What’s better than plain baked cod? A flaky cod fillet topped with buttery, garlicky Ritz crackers!
This baked cod recipe takes a simple fish dinner and makes it extra special with a crispy, flavorful topping. The combination of fresh herbs and crushed Ritz crackers creates a crust that’ll have everyone at the table asking for seconds. Trust me – once you try this version of baked cod, regular breadcrumbs just won’t cut it anymore.
Ingredient Substitutions
For a gluten-free option, replace Ritz crackers and panko breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds. These alternatives provide a similar crunchy texture while reducing carbohydrates. Adjust the quantity to achieve the desired coating thickness. Olive oil can be substituted with avocado oil for a higher smoke point and different flavor profile. Use the same amount as called for in the recipe. For those avoiding alcohol, replace the dry white wine with chicken broth or clam juice to maintain moisture and add depth of flavor. Use an equal amount of broth or clam juice as a 1:1 substitution for the wine.
| Preparation Time | 10-15 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 22-25 minutes |
| Total Time | 32-40 minutes |
| Level of Difficulty | Easy |
Estimated Nutrition
Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
- Calories: 800-900
- Protein: 100-110 g
- Fat: 40-50 g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60 g
Ingredients
For the cod:
- freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- kosher salt (to taste)
- quality olive oil
- 4 boneless, center-cut cod fillets (6 to 8 oz each)
For the crumb topping:
- 1 tsp lemon zest (finely grated)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley (finely chopped)
- 2 tsp minced garlic (from about 2 cloves, freshly minced for best flavor)
- 1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs (I use Kikkoman panko for extra crispness)
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter (melted and cooled slightly)
- 1/2 cup crushed ritz crackers (about 15 crackers, for a buttery, crisp topping)
For the liquid base:
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc)
For serving:
- lemon wedges
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
This ensures the oven is hot enough to cook the fish evenly and thoroughly when you are ready to put it in.
Step 2: Prepare and Bake the Cod Fillets
Pour 2 tablespoons of olive oil into a 9 x 9-inch ceramic baking dish.
Tilt the dish so that the oil coats the bottom evenly.
Place the cod fillets in the dish, turning them to coat both sides with the oil.
Season the fish with 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper.
Place the dish into the preheated oven and bake the fillets for 10 minutes.
Step 3: Prepare the Crumb Topping
In a small bowl, mix together the Ritz cracker crumbs, panko, parsley, garlic, lemon zest, and 1 teaspoon of salt.
Add the melted butter and stir until the mixture is thoroughly moistened.
Set this crumb mixture aside for later use.
Step 4: Add Wine, Lemon Juice, and Crumb Topping
After the initial 10 minutes of baking, remove the dish from the oven.
Pour the white wine and lemon juice directly over the cod fillets.
Evenly distribute the prepared crumb mixture over the fillets, pressing gently to help the crumbs adhere to the surface of the fish.
Step 5: Final Bake and Serve
Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 12 minutes, or until the cod fillets are cooked through in the center, which will vary depending on their thickness.
Once done, remove from the oven, sprinkle with additional salt if desired, and serve hot, garnished with the pan juices and lemon wedges.
Enjoy your savory baked cod with a delicious crispy topping!
