# What You'll Need:
→ Fish
01 - 4 cod fillets, skinless and boneless, 6 ounces each
02 - 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
03 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
→ Topping
04 - 1 1/2 cups crushed Ritz crackers (approx. 1 sleeve)
05 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
06 - 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
07 - Zest of 1 lemon
08 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
→ For Baking
09 - 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
10 - 2 tablespoons dry white wine (optional)
11 - Nonstick cooking spray or olive oil for greasing
# Step-by-Step Guide:
01 - Preheat the oven to 400°F. Lightly grease a baking dish large enough to hold the cod fillets in a single layer.
02 - Pat the cod fillets dry using paper towels. Season both sides evenly with kosher salt and black pepper. Place the fillets in the prepared baking dish.
03 - In a medium mixing bowl, combine crushed Ritz crackers, melted butter, chopped parsley, lemon zest, and garlic powder. Stir until the mixture forms coarse, buttery crumbs.
04 - Drizzle the fresh lemon juice and, if using, the dry white wine evenly over the cod fillets.
05 - Press the cracker mixture firmly and evenly onto the top of each fillet, ensuring full coverage.
06 - Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork. Avoid overbaking.
07 - Serve immediately, optionally accompanied by lemon wedges.
