Pin It A classic New England dish featuring tender, flaky cod fillets baked under a buttery, golden Ritz cracker crust. Perfect for a comforting weeknight meal or a special family dinner.
This dish always brings my family together for a comforting and delicious meal we all enjoy.
Ingredients
- Seafood: 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each) skinless and boneless patted dry
- Ritz Cracker Topping: 1 ½ cups Ritz cracker crumbs (about 1 sleeve crushed) 4 tbsp unsalted butter melted 2 tbsp fresh parsley finely chopped ½ tsp garlic powder ½ tsp paprika ¼ tsp black pepper ¼ tsp salt
- For Baking: 1 lemon sliced into wedges Cooking spray or extra butter for greasing
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) Lightly grease a baking dish large enough to hold the cod fillets in a single layer
- Prepare Cod:
- Arrange the cod fillets in the prepared baking dish Season both sides lightly with salt and pepper
- Make Topping:
- In a medium bowl combine the Ritz cracker crumbs melted butter parsley garlic powder paprika black pepper and salt Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and resemble wet sand
- Apply Topping:
- Press the cracker mixture evenly over the top of each cod fillet covering completely but not packing too tightly
- Bake:
- Bake for 18 20 minutes or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork and the topping is golden brown
- Serve:
- Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side
Pin It My family especially enjoys this meal during colder months when comfort food is a must
Serving Suggestions
Serve with steamed green beans mashed potatoes or a crisp salad
Wine Pairing
Pairs well with a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or light Chardonnay
Allergen Information
Contains fish cod dairy butter wheat gluten Ritz crackers Ritz crackers may contain soy check packaging if sensitive
Pin It This baked cod recipe is simple yet impressive making it perfect for any occasion
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of fish works best for this dish?
Skinless, boneless cod fillets are ideal due to their tender, flaky texture, but haddock or pollock make good alternatives.
- → How do I achieve a crispy Ritz cracker topping?
Combine crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter and seasonings, then press evenly over the fish before baking until golden brown.
- → Can I prepare this ahead of time?
You can assemble the fish and topping a few hours before baking, then refrigerate until ready to cook for fresh, crispy results.
- → What sides pair well with baked cod and Ritz topping?
Steamed green beans, mashed potatoes, or crisp salads balance the richness of the buttery crust and tender fish.
- → Are there ingredient substitutions for the topping?
For added flavor, grated Parmesan cheese can be mixed into the Ritz crumbs for a richer crust.