Parmesan Baked Fish Nuggets

If you’re in the mood for a quick and delicious dinner that the whole family will love, look no further than these Parmesan Baked Fish Nuggets. Made with tender, flaky cod and coated in a crispy, savory Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, these nuggets are not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a fun addition to your next gathering, these nuggets are a healthier alternative to traditional fried fish. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!

Why This Recipe Is Reliable

This recipe for Parmesan Baked Fish Nuggets is reliable for several reasons. First, it uses just a handful of ingredients that are easy to find in any grocery store. Second, the baking method gives you that satisfying crunch without the need for deep frying, making it a healthier option. Finally, the versatility of this dish allows for customization based on your flavor preferences, ensuring that you can make it your own. Whether you enjoy them as a snack, in a sandwich, or with a side of vegetables, these fish nuggets are sure to impress.

What We’re Using

For this recipe, we’ll need the following ingredients:

• 8 oz (230g) frozen cod – Thawed and cut into nugget pieces. Cod is a mild and flaky fish that works perfectly for this recipe.
• 1 cup panko bread crumbs – These Japanese-style breadcrumbs create an extra crispy coating.
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a rich and savory flavor to the nuggets.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil – Helps the breadcrumbs crisp up nicely while baking.
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour – Used for dredging the fish before the egg wash.
• 2 large eggs – Lightly beaten to help the breadcrumbs adhere to the fish.
• Cooking spray – For preventing the nuggets from sticking to the baking sheet.

Tools & Equipment Needed

To make these Parmesan Baked Fish Nuggets, you will need the following tools:

• Baking sheet – To bake the fish nuggets.
• Parchment paper – Optional but helps with easy cleanup.
• Three shallow bowls – For the flour, egg wash, and breadcrumb mixture.
• Whisk – To beat the eggs.
• Knife and cutting board – For cutting the fish into nugget pieces.

Parmesan Baked Fish Nuggets — Do This Next

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your nuggets will bake evenly and become golden brown.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray it lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Set Up the Dredging Station

In one shallow bowl, place the all-purpose flour. In a second bowl, beat the eggs until combined. In a third bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and salt.

Step 4: Dredge the Fish Nuggets

Take a piece of thawed cod and coat it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off before transferring it to the breadcrumb mixture. Press down gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere well. Repeat this process for all the fish pieces.

Step 5: Arrange on the Baking Sheet

Place the coated fish nuggets on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, making sure they aren’t touching.

Step 6: Drizzle with Oil

Drizzle the vegetable oil over the nuggets, which will help them to crisp up beautifully in the oven.

Step 7: Bake

Bake the fish nuggets in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. You can flip them halfway through to ensure even browning.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Once done, remove the nuggets from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. These Parmesan Baked Fish Nuggets are best enjoyed warm, possibly paired with your favorite dipping sauce!

Holiday & Seasonal Touches

Enhance your Parmesan Baked Fish Nuggets with seasonal touches:

• Add lemon zest to the breadcrumb mixture for a refreshing citrus flavor.
• Serve with a homemade tartar sauce made from Greek yogurt, dill, and pickles.
• Incorporate seasonal herbs like dill or parsley into the breadcrumb mixture for added freshness.
• Pair with roasted seasonal vegetables for a wholesome meal.

Testing Timeline

To ensure your Parmesan Baked Fish Nuggets turn out perfectly, consider this testing timeline:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

For meal prep and storage:

You can prepare the fish nuggets ahead of time. After coating the fish, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. When ready to cook, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

• Leftover cooked nuggets can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes to maintain crispiness.

Quick Q&A

Can I use a different type of fish?

Yes! While cod is a great choice, you can substitute with other white fish like haddock or tilapia for similar results.

Can I make these nuggets gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to make these Parmesan Baked Fish Nuggets gluten-free.

What dipping sauces pair well with these nuggets?

These nuggets are delicious with tartar sauce, aioli, or even a spicy sriracha mayo for those who enjoy a kick.

Can I bake them from frozen?

Yes, you can bake the frozen nuggets directly from the freezer. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked.

Quick Weeknight Wins

For more quick and easy meal ideas, check out these delicious recipes:

• Garlic Parmesan Mussel Pasta – A delightful seafood pasta dish.
• Garlic Parmesan Chicken Alfredo Bake – Creamy and comforting chicken alfredo.
• Crispy Chicken Parmesan – A classic chicken dish with a crispy twist.

Bring It Home

The beauty of these Parmesan Baked Fish Nuggets lies not only in their taste but also in their versatility. You can serve them as a main dish, in a sandwich, or even as an appetizer. The crispy, cheesy coating provides a satisfying crunch that will surely please both kids and adults alike.

As you gather around the table with your loved ones, these nuggets will not only fill your stomachs but also warm your hearts. So, roll up your sleeves and give this recipe a try. You’ll discover just how simple and rewarding it is to make your own crispy fish nuggets at home. Enjoy every bite!