Baked Cod with Ritz Cracker Topping recipe

Dinner dilemmas are a constant in our household. Juggling work, school runs, and after-school activities often leaves me scrambling for a meal that’s both quick and satisfying. That’s why this Baked Cod with Ritz Cracker Topping has become an absolute lifesaver. Honestly, I stumbled upon this recipe years ago when searching for a simple fish dish that even my picky eaters would enjoy. Let me tell you, it was a resounding success from the very first bite! The flaky, moist cod, paired with the buttery, crunchy Ritz cracker topping, is a textural and flavor sensation that’s surprisingly elegant for how effortless it is to prepare. My kids, who are usually skeptical of anything “fishy,” devour this. Even my husband, a self-proclaimed meat-and-potatoes guy, raves about it. It’s become a regular feature on our weeknight menu, and I’m so excited to share this foolproof recipe with you. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this Baked Cod with Ritz Cracker Topping is guaranteed to impress with minimal effort. Get ready to enjoy a delicious, healthy, and crowd-pleasing meal that will quickly become a family favorite in your home too!

Ingredients for Baked Cod with Ritz Cracker Topping

This recipe relies on simple, pantry-friendly ingredients, making it perfect for those nights when you need a quick and delicious meal without a trip to the grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delectable Baked Cod with Ritz Cracker Topping:

• 1.5 lbs Cod Fillets: Fresh or frozen (thawed) cod fillets are the star of the show. Look for thick, skinless fillets for the best results. If using frozen, ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to remove excess moisture.
• 1 Sleeve (approximately 1.5 cups crushed) Ritz Crackers: The magic ingredient! Ritz crackers provide that irresistible buttery, salty, and crunchy topping that perfectly complements the delicate cod. You’ll need to crush them into coarse crumbs.
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) Unsalted Butter, melted: Melted butter is essential for binding the Ritz cracker topping and adding richness and flavor to both the topping and the cod. Unsalted butter allows you to control the salt level in the dish.
• 1/4 cup Lemon Juice, freshly squeezed: Fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors of the cod and the topping, cutting through the richness of the butter and adding a zesty touch.
• 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley, chopped: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a subtle herbaceousness that complements the other flavors. You can also use dried parsley if fresh isn’t available, but fresh is highly recommended for the best flavor.
• 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder: Garlic powder adds a savory depth to the topping and enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.
• 1/2 teaspoon Onion Powder: Onion powder works in synergy with garlic powder to create a more complex and savory flavor base in the topping.
• 1/4 teaspoon Paprika (optional, for color and a hint of smokiness): Paprika adds a touch of color to the topping and a subtle smoky note. You can use sweet or smoked paprika depending on your preference.
• Salt and Black Pepper to taste: Seasoning is crucial! Salt and pepper enhance all the flavors in the dish. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed throughout the preparation.

Instructions: How to Make Baked Cod with Ritz Cracker Topping

This recipe is incredibly straightforward, even for beginner cooks. Follow these simple step-by-step instructions to create perfectly baked cod with a golden, crispy Ritz cracker topping:

1. Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures the cod cooks through evenly while the Ritz cracker topping becomes golden brown and crispy.
2. Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or a similar sized oven-safe dish. This prevents the cod from sticking to the bottom of the dish and makes for easier cleanup. You can use cooking spray or a light coating of olive oil or butter.
3. Prepare the Cod: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. This step is important, especially if using thawed frozen cod, as it removes excess moisture and helps the topping adhere better and the cod to bake rather than steam. Arrange the cod fillets in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. Ensure they are not overcrowded, as this can lead to uneven cooking.
4. Make the Ritz Cracker Topping: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers, melted butter, lemon juice, chopped parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika (if using). Mix well with a fork or spatula until the Ritz cracker crumbs are evenly coated with the melted butter and seasonings. The mixture should be moist but not soggy.
5. Season the Cod: Sprinkle the cod fillets with salt and black pepper to taste. Seasoning the cod directly ensures that the fish itself is flavorful and not bland.
6. Top the Cod with Ritz Cracker Mixture: Evenly distribute the Ritz cracker topping mixture over the cod fillets, pressing it lightly to help it adhere. Ensure each fillet is generously covered with the topping for maximum flavor and crunch.
7. Bake the Cod: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork, and the Ritz cracker topping is golden brown and crispy. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your cod fillets. Start checking for doneness around 15 minutes and adjust the time accordingly.
8. Check for Doneness: To check if the cod is cooked through, gently flake it with a fork. If it flakes easily and is opaque throughout, it’s done. Avoid overbaking the cod, as it can become dry.
9. Rest and Serve: Once cooked, let the baked cod rest for a minute or two before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more moist and flavorful fish. Garnish with extra fresh parsley and lemon wedges, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts for Baked Cod with Ritz Cracker Topping

This Baked Cod with Ritz Cracker Topping is not only delicious but also offers a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids from the cod. Here’s an estimated nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings per recipe and using the ingredient quantities listed above):

• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 450-550 calories (This is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes. Butter quantity, cod fat content, and cracker brand can influence the calorie count.)

Approximate Nutritional Breakdown per Serving:

• Protein: 35-40 grams (Cod is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle building and repair.)
• Fat: 25-35 grams (This includes saturated and unsaturated fats primarily from the butter and cod. While butter contributes saturated fat, cod provides healthy omega-3 fatty acids.)
• Saturated Fat: 15-20 grams (Primarily from butter. Consider using reduced-fat butter or olive oil spray for a lower saturated fat option.)
• Cholesterol: 150-200 mg (From butter and cod.)
• Sodium: 500-700 mg (From Ritz crackers, butter, and added salt. Using low-sodium crackers and unsalted butter can reduce sodium content.)
• Carbohydrates: 20-25 grams (Primarily from Ritz crackers.)
• Fiber: 1-2 grams (Minimal fiber content.)
• Sugar: 2-3 grams (Naturally occurring sugars in ingredients and potentially added sugar in some cracker brands.)
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Good source (Cod is known for its beneficial omega-3 fatty acids, important for heart health and brain function.)
• Vitamin D: Good source (Cod is a natural source of Vitamin D.)
• Vitamin B12: Excellent source (Cod is rich in Vitamin B12, crucial for nerve function and red blood cell formation.)
• Selenium: Excellent source (Cod is a good source of selenium, an antioxidant mineral.)

Important Note: These are estimations. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use. Consider portion sizes when calculating your intake.

Preparation Time for Baked Cod with Ritz Cracker Topping

One of the best things about this recipe is how quickly it comes together. From start to finish, you’re looking at a minimal time investment, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

• Prep Time: 10-15 minutes (This includes thawing cod if frozen, crushing Ritz crackers, chopping parsley, melting butter, and mixing the topping.)
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes (Baking time in the oven, depending on cod thickness and oven temperature.)
• Total Time: 25-35 minutes (From start to finish, a quick and easy meal!)

How to Serve Baked Cod with Ritz Cracker Topping

Baked Cod with Ritz Cracker Topping is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to create a complete and balanced meal:

Vegetable Sides:

• Roasted Asparagus: Asparagus roasted with olive oil, salt, and pepper offers a vibrant green contrast and a slightly earthy flavor that complements the cod.
• Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli, lightly seasoned, is a healthy and classic side dish that goes well with almost anything.
• Green Beans Almondine: Green beans sautéed with butter and toasted almonds add a touch of elegance and nutty flavor.
• Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts with garlic and Parmesan cheese provide a savory and slightly sweet counterpoint to the cod.
• Lemon Herb Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted vegetables like carrots, potatoes, zucchini, and bell peppers, tossed with lemon juice and herbs, offers a colorful and flavorful side.
• Simple Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing and healthy counterpoint to the richer baked cod. Consider adding tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers for extra nutrients and flavor.

Grain and Starchy Sides:

• Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf, cooked with broth and aromatics, is a comforting and satisfying side dish.
• Quinoa: Quinoa, a protein-rich grain, is a healthy and versatile side that pairs well with fish.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic comfort food side that complements the flaky cod and crispy topping.
• Roasted Potatoes: Roasted potatoes, seasoned with herbs and spices, offer a heartier and more rustic side dish.
• Couscous: Light and fluffy couscous, flavored with herbs or lemon zest, is a quick and easy side option.

Other Complementary Sides:

• Lemon Wedges: Always serve with lemon wedges for squeezing over the cod just before serving. The fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors and adds a final touch of zest.
• Tartar Sauce: For those who enjoy a creamy dipping sauce, tartar sauce is a classic pairing with fish.
• Coleslaw: A creamy or vinegar-based coleslaw provides a cool and crunchy contrast to the warm baked cod.
• Dinner Rolls or Crusty Bread: Serve with warm dinner rolls or crusty bread to soak up any delicious sauce or buttery topping.

Serving Suggestions for Different Occasions:

• Weeknight Dinner: Pair with a quick steamed vegetable like broccoli or green beans and a simple side salad for a healthy and easy weeknight meal.
• Casual Family Meal: Serve with mashed potatoes or roasted potatoes and a side of roasted vegetables for a comforting and satisfying family dinner.
• Slightly More Elegant Dinner: Pair with rice pilaf or quinoa and roasted asparagus or green beans almondine for a more refined meal.
• Summer Meal: Serve with a fresh salad and couscous or quinoa for a lighter and brighter meal perfect for warmer weather.

Additional Tips for Perfect Baked Cod with Ritz Cracker Topping

To ensure your Baked Cod with Ritz Cracker Topping turns out perfectly every time, here are five helpful tips:

1. Don’t Overbake the Cod: Cod is a delicate fish that cooks quickly. Overbaking will result in dry, tough fish. Bake just until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Start checking for doneness around 15 minutes and adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of your fillets. It’s better to slightly underbake than overbake.
2. Crush the Ritz Crackers Correctly: Aim for coarse crumbs, not fine powder. You want some texture in the topping. The easiest way to crush Ritz crackers is to place them in a zip-top bag and gently crush them with a rolling pin or the bottom of a heavy pan. Alternatively, you can pulse them briefly in a food processor, being careful not to over-process.
3. Use Fresh Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice makes a significant difference in flavor compared to bottled lemon juice. It provides a brighter, zestier flavor that really enhances the dish. If possible, always opt for fresh lemon juice.
4. Customize the Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasonings in the Ritz cracker topping to your liking. Experiment with adding other herbs like dried thyme, oregano, or dill. For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper. You can also add grated Parmesan cheese to the topping for extra flavor and cheesiness.
5. For Extra Crispy Topping, Broil Briefly: If you want an even crispier topping, you can broil the cod for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking time. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning. Make sure the cod is already cooked through before broiling, as broiling is primarily for browning the topping.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Baked Cod with Ritz Cracker Topping

Here are some common questions people have about making Baked Cod with Ritz Cracker Topping:

Q1: Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?

A: Yes, you can definitely use frozen cod. Make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way to thaw frozen cod is to place it in the refrigerator overnight. If you need to thaw it quickly, you can place the sealed package of frozen cod in a bowl of cold water for about 30-60 minutes, changing the water every 15-20 minutes. Once thawed, pat the cod fillets thoroughly dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture before proceeding with the recipe.

Q2: Can I substitute Ritz crackers with another type of cracker or breadcrumbs?

A: While Ritz crackers are key to the signature buttery flavor and texture of this recipe, you can substitute them if needed. Panko breadcrumbs or crushed buttery crackers like Club crackers can work as alternatives. Panko breadcrumbs will provide a crispier topping, while Club crackers will offer a similar buttery flavor. You may need to adjust the amount of butter and seasonings if using a different base. Regular breadcrumbs will also work in a pinch, but they won’t provide the same buttery richness as Ritz crackers.

Q3: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

A: You can prepare the Ritz cracker topping mixture ahead of time and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for a few hours. You can also assemble the cod in the baking dish and top it with the cracker mixture up to a few hours before baking. However, it’s best to bake the cod just before serving for the best texture and flavor. If you assemble it ahead of time, cover the dish and refrigerate it. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the refrigerator.

Q4: Is this recipe healthy?

A: Baked Cod with Ritz Cracker Topping can be part of a healthy diet. Cod is a lean protein source and rich in omega-3 fatty acids, Vitamin D, and Vitamin B12. However, the Ritz cracker topping and butter add calories and fat. To make it healthier, you can use reduced-fat butter or olive oil spray to coat the crackers, use whole wheat Ritz crackers (if available), and serve it with plenty of vegetables. Portion control is also important.

Q5: Can I add cheese to this recipe?

A: Yes, you can definitely add cheese! Grated Parmesan cheese is a popular addition to the Ritz cracker topping. You can mix it directly into the topping mixture or sprinkle it on top before baking. Shredded cheddar cheese or mozzarella can also be used for a different flavor profile. Adding cheese will add extra flavor and richness to the dish.

Print