The Filet-O-Fish sandwich is one of McDonald’s most popular menu items, known for its crispy fish fillet, creamy tartar sauce, and soft bun with a slice of American cheese. While it’s easy to grab one from the drive-thru, making a homemade version gives you the same flavor with fresher ingredients and full control over the process. This recipe is simple, quick, and delivers that same satisfying taste, perfect for seafood lovers or anyone looking for a lighter alternative to a beef burger.
Why This Recipe Works
- Quick and convenient: With less than 30 minutes from start to finish, this Filet-O-Fish copycat is perfect for busy days.
- Crispy and tender: The coating of flour, egg, and breadcrumbs ensures a crunchy exterior while keeping the fish moist and flaky inside.
- Customizable: You can use cod, haddock, or any white fish you prefer, and adjust the toppings or sauce to your taste.
- Affordable: Making it at home costs less than ordering from McDonald’s, especially when cooking for more than one person.
- Versatile cooking methods: While frying gives the most authentic texture, you can also bake or air-fry the fillets for a lighter version.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here are the essential ingredients for making a classic Filet-O-Fish at home:
- 2 white fish fillets (cod, haddock, or pollock work best) – fresh or thawed if frozen.
- ½ cup all-purpose flour – helps the coating stick.
- 1 egg – binds the breadcrumbs to the fish.
- ½ cup breadcrumbs – gives the fillet its crisp golden coating.
- 2 slices American cheese – for the signature creamy layer.
- 2 hamburger buns – soft, lightly toasted if desired.
- ¼ cup tartar sauce – store-bought or homemade.
- Oil for frying – vegetable or canola oil is ideal.
- Salt and black pepper – to season the fish.
These basic ingredients create an authentic taste, but you can easily adjust based on what you have at home.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the fish: Pat the fillets dry with paper towels, then season both sides with salt and black pepper.
- Set up the coating station: Place the flour in one shallow bowl, the beaten egg in another, and the breadcrumbs in a third.
- Coat the fillets: Dredge each piece of fish first in flour, then dip it into the egg, and finally coat it fully in breadcrumbs. Press lightly to make sure the coating sticks well.
- Heat the oil: In a large skillet or frying pan, heat about ½ inch of oil over medium-high heat until hot.
- Fry the fish: Carefully place the coated fillets into the pan. Fry for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Assemble the sandwich: Place a slice of American cheese on the bottom half of each bun. Add the hot fried fish fillet on top, then spoon tartar sauce generously over the fish. Cover with the top bun.
- Serve: Pair with fries, chips, or a side salad for a complete meal.
Notes & Tips:
- For a lighter version, bake the breaded fillets at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway, or air-fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
- Soft brioche buns can be used for a richer sandwich.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated in the oven or air fryer.
Homemade McDonald’s Filet-O-Fish Sandwich Recipe
Description
This homemade Filet-O-Fish sandwich is crispy, flavorful, and easy to make in less than 30 minutes. Featuring golden fried fish fillets, creamy tartar sauce, melted American cheese, and soft buns, it delivers the classic taste of McDonald’s right from your own kitchen.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Pat the fish fillets dry and season with salt and black pepper.
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Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with the beaten egg, and one with breadcrumbs.
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Coat each fillet in flour, then dip in egg, and coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs.
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Heat ½ inch of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
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Fry the fillets for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 145°F/63°C). Drain on paper towels.
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Place a slice of American cheese on the bottom half of each bun.
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Add the hot fried fish fillet on top, then spoon tartar sauce over it.
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Cover with the top bun and serve immediately.
