With flaky white fish, a good dollop of pesto, and a crunchy breadcrumb topping – this cod in pesto breadcrumbs is cooked to perfection in the air fryer. It’s simple, full of flavour, and perfect for busy evenings when you still want something that feels like a treat.
And the best part? It only takes about 15 minutes and a handful of ingredients to put together.
How To Make Air Fryer Cod in Pesto Breadcrumbs
For more concise ingredients and instructions, or to print the recipe out, please head to the recipe card at the bottom of the page.
What You Need
Cod Fillets
You’ll need two skinless, boneless cod fillets – fresh or frozen.
Green Pesto
Jarred pesto works perfectly here, but you can also make your own (see below for the homemade version). Choose a basil pesto for that classic flavour, or try a twist with rocket or spinach.
Panko Breadcrumbs
These light, crispy Japanese breadcrumbs are perfect for getting that golden, crunchy topping. Use 2 to 4 tablespoons, depending on how much crunch you want.
Grated Parmesan (Optional)
For a cheesy, savoury boost, sprinkle some Parmesan on top near the end of cooking. It adds a lovely depth of flavour.
Salt and Pepper
Just a light seasoning to enhance the natural flavours of the fish and pesto.
Lemon Wedges
Serve your cod with a wedge of lemon – it brightens the whole dish and complements the pesto beautifully.
Making It
Prep the Cod
Pat the cod dry with kitchen paper if using fresh or defrosted. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Add the Pesto
Spread 1 tablespoon of pesto on top of each fillet, making sure it’s evenly coated.
Sprinkle the panko breadcrumbs over the pesto and press down gently so they stick. Alternatively, you can mix the pesto and breadcrumbs in a bowl first, then spread the mixture on top.
Air Fry
Air fry at 200°C for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily. If cooking from frozen cook for an extra 2 to 4 minutes.
Note: time to cook might depend on the thickness of your cod as well as your air fryer.
Add Cheese
Optional: Sprinkle grated Parmesan on top of each fillet 2 minutes before the end of cooking for a golden, cheesy crust.
Serve
Serve hot with lemon wedges and your choice of sides. New potatoes, couscous, roasted veggies, or a light rocket salad all make great pairings.
Homemade Pesto Option
Want to make your own pesto? Here’s a quick version:
- 30g fresh basil leaves
- 1 small garlic clove
- 30g pine nuts (or walnuts)
- 30g grated Parmesan
- 60ml olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Blitz everything in a blender or food processor until smooth. Store in the fridge for up to a week.
Using Frozen Cod
Yes, you can cook frozen cod in the air fryer. Just make sure it’s not too thick, and pat away any excess ice before cooking. Add 2–4 extra minutes to the cooking time depending on thickness.
Tips & Variations
- Swap cod for haddock or salmon.
- Try using red pesto or sun-dried tomato pesto for a completely different flavour.
- Serve it with garlic butter poured over green beans, grilled asparagus or rice for a complete meal.
More Air Fryer Fish Recipes
Are you looking for more fish recipes to cook in your air fryer? Here is some inspiration for you to try.
- Simple Air Fryer Cod (seasoned with garlic and paprika)
- Air Fryer Cajun Garlic Butter Cod
- Air Fryer Thai Red Curry Salmon
- Air Fryer Salmon Bites
Air Fryer Cod in Pesto Breadcrumbs
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Ingredients
- 2 cod fillets skinless and boneless – fresh or frozen
- 2 tbsp green pesto* jarred or homemade
- 2 tbsp panko breadcrumbs*
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan* optional
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges to serve
Instructions
- Pat the cod fillets dry with kitchen paper (especially if defrosted). Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Spread 1 tablespoon of pesto over each fillet. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top, gently pressing them in so they stick. (Or mix the pesto and breadcrumbs in a bowl first, then spread the mixture over the fillets.)
- Air fry at 200°C for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily. If cooking from frozen cook for an extra 2 to 4 minutes. If using, sprinkle grated Parmesan on top 2 minutes before the end.
- Serve with lemon wedges and your favourite sides – try it with new potatoes, a couscous salad, or some roasted veg.
Notes
- Add more pesto, breadcrumbs and parmesan according to the size of the cod or personal taste.
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an estimate.