If you’re looking for a vibrant, flavor-packed weeknight dinner that never fails to impress, the Everything Bagel Panko Cod Recipe is about to become your new go-to. This dish brings together the irresistible crunch of panko breadcrumbs and the bold, savory notes of everything bagel seasoning, all wrapped around tender, flaky cod. With just a handful of everyday ingredients and a super simple prep, you’ll have a stunning main course on the table in under 30 minutes. Trust me, your family (and your tastebuds) will thank you!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a starring role in creating that crave-worthy crunch and deep, savory flavor. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need to make the Everything Bagel Panko Cod Recipe really shine:
- Cod fillets: Mild, flaky, and sturdy enough to hold up to a crunchy topping—perfect for soaking up all those flavors.
- Mayonnaise or Greek yogurt: Acts as the “glue” for the coating and keeps the fish ultra-moist. Greek yogurt adds a tangy twist if you prefer!
- Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle zing and depth—don’t skip it!
- Panko breadcrumbs: Japanese-style breadcrumbs make the coating light, airy, and extra crispy.
- Everything bagel seasoning: The star of the show! A blend of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic, onion, and salt brings bold flavor to every bite.
- Olive oil (optional): A light drizzle before baking ups the crunch factor and adds a hint of richness.
- Salt and pepper: Simple seasoning to enhance all the other flavors—don’t overdo it, as the seasoning mix has salt too.
- Lemon wedges: A finishing squeeze of lemon brightens up the whole dish.
- Chopped parsley (optional): For a burst of color and a fresh, herbal finish.
How to Make Everything Bagel Panko Cod Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light coating of oil to prevent sticking. This ensures your fish cooks evenly and the coating stays crisp, not soggy.
Step 2: Mix the Wet and Dry Coatings
In a small bowl, stir together the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt, if you’re going for a lighter touch) and Dijon mustard. In a separate bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with the everything bagel seasoning. These are your main flavor layers for the Everything Bagel Panko Cod Recipe.
Step 3: Season and Coat the Cod
Pat your cod fillets dry with paper towels—this is key for crispy results! Sprinkle each fillet with a little salt and pepper. Then, brush the top and sides generously with the mayo-mustard mixture, making sure every surface is covered.
Step 4: Press on the Crunchy Coating
One at a time, press the mayo-coated sides of each fillet into the panko-everything bagel mixture. Don’t be shy! Really press to help the coating stick and create that signature crunch you’re after in the Everything Bagel Panko Cod Recipe.
Step 5: Arrange and Bake
Place each coated fillet on your prepared baking sheet. For an extra golden, crispy finish, lightly drizzle or mist the tops with olive oil. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the coating is golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork. The aroma alone will have everyone running to the table!
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Transfer your crispy cod to plates, sprinkle with chopped parsley for a pop of color, and serve with lemon wedges. A final squeeze of lemon brings everything to life—don’t skip it!
How to Serve Everything Bagel Panko Cod Recipe
Garnishes
Bright, fresh garnishes really elevate this dish. A handful of chopped parsley adds color and a fresh note, while lemon wedges let everyone add just the right amount of citrusy zing to their plate. If you want to get a little fancy, a light sprinkle of extra everything bagel seasoning on top delivers even more flavor and eye appeal.
Side Dishes
This fish is a natural with a variety of sides! For a classic combo, try roasted seasonal veggies or a crisp green salad. Rice pilaf, herbed quinoa, or even simple buttered noodles round out the meal beautifully. The bold flavors of the Everything Bagel Panko Cod Recipe pair especially well with sides that have a bit of brightness or crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not think outside the plate? Layer the crispy cod over a bed of baby spinach and arugula for a restaurant-worthy salad. Or tuck the fillets into warm brioche buns with a dollop of lemony yogurt sauce for a playful, gourmet fish sandwich. However you serve it, this recipe is a showstopper!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you end up with leftovers (which is rare in my house!), store the cooled Everything Bagel Panko Cod Recipe fillets in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 days, though the coating may lose some crispness.
Freezing
To freeze, let the cooked cod cool completely, then wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to one month. For best results, reheat straight from frozen using the instructions below for maximum crunch.
Reheating
To bring back that crispy coating, reheat the cod fillets in a 375°F (190°C) oven or toaster oven for about 10 minutes, or until heated through and the topping is crunchy again. Avoid microwaving if you can—it tends to soften the panko crust.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cod?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the cod fillets fully and pat them dry before coating. Excess moisture can prevent the panko from getting nice and crispy.
What if I don’t have everything bagel seasoning?
No problem. You can make your own blend with sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried minced garlic, dried minced onion, and a pinch of flaky salt. It’s a quick DIY fix for the Everything Bagel Panko Cod Recipe.
Is there a gluten-free option?
Yes, simply swap in your favorite gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and make sure your everything bagel seasoning doesn’t contain any gluten-containing additives. The recipe turns out just as delicious!
Can I use another type Main Course
Definitely. This coating works beautifully on other mild, flaky white fish like haddock, tilapia, or pollock. Just adjust baking time if your fillets are thinner or thicker than cod.
What’s the best way to get the coating to stick?
The key is to thoroughly pat the fish dry and generously brush on the mayo-mustard mixture before dredging in the panko. Press the coating firmly onto the fish to help it adhere and form a crunchy crust.
Final Thoughts
This Everything Bagel Panko Cod Recipe is a weeknight hero—quick, packed with flavor, and guaranteed to please even picky eaters. Give it a try and watch it earn a permanent place in your dinner rotation!
Print
Everything Bagel Panko Cod Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A crispy and flavorful baked cod recipe coated with a zesty everything bagel seasoning and crunchy panko breadcrumbs, served with lemon wedges and optional parsley garnish for a fresh finish.
Ingredients
Fish and Coating
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons everything bagel seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Binding Mixture
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Optional
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for extra crispiness)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
- Chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Mayo-Mustard Mix: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise or Greek yogurt with Dijon mustard, mixing well until smooth to create the binding sauce for the coating.
- Mix the Coating: In a separate bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with the everything bagel seasoning, ensuring the seasoning is evenly distributed throughout the panko.
- Season Cod Fillets: Pat the cod fillets dry using paper towels to remove excess moisture, then lightly season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Coat the Fish: Brush the mayo-mustard mixture onto the top and sides of each fillet evenly. Then, firmly press the coated areas into the seasoned panko mixture so the crumbs adhere well.
- Arrange for Baking: Place the coated fillets on the prepared baking sheet. For an extra crispy texture, drizzle or lightly mist the fillets with olive oil.
- Bake: Bake the fillets for 12 to 15 minutes until the coating is golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork, indicating it is cooked through.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges on the side to squeeze over.
Notes
- Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs to make the dish suitable for gluten-free diets.
- Pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, green salad, or rice pilaf for a balanced meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 460mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 31g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
