Baked Cod Cracker Crumb

I was standing in front of the fish counter on a busy Wednesday, completely blank on what to make for dinner. The fishmonger suggested cod, and I grabbed it without a plan. At home, I remembered a sleeve of buttery crackers in the pantry and thought, why not? That improvised topping turned into something I now make on repeat.

The first time I served this to friends, someone asked if Id been to culinary school. I laughed and told them it was just crackers and butter, but they didnt believe me. Theres something about that golden crust that makes people think you worked harder than you did.

Ingredients

• Cod fillets: Look for thick, firm pieces with no fishy smell, and always pat them completely dry so the topping sticks.
• Buttery round crackers: Ritz work beautifully here, but any buttery cracker will do, just crush them into coarse crumbs, not powder.
• Unsalted butter: Melted butter binds the crumbs and helps them crisp up in the oven without burning.
• Fresh parsley: It adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness that cuts through the richness.
• Lemon zest and juice: Brightness is key with fish, and lemon does that job perfectly without overpowering.
• Garlic powder: Just enough to add depth without making the dish taste heavy or complicated.

Instructions

Prep the oven and dish:

Preheat to 400°F and lightly oil your baking dish so nothing sticks. A little olive oil goes a long way here.

Season the cod:

Pat the fillets dry, season both sides with salt and pepper, then arrange them in the dish and drizzle with lemon juice. Dryness is crucial or the topping will slide right off.

Make the cracker topping:

Crush the crackers in a bowl, then mix in melted butter, parsley, lemon zest, and garlic powder until everything is evenly coated. It should look like wet sand.

Top the fillets:

Press the cracker mixture gently onto each fillet, covering the top completely. Dont be shy, pack it on.

Bake until golden:

Slide the dish into the oven for 15 to 20 minutes, until the fish flakes easily and the topping is golden brown. If your fillets are thick, give them a couple extra minutes.

Serve hot:

Pull it out, squeeze fresh lemon over the top, and serve immediately while the crust is still crispy.

Save Pin

One night, my neighbor brought over a bottle of white wine and I pulled this together in less time than it took to chill the glasses. We sat on the back porch with plates on our laps, and she said it tasted like something youd order by the ocean. I took that as the highest compliment.

What to Serve With It

This pairs beautifully with steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or a simple arugula salad dressed with olive oil and lemon. I also love it over a bed of buttery rice or alongside garlic mashed potatoes when I want something more filling. Keep the sides light so the fish stays the star.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers keep in the fridge for up to two days in an airtight container. Reheat gently in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes to keep the topping from getting soggy. Microwaving works in a pinch, but youll lose some of that crispy texture.

Ways to Switch It Up

You can swap cod for haddock, tilapia, or even salmon if thats what you have. A pinch of cayenne in the cracker mix adds a nice kick, and sometimes I throw in a handful of grated Parmesan for extra richness. If you want to go dairy free, just use olive oil instead of butter and it still turns out great.

• Try using panko mixed with crushed crackers for an even crunchier topping.
• Add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the cracker mix for a subtle tang.
• Finish with a drizzle of melted herb butter right before serving for extra indulgence.

Save Pin

This recipe has become my go to whenever I want something that feels special but doesnt require much effort. Its proof that simple ingredients, when treated right, can turn into something you actually look forward to eating.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ What type of fish is best for this dish?

Skinless, boneless cod fillets work best due to their flaky texture and mild flavor, which pairs well with a buttery crumb topping.

→ Can I substitute the crackers in the crumb topping?

Yes, buttery crackers like Ritz or saltines are good alternatives. Choose ones that easily crush and complement the buttery taste.

→ How do I ensure the crumb topping stays crispy?

Press the crumb mixture firmly onto the fillets and bake until golden. Avoid overcrowding the baking dish to allow even heat circulation.

→ Is there a way to make this dish dairy-free?

Replace the butter in the crumb topping with olive oil for a dairy-free version without sacrificing flavor or texture.

→ What sides pair well with baked cod and crumb topping?

Steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh light salad complement the dish nicely, balancing the rich, buttery crust.