisely 10 minutes, allowing the fish to begin cooking and releasing its natural juices.
4. While the fish roasts, create the crispy topping by combining crushed Ritz crackers, panko breadcrumbs, finely chopped fresh parsley, minced garlic, freshly grated lemon zest, and 1 teaspoon of salt in a medium mixing bowl.
5. Pour melted butter into the cracker mixture, stirring thoroughly until the ingredients are evenly moistened and form a cohesive, slightly clumpy texture.
6. Remove the partially cooked cod from the oven and immediately drizzle white wine and fresh lemon juice directly over the fillets, which will enhance the fish’s delicate flavor profile.
7. Gently press the prepared crumb mixture onto the surface of each fillet, creating an even, slightly compact layer that will transform into a golden, crispy crust.
8. Return the dish to the oven and continue baking for an additional 12 minutes, or until the fish is completely opaque, flakes easily with a fork, and the topping turns a rich, golden brown color.

Notes

• Olive oil acts as a protective layer, preventing the delicate cod from sticking to the baking dish and introducing a subtle fruity undertone.
• Salt and pepper work magic by enhancing the cod’s inherent flavors and creating a perfectly seasoned foundation.
• Ceramic baking dishes provide even heat distribution, ensuring the fish cooks uniformly without becoming dry or overcooked.
• Panko breadcrumbs deliver an irresistible crispy texture that transforms into a beautiful golden-brown topping.
• Garlic brings a savory depth that elevates the entire dish’s complexity and aroma.
• Melted butter serves as the binding agent, creating a luxurious golden crust that adds delightful crunch to the baked cod.
• Lemon zest cuts through the richness with a bright, citrusy punch that awakens all the flavors.
• White wine introduces a subtle acidic element that tenderizes the fish and enhances its natural qualities.
• Ritz crackers contribute a buttery, rich texture that perfectly complements the delicate cod.
• Freshly chopped parsley adds a vibrant green color and a fresh, herbal note to the crumb topping.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 22 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 325 kcal
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 450 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 9 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 25 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 18 g
• Cholesterol: 65 mg