This recipe elevates simple cod to a restaurant-quality dish, all from the comfort of your own kitchen. Baked cod with sour cream and parmesan is incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and even less time. The result? Flaky, moist cod bathed in a creamy, tangy, and subtly cheesy sauce that's simply irresistible. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, impressing everyone with its sophisticated flavors and effortless elegance.
Why This Recipe Works
This baked cod recipe stands out because of its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The delicate cod fillets are perfectly complemented by the tangy sour cream, the sharp parmesan, and a hint of fresh herbs. Baking the cod ensures it remains incredibly moist and flaky, while the sauce thickens beautifully in the oven. Unlike pan-fried cod, this method requires minimal cleanup, leaving you more time to enjoy your delicious meal.
What You'll Need
- 1.5 lbs cod fillets: Look for thick, firm fillets for optimal results. Skin-on or skinless works equally well.
- 1 cup sour cream: Full-fat sour cream provides the richest and creamiest sauce.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan tastes best.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice: This brightens the flavors and adds acidity.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill: Or use 1 teaspoon dried dill.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: For a subtle garlic flavor.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste.
- Optional: 1 tablespoon of butter for extra richness, and a sprinkle of paprika for a touch of color.
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish (approximately 9x13 inches) or individual ramekins.
- Prepare the sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the sour cream, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, dill, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. If using, add the butter and paprika.
- Prepare the cod: Gently place the cod fillets in the prepared baking dish.
- Top with the sauce: Pour the sour cream mixture evenly over the cod fillets, ensuring they are coated.
- Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of your fillets.
- Serve: Serve immediately. Garnish with extra dill or a squeeze of lemon juice, if desired.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a variety of sides to create a complete and satisfying meal. Some excellent options include:
- Roasted vegetables: Asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts roasted with olive oil and herbs.
- Simple salad: A green salad with a light vinaigrette.
- Rice or quinoa: A healthy and flavorful side dish.
- Garlic bread: A classic pairing for creamy dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use other types of white fish?
Yes, this recipe works well with other firm white fish, such as halibut, snapper, or tilapia. Adjust the cooking time as needed, depending on the thickness of the fish.
What if I don't have fresh dill?
Dried dill is a great substitute for fresh dill. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried dill for every tablespoon of fresh dill.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use. However, it's best to bake the cod just before serving to ensure it remains moist and flaky.
How do I know if the cod is cooked through?
The cod is cooked through when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout.
Can I freeze this dish?
While this dish is best served fresh, you can freeze the cooked cod separately from the sauce. Reheat gently before serving. The sauce may separate upon thawing.
This baked cod recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a simple yet sophisticated meal that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!
