Ritzy Fish Fillets
Crispy fish fillets topped with melted mozzarella and crunchy Ritz crackers, perfect for a quick, flavorful seafood meal suitable for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Wash the fish fillets and dry them with a paper towel to absorb excess water.
- Arrange as many fillets as possible close together in a 13 x 9 x 2-inch glass baking dish.
- Put a small dab (about 1/2 teaspoon) of butter on each fillet.
- Pour lemon juice over all the fillets.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Bake in the oven at 350°F for 20 minutes.
- Remove the pan from the oven and crumble Ritz crackers (about 1 to 2 rolls) evenly over the fillets.
- Sprinkle shredded Mozzarella cheese over the crackers.
- Bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider marinating the fish fillets in lemon juice for 30 minutes before baking. For a crunchier topping, pulse the Ritz crackers in a food processor before sprinkling them on. If you want a twist, try adding some grated Parmesan to the Mozzarella for extra richness. For a healthier option, substitute the Mozzarella with a reduced-fat cheese.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Ritzy Fish Fillets with a side of steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus for a balanced meal. This dish pairs beautifully with a light salad or some couscous. For a more festive occasion, consider including a refreshing Crab Louis in Avocado Halves as a starter.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, place the fish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to retain its texture and prevent it from becoming soggy. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the fish rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ritzy Fish Fillets contains roughly 347 calories, with 16g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (32% of the Daily Value) and calcium (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1050mg per serving (46% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen fish fillets for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen fish fillets. Just ensure they are fully thawed and dried before baking. This will help them cook evenly and absorb the flavors better. Adjust the baking time slightly if the fillets are thicker.
What type of fish works best for this recipe?
Mild white fish such as tilapia, cod, or haddock are excellent choices for this recipe. They hold their shape well during baking and absorb flavors nicely. Avoid oily fish, as they might overpower the dish's flavor profile.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the point of adding the Ritz crackers and cheese. Cover and refrigerate it, then bake it when you're ready to serve. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting from the fridge.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).