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The Homemade Filet-O-Fish That Tastes Just Like the Real Deal (But Better)

The Homemade Filet-O-Fish That Tastes Just Like the Real Deal (But Better)

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This copycat Filet-O-Fish recipe brings all the familiar flavors of the fast food favorite—crispy fried fish, melty American cheese, fluffy bun, and tangy tartar sauce—right into your own kitchen. A comfort classic you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 white fish fillets (cod or pollock, about 4 oz each)
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup plain breadcrumbs or panko
  • 4 soft hamburger buns
  • 4 slices American cheese
  • For the tartar sauce:
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped pickles or relish
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • ½ teaspoon sugar

Instructions

  1. Make the tartar sauce: In a small bowl, stir together mayonnaise, chopped pickles, lemon juice, and sugar. Chill in the fridge while you prep the rest.
  2. Set up dredging station: Place flour (seasoned with salt and pepper), beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs into three separate shallow bowls.
  3. Coat the fish: Pat the fillets dry. Dredge each one in flour, then dip in egg, then coat with breadcrumbs.
  4. Fry the fish: Heat about ½ inch of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry fish 3–4 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on a wire rack.
  5. Toast the buns: Lightly toast the hamburger buns in a dry skillet or under the broiler.
  6. Assemble the sandwiches: Spread tartar sauce on the bottom bun, add a slice of American cheese, top with the hot crispy fish fillet, and finish with the top bun. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • If your fillets are very thick, slice them in half horizontally for faster cooking.
  • Panko breadcrumbs add extra crispiness.
  • The tartar sauce tastes even better made ahead.
  • You can bake the fish at 425°F for 15–20 minutes if you prefer not to fry.

Nutrition