Save to Pinterest 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 recipe has been a family favorite for years, bringing warmth and nostalgia to every dinner table.
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.
- Make 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 to Pinterest This dish is always a hit at family dinners and is especially treasured during the holidays.
Required Tools
Baking dish, mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, zester or grater, knife and cutting board are needed to prepare this recipe efficiently.
Allergen Information
Contains fish, wheat (Ritz crackers), and dairy (butter). If using store-bought crackers, check labels for potential allergens such as soy or additional dairy.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 325, Total Fat 14 g, Carbohydrates 22 g, Protein 29 g.
Save to Pinterest This baked cod with Ritz cracker topping is a simple yet elegant meal perfect for any occasion.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of fish is best for this dish?
Skinless, boneless cod fillets work best for their flaky texture, but haddock or pollock are good alternatives.
- → How do I make the topping crispy?
Mix crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter and press the mixture firmly onto the fish before baking to achieve a crispy, golden crust.
- → Can I add extra flavor to the crust?
Yes, adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the butter mixture enhances the crust's tang and depth of flavor.
- → What is the purpose of the white wine in baking?
Pouring white wine or fish stock around the fish helps keep it moist during baking and adds subtle flavor.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
Steamed green beans, roasted potatoes, and a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complement this dish beautifully.