Baked Cod Cracker Crumb

The smell of buttery crackers toasting in the oven always takes me back to my first apartment, where I learned that simple ingredients could create something magical. My roommate and I were broke but determined to eat well, and this cracker-topped fish became our Friday night celebration. We’d play music too loud and let the fish cook while catching up about our weeks.

I made this for my dad once, a man who claimed to hate fish, and watched him go back for seconds. He actually asked if there was any left for lunch the next day. Now it’s the one seafood dish he actually requests when he visits.

Ingredients

• 4 cod fillets (6 ounces each): Cod’s mild flavor and firm texture make it perfect for beginners, though haddock works beautifully too
• Salt and black pepper: Simple seasoning that lets the buttery topping shine without competing flavors
• 1 cup buttery round crackers: Ritz crackers create the most golden, tender crust but any buttery cracker will work
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Binds the crumbs together and creates that gorgeous golden finish
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley: Adds bright color and a fresh pop that cuts through the rich topping
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Distributes evenly through the crumbs for consistent flavor in every bite
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest: Brightens the whole dish and pairs perfectly with mild white fish
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Keeps the fish from sticking and adds subtle richness
• Lemon wedges: A final squeeze over the hot fish makes everything sing

Instructions

Get your oven ready:

Preheat to 400°F and lightly grease your baking dish with olive oil so nothing sticks

Prep the fish:

Pat the cod fillets completely dry with paper towels, season both sides generously with salt and pepper, and arrange them in your prepared dish

Make the magic topping:

Crush those crackers into coarse crumbs, then toss them with melted butter, parsley, garlic powder, and lemon zest until everything’s evenly coated

Top it off:

Spoon the crumb mixture over each fillet, pressing gently so it sticks to the fish

Bake until golden:

Slide it into the oven for 18 to 20 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork and that cracker crust is beautifully browned

Serve it up:

Bring the dish to the table immediately and let everyone squeeze their own lemon wedges over their portion

Save

This recipe became my go-to when I started dating someone who loved seafood but I was terrified of ruining fish. One successful dinner later, and I realized seafood wasn’t as intimidating as I’d built it up in my head.

Choosing the Right Fish

Cod is forgiving because it’s firm and holds up well to baking, but don’t be afraid to try haddock, pollock, or even tilapia if that’s what looks fresh at your counter. The key is avoiding delicate fish that’ll fall apart when you try to top it with those buttery crumbs.

Getting That Perfect Crust

Crush your crackers to a coarse consistency rather than fine dust, and make sure every piece gets coated in melted butter. The butter’s what creates that beautiful golden color and keeps the crust tender rather than tough.

Make It Your Own

Once you’ve got the basic method down, you can start playing around with the flavor profile. A pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika in the crumbs adds warmth, while grated Parmesan mixed into the topping takes it in an Italian direction.

• Try swapping parsley for fresh dill or chives when you want a different herb note
• Add a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the crumb mixture for extra depth
• Don’t skip the lemon zest, it’s the secret that makes everything taste brighter

Save

Serve this with something green and bright, and you’ve got dinner that feels special enough for company but simple enough for Tuesday.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use fish other than cod?

Yes, haddock or pollock can be used as alternatives without changing the dish's texture or flavor significantly.

→ How do I ensure the topping stays crispy after baking?

Press the cracker crumb mixture firmly onto the cod fillets before baking and ensure your oven is properly preheated for even browning.

→ Can I make the cracker topping spicier?

Absolutely, adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the crumb mixture adds a subtle heat that complements the buttery crust.

→ What side dishes pair well with this baked cod?

Steamed vegetables or a simple green salad balance the richness of the crumb topping nicely for a well-rounded meal.

→ Is it necessary to use fresh lemon zest in the topping?

Fresh lemon zest brightens the flavor and complements the seafood, but dried lemon peel can be a substitute if fresh zest isn't available.