Pin it This dish transforms simple cod fillets into something special with a crunchy, buttery cracker crumb topping. The contrast between tender, flaky fish and the golden, seasoned crust creates a satisfying main dish that comes together quickly.
The crumb mixture combines buttery crackers, fresh parsley, garlic powder, and bright lemon zest for maximum flavor. After just 20 minutes in the oven, you'll have perfectly cooked fish with a crisp topping that appeals to both adults and kids alike.
The aroma of buttery crackers toasting in the oven always pulls me into the kitchen, no matter what else I am doing. My mother started making this cracker-crusted cod when I was young, and it is still the fish recipe that gets requested most often. There is something magical about how the crumb topping turns golden and creates this incredible texture contrast.
I once served this at a dinner party where my friend Sarah claimed she hated fish, but she went back for a third helping. The secret is that the buttery cracker crust reminds people of comfort food while the cod stays tender and mild. It is the kind of dish that makes people reconsider what they think they do not like.
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets: Fresh fillets work best, but frozen thawed completely will also give you great results
- Salt and pepper: Simple seasoning lets the fish shine while the crumb topping provides most of the flavor
- Buttery crackers: Ritz crackers are my go to choice because they create such a beautifully golden crust
- Unsalted butter: Melted butter binds the crumb mixture together and helps it toast perfectly
- Fresh parsley: Adds bright color and a fresh herbal note that cuts through the richness
- Garlic powder: Provides subtle garlic flavor without the risk of burning that fresh garlic might have
- Lemon zest: Brightens the entire dish and complements the mild sweetness of the cod
- Olive oil: Prevents the fish from sticking to the baking dish
Instructions
- Prep your oven and baking dish:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F and lightly grease your baking dish with olive oil so the fish will release easily later
- Season the cod:
- Pat each fillet completely dry with paper towels, then season both sides generously with salt and pepper before placing them in the dish
- Make the crumb topping:
- Crush the crackers into coarse crumbs and toss them with melted butter, parsley, garlic powder, and lemon zest until everything is evenly coated
- Top the fish:
- Press the crumb mixture gently onto each fillet, making sure to cover the fish completely for maximum crunch in every bite
- Bake until golden:
- Bake for 18 to 20 minutes until the fish flakes easily and the topping is a deep golden brown
Pin it This recipe became a Friday night staple during a particularly hectic year when I needed something satisfying but fast. My kids started requesting it every week, and now it feels like an old friend in our meal rotation.
Choosing the Right Fish
While cod is traditional here, I have discovered that haddock works beautifully too. The key is selecting fillets that are roughly the same thickness so everything finishes cooking at the same time.
Getting That Perfect Crust
I learned the hard way that leaving too much moisture on the fish prevents the crumbs from sticking properly. Take the extra time to pat the fillets really dry, and your crust will stay put beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
A squeeze of fresh lemon right before serving wakes up all the flavors and cuts through the buttery topping. This pairs wonderfully with steamed asparagus or roasted green beans.
- Keep extra lemon wedges on the table so guests can add more acidity to taste
- A simple arugula salad with vinaigrette balances the richness perfectly
- Leftovers reheat surprisingly well in the toaster oven to maintain the crunch
Pin it This recipe proves that simple ingredients, treated with care, can create something truly special. Enjoy that first bite of crunchy, buttery goodness.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What fish works best for this dish?
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Cod is ideal for its mild flavor and flaky texture, but haddock, pollock, or even tilapia make excellent substitutes. Look for fillets that are about 6 ounces each and roughly equal in thickness for even cooking.
- → Can I make the cracker topping ahead of time?
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Yes, you can crush the crackers and mix them with the seasonings up to a day in advance. Store the mixture in an airtight container at room temperature. Add the melted butter just before you're ready to top and bake the fish.
- → How do I know when the fish is done?
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The cod is fully cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 145°F. The cracker topping should be golden brown. Start checking at 18 minutes to avoid overcooking.
- → What type of crackers should I use?
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Buttery round crackers like Ritz work beautifully for their rich flavor and crisp texture. Saltine crackers are a lighter alternative, while butter-flavored crackers add extra richness. Just avoid strongly flavored varieties that might overpower the delicate fish.
- → What sides pair well with this cod?
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Steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus complement the crispy fish perfectly. A simple green salad with vinaigrette adds freshness, roasted potatoes provide heartiness, or serve over rice for a complete meal.
