If you’re looking to impress with a delightful seafood dish, this stuffed cod with crab meat is your answer. It’s a fantastic way to showcase the delicate flavors of cod while adding a touch of elegance to your dinner table. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a weekend treat, this recipe is sure to make an impression.
Imagine perfectly baked cod fillets, tender and flaky, filled with a rich crab meat stuffing that has just the right amount of seasoning. The combination of the mild fish and the sweet, succulent crab elevates this dish to something truly special. It’s like a taste of the ocean on your plate.
Overview of Stuffed Cod
Stuffed cod is a dish that beautifully balances the delicate flavors of flaky white fish with the richness of crab meat. This combination creates a dining experience that is both satisfying and sophisticated.
When prepared thoughtfully, the cod fillets not only serve as a canvas for the savory crab filling but also showcase the natural textures and colors of both the fish and the seafood. Each bite reveals layers of flavor that highlight the quality of the ingredients.
Ingredients That Shine
The key to a memorable stuffed cod lies in its ingredients. Fresh cod fillets are essential, providing a mild backdrop for the star of the show: crab meat. The addition of cream cheese and breadcrumbs creates a creamy, cohesive stuffing that holds together while baking.
Seasoning plays a crucial role in elevating the dish. Ingredients like Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and a splash of lemon juice enhance the flavor of the crab, ensuring that each mouthful bursts with taste. Green onions add a fresh crunch, rounding out the stuffing beautifully.
Preparation Steps
Preparing stuffed cod begins with creating the crab filling. By combining the crab meat with cream cheese, breadcrumbs, and seasonings, you create a mixture that is both rich and light. It’s important to blend these ingredients well to ensure an even distribution of flavor.
Once the filling is ready, the cod fillets are placed on a baking sheet, waiting to be topped generously with the crab mixture. It’s recommended to press the mixture gently onto the fish to help it adhere during baking.
Baking to Perfection
When it comes to baking, preheating the oven sets the stage for even cooking. As the cod bakes, the heat transforms the filling into a golden crust while the fish becomes tender and flaky.
Monitoring the cooking time is vital. A well-baked cod should flake easily with a fork, indicating that it’s reached the desired doneness. This process not only enhances the dish’s flavors but also ensures that the presentation is as appealing as the taste.
Serving Suggestions
Presentation can elevate the entire dining experience. Once the stuffed cod is out of the oven, consider garnishing it with fresh herbs and lemon wedges. These simple additions not only look beautiful but also complement the flavors of the dish.
To serve, place the stuffed cod on a plate that allows the vibrant colors to stand out. The golden crust of crab meat against the white fillet creates a striking visual that invites enjoyment even before the first bite.
Nutritional Information
This dish not only delights the palate but also offers a nutritious option for seafood lovers. With a balance of protein and healthy fats, stuffed cod can fit into a variety of dietary preferences.
Each serving provides a satisfying meal with a pleasant amount of calories, making it a wise choice for those looking to indulge without overindulging. The benefits of fresh seafood, combined with the richness of crab meat, make this dish both a treat and a healthy option.
Delicious Stuffed Cod with Crab Meat Recipe
This stuffed cod dish features flaky cod fillets filled with a seasoned crab meat mixture, baked to perfection for a flavorful and satisfying meal. It’s a great source of protein and brings a taste of the sea to your dining experience.
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets
- 1 cup crab meat, cooked and shredded
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the crab meat, breadcrumbs, cream cheese, green onions, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until combined.
- Stuff the Cod: Place the cod fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Carefully spoon the crab mixture onto each fillet, pressing it gently to adhere.
- Drizzle Olive Oil: Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed cod to keep it moist during baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve: Plate the stuffed cod and garnish with additional green onions or lemon wedges, if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
