Fried Fish Sandwich

Posted on February 4, 2026

Skip the drive-thru with this crunchy, flaky fried fish sandwich that knocks McDonald’s filet-o-fish out of the park. Fried to perfection and topped with homemade tartar sauce and fresh, crispy vegetables, this classic fried fish sandwich will be your new favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Delicious Flavor: The combination of homemade blackened seasoning and fresh ingredients creates a mouthwatering experience that you’ll crave.
Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, you can whip up this sandwich in no time, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as an appetizer, snack, or main dish—this sandwich fits any occasion and pairs well with various sides.
Healthier Alternative: Using fresh fish and turkey turkey turkey bacon means you can enjoy a satisfying meal without the guilt associated with fast food options.
Customizable Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or adjust the tartar sauce to suit your taste for a unique twist each time.

Tools and Preparation

To make your fried fish sandwich, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that simplify the cooking process.

Essential Kitchen Tools

Skillet
Mixing bowls
Tongs
Paper towels
Spatula

Why These Tools Matter

Skillet: A large skillet is crucial for frying the fish evenly and achieving that golden-brown crust.
Mixing Bowls: Having multiple bowls for dredging keeps the process organized and efficient, helping you avoid messes.
Tongs: These help you safely flip and remove the fish from hot oil without burning yourself or breaking the filets.
Paper Towels: Placing cooked fish on paper towels absorbs excess oil, ensuring your sandwich is crispy without being greasy.

Ingredients

Skip the drive thru with this crunchy, flaky fried fish sandwich that knocks McDonald’s filet-o-fish out of the park. Fried to perfection topped with homemade tartar sauce and fresh, crispy vegetables, this classic fried fish sandwich will be your new favorite.

Ingredients:
– Oil for frying
– 3 tablespoons (36g) homemade blackened seasoning
– 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
– 2 cups (100g) panko breadcrumbs
– 3 eggs (beaten)
– 4 fresh cod filets
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 Kaiser rolls
– 2 tablespoons (28g) butter (softened)
– Homemade tartar sauce
– Boston Bibb lettuce (washed and dried)
– 2 heirloom tomatoes (sliced)
– 1 onion (sliced)

How to Make Fried Fish Sandwich

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Heat oil in a large skillet. When deciding what oil to use, choose one with a high smoke point to prevent burning. Neutral oils like canola or vegetable oil work best since they won’t impact the flavor of your dish.

Step 2: Set Up Your Dredging Station

Set up your dredging station by mixing together homemade blackened seasoning and flour in a wide deep container. In separate containers, place the breadcrumbs and beaten eggs. This organization helps streamline your cooking process.

Step 3: Prepare the Fish Filets

Rinse the fish filets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Ensuring they are dry prevents them from becoming tough during frying.

Step 4: Seasoning and Coating

Season both sides of the filets with salt and pepper to taste. Lightly coat each filet in flour before fully covering them in egg followed by panko breadcrumbs.

Step 5: Frying Time

Carefully add breaded filets to hot oil. Fry until golden brown and crispy—approximately five minutes per side. Once done, transfer them onto a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.

Step 6: Toasting Rolls

In a separate skillet over high heat, spread butter on both halves of each Kaiser roll. Grill until golden brown, about one minute per side.

Step 7: Assemble Your Sandwich

Spread tartar sauce on each bun half. Layer on lettuce, sliced tomatoes, onions, and top it off with a fried fish filet. Add more tartar sauce if desired for extra flavor.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Pair your delicious sandwiches with homemade fries or classic potato chips for a complete meal experience!

How to Serve Fried Fish Sandwich

Serving a fried fish sandwich is all about enhancing the flavors and textures. This classic dish can be paired with various accompaniments that elevate its taste. Here are some creative serving suggestions to make your fried fish sandwich meal even more enjoyable.

Fresh Salad

A side salad made with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette can add freshness and balance to the hearty sandwich.

Coleslaw

Creamy coleslaw with a tangy dressing complements the crispy fish perfectly, adding crunch and flavor.

Pickles

Serve with dill pickles on the side for a zesty crunch that pairs well with the richness of the tartar sauce.

Sweet Potato Fries

Crispy sweet potato fries provide a sweet contrast to the savory flavors of the sandwich, making for a delightful combination.

Chips

Classic potato chips or kettle-cooked varieties offer an added crunch and simplicity that rounds out your meal nicely.

Lemon Wedges

A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the sandwich enhances the flavors and adds brightness to each bite.

How to Perfect Fried Fish Sandwich

To achieve a perfectly crispy fried fish sandwich, there are some essential techniques to follow. Here are key tips for success:

Use Fresh Fish: Always choose fresh cod filets for optimal flavor and texture. Fresh fish will yield a better result than frozen options.
Maintain Oil Temperature: Ensure the frying oil is hot enough before adding the fish. This prevents sogginess and helps achieve that perfect golden-brown crust.
Dry Your Fish: Patting your fish dry before breading is crucial. This step helps the coating adhere better and improves crispiness.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can lower oil temperature and lead to uneven cooking.
Season Generously: Season your fish adequately with salt and pepper before frying to enhance its natural flavor.
Toast Your Buns: Lightly grilling your rolls adds flavor and texture, preventing them from becoming soggy once filled.

Best Side Dishes for Fried Fish Sandwich

Pairing your fried fish sandwich with delicious sides can elevate your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

French Fries: Crisp, golden fries are a classic companion that adds comfort and satisfaction alongside your sandwich.
Onion Rings: Crunchy onion rings provide a savory bite that complements the flaky fish beautifully.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob adds sweetness and pairs well with seafood dishes.
Baked Beans: Sweet and smoky baked beans bring a hearty element that contrasts nicely with the lighter aspects of the sandwich.
Macaroni Salad: Creamy macaroni salad offers a rich side that balances out the crispy texture of your fried fish.
Potato Salad: A tangy potato salad is another great side choice that can enhance any barbecue or casual meal setting.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Fried Fish Sandwich, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are a few to watch out for.

Not drying the fish properly: If the fish filets are wet when frying, they can become soggy instead of crispy. Always pat them dry with paper towels before dredging.
Skipping seasoning: Failing to season your fish adequately can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to season the fish generously with salt and pepper before frying.
Using the wrong oil: Using an oil with a low smoke point can result in burnt fish. Opt for neutral oils like canola or vegetable oil, which are perfect for frying.
Overcrowding the pan: Adding too many filets at once can lower the oil temperature, leading to uneven cooking. Fry in batches if necessary to keep the temperature steady.
Grilling rolls too long: Grilling your Kaiser rolls for too long can make them hard and unappetizing. Toast them just until golden brown for a soft yet crispy texture.

Refrigerator Storage

Store your Fried Fish Sandwich in an airtight container.
It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Freezing Fried Fish Sandwich

Wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Freeze for up to 1 month for best quality.

Reheating Fried Fish Sandwich

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place sandwiches on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes. This may make the bread soft but is quick.
Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and grill each sandwich for about 3-4 minutes per side until warmed through and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of fish is best for a Fried Fish Sandwich?

Cod is an excellent choice due to its flaky texture and mild flavor. Other options include haddock or tilapia, which also fry well.

Can I customize my Fried Fish Sandwich?

Yes! You can add different toppings like pickles, jalapeños, or even avocado for extra flavor. Try various sauces too!

How do I make homemade tartar sauce?

Mix mayonnaise with chopped pickles, lemon juice, capers, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Adjust ingredients to taste!

Is this Fried Fish Sandwich suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Prepare components ahead of time and assemble when ready to eat for maximum freshness.

Conclusion

This Fried Fish Sandwich offers a delightful combination of crunch and flavor that makes it perfect for any meal occasion. With its versatility, you can easily customize toppings or sides to suit your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delicious homemade alternative that beats any fast-food option!