Crab-Topped Cod: A Decadent Family Favorite
When it comes to indulgent seafood dishes that are sure to impress, few can rival the rich flavors of this Crab-Topped Cod recipe. Combining two classic recipes with a few personalized tweaks, this dish delivers the perfect balance of tender, flaky cod with a luxurious, buttery crab topping. The result is a melt-in-your-mouth sensation that mimics the taste of lobster, making this dish a family favorite week after week. It’s rich, flavorful, and ideal for special occasions or a cozy dinner at home. But fair warning—it’s not low-calorie, so indulge responsibly!
This recipe is also an excellent choice for those seeking an elegant, yet simple dish to prepare in under 30 minutes. Serve it alongside some crispy roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete meal that feels like a restaurant-quality dinner.
Crab-Topped Cod Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cod fish fillets | 6 fillets |
| Water | 1 1/4 cups |
| Sugar | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Butter (divided) | 6 tablespoons |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 medium onion |
| Dried parsley | 1/3 teaspoon |
| Fresh parsley (chopped) | 1/2 tablespoon |
| Garlic powder | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Dill weed | 1/8 teaspoon |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon |
| Parmesan-Romano cheese mix | 1/8 to 1/4 cup, to taste |
| Crushed crackers (such as Ritz) | 12 crackers |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 628.5 kcal |
| Fat | 30.3 g |
| Saturated Fat | 17.9 g |
| Cholesterol | 171.7 mg |
| Sodium | 2724.2 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 46.4 g |
| Fiber | 0.2 g |
| Sugar | 42.3 g |
| Protein | 42.6 g |
Instructions
-
Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the cod fillets will cook evenly and the topping will brown perfectly. -
Prepare the Cod Fillets
In a large saucepan, dissolve the sugar and salt in the water. Once dissolved, pour the mixture over the cod fillets. Bring the water to a boil, which may take longer if you are using frozen fillets. Allow the fillets to cook for 4 to 5 minutes. If you’re using fresh cod, they will cook faster. After boiling, carefully scoop out the fish and place it on a clean paper towel to drain. Pat the fillets dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. -
Prepare the Topping
While the cod fillets are cooking, you can begin preparing the crab topping. In a small saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 1 minute, or until it becomes fragrant and soft. -
Add the Crab and Seasonings
Stir in the crab meat (fresh or canned), dried parsley, fresh parsley, dill weed, and garlic powder. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Continue to stir for another minute to ensure the ingredients are well-combined and fragrant. Remove the pan from the heat. -
Add the Crushed Crackers
Once the crab mixture has cooled slightly, add the crushed crackers. Gently stir until the mixture becomes thick and holds together. The crushed crackers help bind the crab topping, giving it a nice texture. -
Assemble the Dish
Lightly butter a baking dish and place the boiled cod fillets in a single layer. Brush the fillets with the remaining 2 tablespoons of melted butter (preferably real butter, not margarine, for the best flavor). -
Top with Crab Mixture
Carefully spoon the crab mixture over each cod fillet. For a more substantial topping, you can use your hands to pile the crab mixture high on each fillet. Drizzle the top with a little more melted butter and sprinkle with freshly squeezed lemon juice. -
Bake
Sprinkle the parmesan-romano cheese mix over the crab-topped cod. Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and slightly crispy. You’ll know it’s ready when the cod is cooked through, flaking easily with a fork. -
Serve
Once done, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve the crab-topped cod hot, garnished with extra fresh parsley or lemon wedges if desired.
Recipe Notes:
- Cod Fillets: If you’re not a fan of cod, you can substitute other white fish fillets like haddock or tilapia. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as needed depending on the thickness of the fillets.
- Crab Meat: Fresh crab meat will give the topping a more luxurious flavor, but canned crab works just as well. If you prefer, you can also use imitation crab meat, though it won’t be quite as flavorful.
- Topping Variations: For an added layer of flavor, you can add a small amount of Old Bay seasoning or cayenne pepper to the crab mixture for a spicy kick.
- Side Suggestions: Pair this dish with a fresh salad, garlic mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal that’s sure to impress.
This Crab-Topped Cod is a showstopper, offering a delightful combination of seafood, butter, and crunch that will have your family and friends asking for seconds. With its rich flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture, it’s no wonder this has become a weekly favorite in so many households.
If you’re looking for more mouthwatering seafood recipes or family-friendly dishes, head over to Love With Recipes for an array of delicious, easy-to-follow recipes perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!
