Save It A beloved New England classic, this baked cod features tender, flaky fish topped with a buttery, golden Ritz cracker crust—simple, comforting, and full of flavor.
This dish is a family favorite that reminds me of cozy New England dinners.
Ingredients
- Seafood: 4 cod fillets (5–6 oz each) skinless and boneless
- Topping: 1 1/2 cups Ritz crackers (about 1 sleeve) crushed
- Topping: 4 tbsp unsalted butter melted
- Topping: 1 tbsp fresh parsley finely chopped
- Topping: 1/2 tsp paprika
- Topping: Zest of 1 lemon
- Topping: Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- For Baking: 1/4 cup dry white wine (or fish stock)
- For Baking: Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a baking dish large enough to hold the cod fillets in a single layer.
- Prepare Cod:
- Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels, and season lightly with black pepper. Arrange them in the prepared baking dish.
- Mix Topping:
- In a bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers melted butter parsley paprika and lemon zest. Mix until the crumbs are evenly moistened.
- Apply Topping:
- Sprinkle the cracker mixture generously over each piece of cod pressing lightly to adhere.
- Add Liquid:
- Pour the white wine (or fish stock) around the fish in the baking dish being careful not to wet the topping.
- Bake:
- Bake for 18–20 minutes or until the cod flakes easily with a fork and the topping is golden brown.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Save It This recipe brings back memories of family dinners with warm smiles and full plates.
Notes
Pairs well with steamed green beans or roasted potatoes and a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.
Required Tools
Baking dish Mixing bowl Measuring cups and spoons Zester or grater Knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains Fish Wheat (Ritz crackers) Dairy (butter) If using store-bought crackers check labels for potential allergens such as soy or additional dairy.
Save It This baked cod recipe is an easy flavorful meal perfect for weeknights or special occasions.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of fish is recommended for this dish?
Cod fillets are preferred for their tender and flaky texture, but haddock or pollock can be used as alternatives.
- → How do you achieve a crispy topping?
The Ritz cracker crumbs combined with melted butter create a golden, crispy crust when baked at 400°F for 18-20 minutes.
- → Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?
You can assemble the fish and topping in advance and keep it refrigerated; bake just before serving for best texture.
- → What sides pair well with this meal?
Steamed green beans, roasted potatoes, and a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc nicely complement the flavors.
- → Is there a way to add extra tang to the topping?
Mixing a teaspoon of Dijon mustard into the melted butter before combining with cracker crumbs adds a pleasant tang.