18 Crispy Fried Cod Recipes for Seafood Lovers

Posted on April 6, 2025

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Are you a seafood lover looking for a delicious and satisfying meal? Look no further! Crispy fried cod is a classic favorite that never goes out of style. With its tender flesh and crunchy exterior, it’s a dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. In this article, we’ll be diving into 18 mouth-watering crispy fried cod recipes that are perfect for seafood enthusiasts.

From traditional beer-battered options to innovative flavor combinations like coconut-crusted with mango salsa, there’s something on this list for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, these recipes are sure to inspire your next culinary adventure. So grab your apron and get ready to dive into the world of crispy fried cod!

Classic Beer-Battered Fried Cod

Classic Beer-Battered Fried Cod
Experience the simplicity of a traditional pub-style cod dish with this easy-to-make recipe.

Ingredients:
• 1 pound cod fillets, cut into desired pieces
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup cold beer (any type)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and paprika.
2. Gradually add the beer, stirring until the batter forms a thick, smooth paste.
3. Season cod pieces with salt and pepper.
4. Dip each cod piece into the batter, coating evenly, then gently place in hot oil (375°F).
5. Fry for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
7. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as tartar sauce, lemon wedges, or coleslaw.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Spicy Cajun Fried Cod with Remoulade Sauce

Spicy Cajun Fried Cod with Remoulade Sauce
Spicy Cajun Fried Cod with Remoulade Sauce: A flavorful twist on traditional fried cod, this recipe combines the bold flavors of cajun spices and remoulade sauce for a mouth-watering treat.

Ingredients:

– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Remoulade Sauce (recipe below)

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each cod fillet in the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
5. Fry cod for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Serve with Remoulade Sauce (recipe below).

Remoulade Sauce:

– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tbsp ketchup
– 1 tsp prepared mustard
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste

Mix all ingredients together in a bowl until smooth. Serve chilled.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes total, including frying time.

Lemon-Herb Panko Fried Cod

Lemon-Herb Panko Fried Cod
Lemon-Herb Panko Fried Cod Recipe

A bright and citrusy twist on traditional cod fritters, this recipe combines the flaky fish with a zesty lemon-herb panko crust for a delightful dinner.

Ingredients:

– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp chopped fresh dill
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, lemon juice, parsley, dill, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each cod fillet into the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the coated cod for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Drain the cod on paper towels and serve hot.

Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes

Garlic Butter Fried Cod with Crispy Skin

Garlic Butter Fried Cod with Crispy Skin
Elevate your seafood game with this mouthwatering garlic butter fried cod recipe, featuring crispy skin that’s sure to please. This simple yet flavorful dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse cod fillets under cold water; pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a shallow dish, mix flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Dip each cod fillet in the flour mixture, coating both sides evenly.
5. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
6. Add coated cod fillets to the skillet; cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
7. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until cooked through.
8. Serve with lemon wedges and enjoy!

Cooking Time: approximately 15-20 minutes

Southern-Style Buttermilk Fried Cod

Southern-Style Buttermilk Fried Cod
A Southern twist on traditional fried cod, this recipe combines the crunch of buttermilk-soaked breading with the tenderness of flaky fish. Perfect for a quick and delicious dinner or lunch.

Ingredients:

– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 tsp hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, whisk together buttermilk, hot sauce, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add the cod fillets to the buttermilk mixture; marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
4. Remove the cod from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off.
5. Dredge the cod fillets in flour, shaking off excess.
6. Fry the cod for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Drain on paper towels; serve hot.

Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes

Coconut-Crusted Fried Cod with Mango Salsa

Coconut-Crusted Fried Cod with Mango Salsa
Elevate your seafood game with this tropical twist on classic fish and chips. Crispy coconut crust meets tender cod, paired with a sweet and tangy mango salsa.

Ingredients:

For the cod:

– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying

For the mango salsa:

– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, coconut, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
4. Dip each cod fillet into the buttermilk, then coat in the coconut-panko mixture.
5. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the cod for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Transfer to a baking sheet and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until crispy.
7. Meanwhile, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño, and lime juice in a bowl. Season with salt to taste.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Air Fryer Crispy Fried Cod

Air Fryer Crispy Fried Cod
Get ready to enjoy a guilt-free twist on your favorite fried fish recipe! This Air Fryer Crispy Fried Cod is a game-changer, with its crispy exterior and tender interior.

Ingredients:

– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Air Fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the cod fillets and pat them dry with paper towels.
3. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, olive oil, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
4. Dip each cod fillet into the breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly.
5. Place the coated cod fillets in a single layer in the Air Fryer basket.
6. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
7. Remove from the Air Fryer when cooked through and crispy on the outside.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Fish and Chips-Style Fried Cod

Fish and Chips-Style Fried Cod
Get ready for a taste of the British coast with this easy-to-make fish and chips-style fried cod recipe! This classic comfort food is a crowd-pleaser, and can be on your table in no time.

Ingredients:

– 4 cod fillets (about 1 inch thick)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Lemon wedges and tartar sauce for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each cod fillet into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the coated cod for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot with lemon wedges and tartar sauce (if desired).

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes total.

Cornmeal-Crusted Fried Cod with Tartar Sauce

Cornmeal-Crusted Fried Cod with Tartar Sauce
This Southern-inspired recipe combines the tender flaky fish of cod with a crunchy cornmeal crust and a creamy tartar sauce for dipping. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
– Tartar sauce ingredients:
+ 1/2 cup mayonnaise
+ 1/4 cup chopped pickle relish
+ 1 tablespoon lemon juice
+ 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together cornmeal, panko breadcrumbs, and paprika.
3. Season cod fillets with salt. Dip each fillet in the cornmeal mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry coated cod for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Place fried cod on a baking sheet and keep warm in the oven while preparing tartar sauce.
6. Mix all tartar sauce ingredients together in a bowl.
7. Serve fried cod with tartar sauce for dipping.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including frying and warming time)

Asian-Inspired Sesame Fried Cod

Asian-Inspired Sesame Fried Cod
Experience the bold flavors of Asia with this simple yet impressive sesame-crusted cod recipe. Pan-seared to a golden crisp, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp sesame seeds
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
– Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, sesame seeds, and grated ginger.
2. Dip each cod fillet into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Fry the coated cod for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. Drizzle with soy sauce mixture (soy sauce, honey, and red pepper flakes) and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Parmesan-Crusted Fried Cod with Lemon Aioli

Parmesan-Crusted Fried Cod with Lemon Aioli
This recipe combines the crispy goodness of fried cod with the brightness of lemon aioli, all wrapped up in a parmesan crust. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon Aioli (recipe below)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each cod fillet in the beaten egg, then coat in breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry cod for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
5. Transfer cod to a baking sheet and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until cooked through.

Lemon Aioli:

– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste

Mix all ingredients together in a bowl until smooth. Serve with Parmesan-Crusted Fried Cod.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Blackened Fried Cod with Avocado Crema

Blackened Fried Cod with Avocado Crema
Elevate your fish game with this mouthwatering combination of crispy blackened cod and creamy avocado crema.

Ingredients:

– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Dip each cod fillet into the flour mixture, coating evenly.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry cod for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown.
4. In a separate bowl, combine diced avocado, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well to form crema.
5. Serve blackened cod with Avocado Crema spooned on top.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Tempura-Style Fried Cod with Sweet Chili Sauce

Tempura-Style Fried Cod with Sweet Chili Sauce
Experience the crispy, flavorful delight of Japanese tempura-style fried cod, paired with a tangy and sweet chili sauce. This simple recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound cod fillets, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Sweet Chili Sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Dip cod pieces into the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Fry cod in hot oil (350°F) for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
4. Remove cod from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
5. Serve fried cod with Sweet Chili Sauce and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.

Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes

Herb-Crusted Fried Cod with Garlic Mayo

Herb-Crusted Fried Cod with Garlic Mayo
Elevate your seafood game with this crispy and flavorful herb-crusted cod, served with a creamy garlic mayo dipping sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.

Ingredients:

– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp dried dill weed
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Garlic Mayo (see below)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, parsley, dill weed, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each cod fillet into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry cod for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Serve hot with Garlic Mayo (see below).

Garlic Mayo:

– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Mix all ingredients together in a bowl. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes total (frying time is about 8-10 minutes)

Gluten-Free Almond Flour Fried Cod

Gluten-Free Almond Flour Fried Cod
This recipe offers a crispy and flavorful twist on traditional fried cod, using almond flour instead of wheat-based breading for a gluten-free option.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound cod fillets, cut into nugget-sized pieces
– 1 cup almond flour
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 2 eggs
– Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, mix together almond flour, panko breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
2. In a separate dish, beat the eggs until well combined.
3. Dip each cod piece into the eggs, then coat in the almond flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the cod for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Cooking Time: About 8-10 minutes total, depending on the thickness of your cod pieces.

Jamaican Jerk Fried Cod with Pineapple Salsa

Jamaican Jerk Fried Cod with Pineapple Salsa
Experience the bold flavors of Jamaica with this mouth-watering combination of crispy fried cod and sweet-tangy pineapple salsa. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.

Ingredients:

For the Jerk Seasoning:

– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder

For the Cod:

– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– Vegetable oil for frying

For the Pineapple Salsa:

– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning ingredients.
3. Dredge cod fillets in jerk seasoning mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Fry cod in hot oil until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
5. For the salsa, combine pineapple chunks, red onion, jalapeño pepper, and lime juice in a bowl. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve fried cod with pineapple salsa spooned over the top.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Smoky Paprika Fried Cod with Romesco Sauce

Smoky Paprika Fried Cod with Romesco Sauce
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and aromatic dish, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. Crispy cod fillets are smothered in a spicy paprika crust and served with a rich and nutty romesco sauce.

Ingredients:

– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Romesco sauce (see below)

Romesco Sauce:

– 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup almonds, toasted and chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, mix flour, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip cod fillets in buttermilk, then coat in flour mixture.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry cod for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Serve with Romesco sauce.

Cooking time: 15-20 minutes

Lemon-Pepper Fried Cod with Dill Yogurt Dip

Lemon-Pepper Fried Cod with Dill Yogurt Dip
Brighten up your mealtime with this refreshing and flavorful recipe, featuring crispy fried cod topped with a zesty lemon-pepper crust, served with a tangy dill yogurt dip.

Ingredients:

For the cod:

– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp lemon pepper
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil

For the dill yogurt dip:

– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, lemon pepper, and panko breadcrumbs.
3. Dip each cod fillet in the flour mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry coated cod for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown.
5. Transfer fried cod to a baking sheet and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, mix together yogurt, chopped dill, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
7. Serve crispy fried cod with the tangy dill yogurt dip and a squeeze of lemon juice (if desired). Enjoy!

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Summary

Cook up a storm with these 18 crispy fried cod recipes that will tantalize your taste buds! From classic beer-battered to adventurous Asian-inspired and spicy Cajun-style, there’s something for every seafood lover. Try making garlic butter fried cod with crispy skin, or go southern-style with buttermilk battered goodness. Coconut-crusted cod with mango salsa is a tropical twist you won’t want to miss. And for the tech-savvy, air fryer recipes are also included! Whatever your flavor preference, these recipes will have you hooked from the very first bite.

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