Flaky cod fillets baked under a buttery, crushed cracker topping until golden, a simple coastal New England seafood classic.
Baked cod with a buttery cracker crumb topping is a quintessential New England seafood preparation, reflecting the region's deep connection to Atlantic fishing and its preference for simple, unfussy cooking that lets fresh, mild white fish shine. Crushed butter crackers (Ritz or a similar type) are mixed with melted butter and pressed over cod fillets before baking, creating a rich, crunchy topping that contrasts nicely with the delicate, flaky fish underneath. The technique that matters is not overbaking: cod is a delicate, lean fish that dries out quickly, so it's baked just until it flakes easily with a fork, typically 12 to 15 minutes depending on thickness, with the cracker topping turning golden in the same amount of time. A splash of white wine or lemon juice added to the baking dish keeps the fish moist as it cooks and adds brightness that balances the rich, buttery topping. Served simply with a lemon wedge and perhaps some roasted vegetables, baked cod with cracker crumbs is homey, unpretentious New England cooking -- the kind of dish found at church suppers and family dinners throughout the coastal Northeast.
Serves 4
Preheat oven to 200C/400F. Season cod fillets with salt and pepper, and drizzle with lemon juice.
Place fillets in a greased baking dish. Pour white wine or stock around the fish.
Combine crushed crackers, melted butter, and parsley.
Press the cracker mixture generously over each fillet.
Bake 15-18 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the topping is golden.
Serve hot with lemon wedges.
Don't overbake the cod -- check for doneness at the earliest recommended time, since it continues cooking briefly from residual heat after removal.
Press the cracker topping firmly onto the fish so it adheres and doesn't slide off during baking.
Add the wine or stock to the baking dish to keep the fish moist and add a subtle depth of flavor as it bakes.
Use haddock or another mild white fish if cod isn't available.
Add a layer of sauteed spinach under the fish for a more substantial one-dish meal.
Mix a small amount of grated parmesan into the cracker topping for extra savory depth.
Best eaten fresh the day it's made, as the topping loses its crunch on reheating. Leftovers keep refrigerated up to 2 days; reheat gently in a low oven.
Baked fish with buttery cracker toppings reflects New England's deep culinary connection to the Atlantic fishing industry, with simple preparations designed to celebrate fresh, mild catch rather than mask it with heavy sauces or elaborate technique.
Yes -- Ritz crackers are traditional, but any buttery, mild cracker works well; saltines can also be used with a bit more added butter to compensate for their lower fat content.
It was likely overbaked. Cod is delicate and cooks quickly, so check for doneness at the earliest recommended time and remove from the oven as soon as it flakes easily.
Yes -- thaw completely and pat dry before seasoning, since excess moisture can make the dish watery and prevent the cracker topping from crisping properly.
Per serving (280g / 9.9 oz) · 4 servings total
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