Cracker-Crusted Cod with Green Beans: The Ultimate Sheet Pan Seafood Dinner
Buttery crunch meets tender veggies in a fuss-free meal that feels delightfully upscale.
Cracker-Crusted Cod with Green Beans: A Crispy Sheet Pan Classic
If you’re searching for a seafood recipe that’s quick, satisfying, and bursting with flavor, cracker-crusted cod with green beans is a top contender. This dish pairs succulent cod fillets, coated in a savory blend of crushed crackers and parmesan, with perfectly roasted green beans—all cooked on sheet pans for minimal fuss and easy cleanup. Inspired by classic comfort food and modern convenience, it’s a recipe that fits weeknight dinners and special gatherings alike.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless assembly: Uses everyday ingredients and simple steps.
- Balanced flavors: Buttery, nutty crust on tender fish; roasted green beans with garlic.
- Fuss-free cleanup: Everything bakes on two pans lined with foil.
- Flexible: Ideal for busy weeknights or relaxed gatherings.
Ingredients for Cracker-Crusted Cod with Green Beans
Here’s what you’ll need for a batch serving six:
- 2 lb. green beans, trimmed
- 3 Tbsp. olive oil, plus more for the baking sheet
- 1 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp. black pepper
- 3 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
- 15 butter crackers (such as Ritz), finely crushed (about 1/2 cup crumbs)
- 3 Tbsp. grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp. paprika
- 3 Tbsp. mayonnaise
- 1 tsp. Dijon mustard
- 6 skinless cod fillets (5-6 oz. each)
- Chopped fresh parsley and lemon wedges for serving
Step-by-Step Directions
- Prep the Oven and Baking Sheets
- Position racks in upper and lower thirds of oven.
- Preheat oven to 450°F.
- Line two baking sheets with foil. Drizzle olive oil on each for non-stick and flavor.
- Roast the Green Beans
- Toss green beans with 2 Tbsp. olive oil, 1 tsp. kosher salt, and 1/2 tsp. black pepper. Spread out on one baking sheet.
- Place on lower oven rack. Roast for 10–15 minutes, until beans brown and soften.
- Add garlic; toss. Continue roasting 15–20 minutes until garlic is soft and beans lightly charred.
- Prepare the Cracker Crust
- Mix cracker crumbs, parmesan, paprika, and remaining olive oil in a bowl.
- In another bowl, stir together mayonnaise and Dijon mustard.
- Coat the Fish
- Place cod fillets on oiled second baking sheet.
- Spread mayo-mustard mixture on each fillet.
- Press fillets into cracker crumb mixture to coat evenly. Add remaining crumbs on top if needed.
- Arrange fillets crumb-side up on the baking sheet.
- Roast and Broil the Cod
- Roast fish on upper rack for about 15 minutes, until just cooked through.
- Turn broiler on for final 2 minutes to brown and crisp crumbs.
- Finish and Serve
- Sprinkle parsley over fish, serve with roasted green beans and lemon wedges.
- Enjoy immediately for best texture and flavor.
Tips, Tricks, and Ingredient Swaps
- Crackers: Ritz provide a buttery flavor, but saltines or panko can substitute for less richness.
- Fish options: Cod is ideal, but haddock, pollock, or tilapia work similarly; adjust cooking time for thinner fillets.
- Vegetables: Trade green beans for asparagus, broccoli, or carrots; adjust roasting time as needed.
- Dairy-free: Skip parmesan or use a vegan alternative.
- Spices: Try adding a pinch of cayenne for heat, or smoked paprika for a deeper flavor.
- Mayonnaise substitute: Greek yogurt works for a tangy, lighter coating.
Why Sheet Pan Dinners Work
Sheet pan cooking maximizes oven space, locks in moisture, and creates a contrast of textures from crispy crusts to tender interiors. It’s the ultimate method for combining protein and vegetables in a way that’s quick, hands-off, and yields minimal cleanup. That’s why weeknight diners and busy cooks love recipes like cracker-crusted cod with green beans—it’s tasty, reliable, and efficient.
Nutrition and Health Highlights
| Ingredient | Main Nutrients | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Cod | Lean protein, omega-3s, vitamin B12 | Supports heart and brain health; filling, low fat |
| Green beans | Fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K | Digestive health; immune support; bone strength |
| Olive oil | Monounsaturated fats, antioxidants | Anti-inflammatory; improves cholesterol |
| Parmesan cheese | Calcium, protein | Bone health; rich flavor with little quantity |
| Butter crackers | Carbohydrates, some fats | Crunch and flavor for satisfying texture |
Serving Suggestions
- Garnish with extra chopped parsley and more lemon wedges for brightness.
- Pair with a light salad or simple rice pilaf for a heartier meal.
- Serve with homemade tartar sauce or aioli for dipping.
- Add crusty bread to round out the dinner and soak up any juices.
Storage and Make-Ahead Advice
What others are reading
- Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven for best crispness.
- Prep ahead: Crush crackers and prep coating mixtures a day in advance. Trim green beans ahead of time.
- Freezing: Assembled, uncooked fish can be frozen (without mayo/mustard) for up to 1 month. Thaw before baking and add coating fresh.
Variations and Flavor Twists
- Herb swaps: Use dill, basil, or thyme in place of parsley.
- Citrus: Try orange or lime wedges instead of lemon for change of pace.
- Crunch upgrades: Add a handful of chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts) to the cracker mixture.
- Spicy kick: Add hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the mayo-mustard spread.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use frozen cod fillets?
A: Yes, but thaw them fully and pat dry before coating and baking to prevent excess moisture and soggy crust.
Q: Are cracker crusts gluten-free?
A: Traditional crackers contain wheat, but you can substitute with gluten-free options or panko-style breadcrumbs.
Q: Could I roast the fish and beans together on one pan?
A: It’s best to keep them separate so the crust stays crisp and beans get a proper roast without steaming the fish.
Q: What other vegetables pair well with this meal?
A: Asparagus, zucchini, carrots, or bell peppers all roast beautifully and complement the fish.
Q: How do I know when the cod is cooked through?
A: Cod flakes easily with a fork and turns opaque; an internal temperature of 145°F is perfect.
Explore More Easy Seafood Recipes
- Cowboy Spaghetti: A hearty, beefy pasta for busy nights.
- Meatball Casserole: Easy, cheesy comfort food.
- Lemon Garlic Shrimp: Quick and packed with fresh citrus and herb notes.
- Sheet Pan Glazed Meatloaf: Traditional flavor, no fuss cleanup.
- Chicken Noodle Casserole: Cozy, classic crowd pleaser.
Pro Chef Tips for Success
- Use a shallow dish for crusting to ensure even coverage on fish fillets.
- Let roasted green beans cool slightly before serving for improved texture.
- If doubling the recipe, rotate the pans halfway through cooking for even browning.
- Finely crush crackers for best adhesion; use a food processor or sealed plastic bag with a rolling pin.
Conclusion: Why Cracker-Crusted Cod with Green Beans Wins Dinner
Between its crispy crust, tender fish, and robust veggies, cracker-crusted cod with green beans delivers the perfect blend of ease and flavor. Whether you’re feeding a busy family, hosting friends, or just craving an uncomplicated but impressive meal, this sheet pan classic belongs in your regular rotation. Master the basics and explore your own creative twists to make it truly your own!
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