Boston Baked Cod That Tastes Like the Coast Came Home

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 lbs fresh cod fillets (about 4 pieces)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 3/4 cup crushed Ritz crackers or plain breadcrumbs
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or softened butter (for the baking dish)
• 2-3 thin lemon slices (optional, for layering under the fish)

Instructions

1. 1

   Remove cod from the fridge 10 minutes before cooking to take the chill off.

2. 2

   Preheat oven to 400°F. Grease a 9x13 baking dish with olive oil or butter. Lay lemon slices on the bottom if using.

3. 3

   Pat cod fillets completely dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper, then squeeze lemon juice over the top.

4. 4

   In a small bowl, mix crushed crackers, melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and parsley until the mixture resembles damp sand.

5. 5

   Place cod fillets in the prepared baking dish. Press the cracker topping firmly onto each fillet to form an even crust about 1/4 inch thick.

6. 6

   Bake uncovered at 400°F for 18 to 22 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and the fish flakes easily when pressed gently with a fork.

7. 7

   Remove from oven and let rest in the pan for 3 minutes before serving.