Keto Parmesan Crusted Cod with Lemon Dill Cream features flaky cod coated in a golden, crispy parmesan crust and paired with a bright, tangy lemon dill cream sauce. This easy, elegant low-carb dinner delivers fresh flavor, crunch, and richness—perfect for weeknights or light holiday meals.

About This Recipe

This Keto Parmesan Crusted Cod with Lemon Dill Cream is the perfect combination of light, fresh flavor and satisfying crispy texture—all while staying fully keto. Cod is naturally lean and delicate, making it an ideal base for a savory parmesan crust that turns golden and crisp in the pan. The result is a dish that feels restaurant-quality but is incredibly simple to prepare at home.

The crust is made from parmesan cheese and a touch of seasoning, creating a naturally low-carb coating that becomes wonderfully crisp when pan-fried. The cod stays tender and flaky inside while developing a savory, aromatic crust on the outside. It’s rich enough to feel special, but still light enough to enjoy as a weekday dinner.

The lemon dill cream is what takes this dish to the next level. It blends heavy cream, lemon juice, butter, garlic, and fresh dill into a smooth, tangy sauce that complements the mild flavor of the cod perfectly. The lemon brightens the dish, the dill adds freshness, and the cream gives it a velvety finish—creating the perfect balance of richness and acidity.

This dish works beautifully for holiday meals, seafood nights, or anytime you want a keto dinner that feels fresh and clean. It pairs well with roasted vegetables, cauliflower mash, or a crisp green salad. It also cooks quickly from start to finish, making it ideal for busy evenings without sacrificing flavor or presentation.

Whether you’re trying to incorporate more seafood into your keto diet or simply want a dish that feels both refreshing and satisfying, this parmesan-crusted cod with lemon dill cream delivers every single time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy parmesan crust with amazing texture
Fresh, bright lemon dill cream sauce
Light but satisfying keto-friendly dinner
Ready in under 20 minutes
Naturally low-carb and gluten-free
Elegant enough for holidays
Works with any white fish
Pairs with many keto sides

Ingredients

Parmesan Crusted Cod

2 cod fillets
1/2 cup grated parmesan
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp paprika
1/4 tsp salt
1/8 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil

Lemon Dill Cream

1/3 cup heavy cream
1 tbsp butter
1 tbsp lemon juice
1/2 tsp lemon zest
1 tbsp chopped fresh dill
Pinch of salt
Pinch of black pepper

Optional Toppings

Extra dill
Lemon wedges
Cracked black pepper

Instructions

Mix parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
Press cod fillets into the parmesan mixture to coat both sides.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Cook cod 3–4 minutes per side until golden and flaky.
In a small saucepan, melt butter, then stir in cream, lemon juice, zest, dill, salt, and pepper.
Simmer 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Serve cod topped with lemon dill cream and optional garnishes.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories: 390
Fat: 28g
Protein: 32g
Net Carbs: 2g

FAQ

Can I use a different fish?
Yes—halibut, tilapia, or haddock work well.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Not recommended due to the parmesan crust, but dairy-free cream and butter replacements can be used for the sauce.
Can I bake the cod instead?
Yes—400°F for 12–14 minutes.
Can I make the crust crispier?
Use finely grated parmesan and press it firmly onto the fish.
Can I use dried dill?
Yes—use 1 teaspoon instead of fresh.

Variations & Substitutions

Add minced garlic to the sauce for stronger flavor
Swap dill for parsley or chives
Add chili flakes for heat
Use ghee instead of butter for a richer taste
Add capers to the sauce for brininess

Serving Suggestions

Serve with roasted asparagus
Pair with cauliflower mash
Add a crisp green salad on the side

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