Imagine transforming a simple salmon fillet into a crispy, golden masterpiece that will have your dinner guests begging for seconds! This Baked Ritz Cracker Salmon with Lemon Dill Cream Sauce is not just a meal, it's a culinary adventure that combines the satisfying crunch of Ritz crackers with the delicate, buttery flavor of perfectly cooked salmon. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe promises to elevate your dinner game with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Pat salmon fillets dry using paper towels. This helps the cracker coating adhere better and ensures crispy texture.
- In a shallow bowl, crush Ritz crackers into fine crumbs using a rolling pin or food processor. Aim for a consistent, even texture.
- Melt butter in a separate small bowl. Brush each salmon fillet lightly with melted butter, then generously coat with crushed Ritz cracker crumbs, pressing gently to ensure full coverage.
- Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper before placing on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure fillets are not touching each other for even cooking.
- Bake salmon in preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until fish flakes easily with a fork and internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- While salmon bakes, prepare lemon dill cream sauce by mixing sour cream, fresh chopped dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until well combined.
- Remove salmon from oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Plate salmon and drizzle with prepared lemon dill cream sauce. Garnish with additional fresh dill if desired.
Tips
- Pat your salmon fillets completely dry before coating to ensure maximum cracker adherence and a perfectly crispy exterior.
- Use a rolling pin or food processor to crush Ritz crackers into uniform, fine crumbs for an even coating.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet - give each salmon fillet space to ensure even cooking and crispy edges.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to check that salmon reaches the safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Let the salmon rest for a few minutes after baking to help retain its moisture and allow juices to redistribute.
- For an extra flavor boost, try adding a pinch of garlic powder or dried herbs to your cracker crumb mixture.
- The lemon dill cream sauce can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated, making meal prep even easier.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 110mg