Some nights, I just need an easy win for dinner. You know, one of those meals that looks kinda fancy but takes almost zero effort? That’s exactly why I love making Air Fried Cod. It’s crispy, cheesy, and done in 15 minutes—perfect for when the kids are acting like they haven’t eaten in days (even though they just had a snack).
If you’ve never tried making Air Fryer Cod Fillets, you’re in for a treat. The air fryer gives you that golden, crunchy coating without deep frying, and the inside stays super tender and flaky. This is one of my go-to Air Fryer Fish Recipes because it’s quick, easy, and honestly? Even my pickiest eater will actually eat it without a fight. And trust me, that’s saying something.
This Air Fryer Cod Recipe is all about that crispy Parmesan and panko crust. The combo of crunchy breadcrumbs, melty cheese, and garlic seasoning makes this one of my favorite Cod Dinners ever. It’s basically like restaurant-style Breaded Cod Air Fryer but with way less work. And if you’re wondering how to cook cod in an air fryer, don’t worry—I’ve got all the steps laid out for you.
So if you’re on the hunt for Cod Fillet Recipes Air Fryer, an easy Recipe for Cod Fish, or just a way to get your family to actually eat fish without complaining, this one’s for you. Let’s make some Parmesan Crusted Cod Air Fryer style and call it a win!
What You’ll Need
Here’s what you need for this crispy, golden fish:
- 2 cod fillets (or honestly, any white fish—tilapia, halibut, even salmon works)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko makes it extra crispy)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg (this helps everything stick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter (for extra crispiness)
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Trust me, it makes a difference. If you skip this, your fish might cook unevenly, and nobody wants that.
Step 2: Mix the Crispy Coating
In a bowl, mix together Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This is the magic that makes the crust so flavorful.
Step 3: Dip the Fish in Egg
Crack the egg into another bowl and give it a quick whisk. Dip each cod fillet into the egg, making sure it’s fully coated. This is what makes the crispy crust actually stick, so don’t skip this step.
Step 4: Coat in Parmesan Mixture
Take the egg-coated fish and press it into the Parmesan-breadcrumb mix, making sure every inch is covered. Press it on there well—this is what gives it that crunchy, cheesy crust.
Step 5: Air Fry It to Crispy Perfection
Place the fish in your air fryer basket and lightly spray the top with cooking spray (optional, but helps it get extra crispy). Cook for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through. You’ll know it’s done when the crust is golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Take it out and squeeze some fresh lemon on top for extra flavor. Serve with tartar sauce, garlic aioli, or just eat it as is.
Why You’ll Love It
- Super crispy with no deep-frying mess
- Ready in 15 minutes
- Even picky eaters will eat it
FAQs for Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Cod
Can I use a different type of fish?
Absolutely! This recipe works great for any mild white fish, like tilapia, haddock, or halibut. You can even try it with salmon for a twist.
Can I bake this instead of air frying?
Yep! If you want Parmesan Crusted Cod Baked style, bake it at 425°F for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway. It won’t be quite as crispy as the Breaded Fish in Air Fryer, but it’ll still taste great.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5 minutes to crisp them back up.
How do I make sure my cod gets crispy?
For the crispiest Panko Cod Air Fryer style fish, make sure to:
Pat the fish dry before breading it.
Press the coating on firmly so it sticks.
Lightly spray the top with cooking oil before air frying.
Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Cod Recipe Card
Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Cod
Ingredients
- 2 cod fillets fresh or thawed
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup breadcrumbs panko preferred
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F.
- Mix the coating by combining Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Prepare the egg wash by whisking the egg in a separate bowl.
- Coat the fish by dipping each cod fillet in the egg, then pressing it into the Parmesan mixture, ensuring full coverage.
- Air fry the fillets for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. The fish is done when it’s golden brown and flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve immediately with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
Tips for Best Results:
- Pat the fish dry before coating to help the breading stick.
- Lightly spray with cooking oil before air frying for extra crispiness.
- Works with other white fish like tilapia or haddock.
And that’s it—easy, crispy, and so dang good! This Air Fryer Cod Recipe has quickly become one of my go-to Cod Dinners because it’s just that simple. I mean, who doesn’t love a 15-minute meal that actually tastes like something you’d order at a restaurant? Plus, with that crispy Parmesan Crusted Cod Air Fryer crust, even the pickiest eaters in my house don’t complain. A true mom win.
If you’ve been wondering how to cook cod in an air fryer, now you know—it’s crazy easy. Whether you’re making Air Fried Cod Fillets for a quick dinner, trying new Air Fryer Fish Recipes, or just looking for a no-fail Recipe for Cod Fish, this one is a keeper. And if you love extra crunch, try Panko Cod Air Fryer style or go full Parmesan Crusted Cod Baked in the oven.
So next time you need a fast, no-fuss meal, grab some cod and toss it in the air fryer. Trust me, this will be on repeat in your house too. Let me know if you try it—I’d love to hear how your Breaded Fish in Air Fryer turns out!
