Copycat Filet-O-Fish

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Copycat Filet-O-Fish brings the delicious flavors of the beloved fast-food sandwich into your own kitchen. The fish is coated in a crispy batter, then paired with a creamy tartar sauce and served on a soft bun for the ultimate bite. It’s easy to make, and you can adjust the flavors and ingredients to your liking. Whether you’re recreating a fast-food favorite or looking for a satisfying homemade sandwich, this version will surely hit the spot!

Ingredients

For the fish fillets:

• 4 white fish fillets (such as cod, haddock, or tilapia)

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

• 1/2 cup cornstarch

• 1 tsp baking powder

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp paprika

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1/2 cup cold sparkling water or club soda

• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the tartar sauce:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise

• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tbsp sweet pickle relish

• 1 tbsp finely chopped capers (optional)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

For assembling the sandwich:

• 4 soft hamburger buns (preferably steamed)

• 4 slices of American cheese (optional)

• Shredded lettuce (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the tartar sauce:

1. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, sweet pickle relish, and capers (if using).

2. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then mix everything together until smooth. Set the tartar sauce aside to allow the flavors to meld.

Prepare the fish fillets:

3. Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

4. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

5. Gradually add the cold sparkling water, stirring until the batter is smooth and thick enough to coat the fish. You may need to adjust the amount of sparkling water depending on the consistency.

6. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer over medium-high heat (about 350°F or 175°C). You need enough oil to fully submerge the fish fillets or at least cover them halfway.

7. Dip each fish fillet into the batter, coating it evenly. Carefully place the battered fish fillets in the hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the fish and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Assemble the sandwich:

8. While the fish is frying, lightly toast the hamburger buns if desired, or steam them for a few minutes to get a soft, fluffy texture.

9. Spread a generous amount of the homemade tartar sauce on the bottom half of each bun.

10. Place a crispy fish fillet on top of the sauce, then add a slice of American cheese if using.

11. Optionally, top with a little shredded lettuce for crunch and freshness.

12. Close the sandwich with the top half of the bun, and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Filet-O-Fish: Add a few dashes of hot sauce to the tartar sauce or sprinkle cayenne pepper on the fish fillets before frying for an extra kick.

• Baked Filet-O-Fish: For a lighter version, bake the battered fish fillets at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until golden and crispy, instead of frying them.

• Vegan Filet-O-Fish: Use a plant-based fish fillet or a large slice of marinated and baked tofu for a vegan version. Substitute the mayonnaise with vegan mayo for the tartar sauce.

• Cheese-Free Option: Omit the cheese if you prefer the sandwich without it. You can still enjoy the crispy fish and tangy sauce without the added dairy.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: The fish fillets are best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the fish fillets on a baking sheet in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 8-10 minutes until crispy again. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen fish fillets for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen fish fillets. Just make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before dipping in the batter.

2. Can I make the tartar sauce ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the tartar sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese on the sandwich?

Yes, you can use cheddar, Swiss, or any other cheese that you like. American cheese is the classic choice for a creamy melt, but feel free to experiment.

4. Can I skip the batter and breading?

While the batter adds a crispy texture, you could skip it and simply grill or pan-fry the fish fillets with a little olive oil and seasoning if you prefer a lighter version.

5. How do I make the fish fillets extra crispy?

To make the fish fillets extra crispy, make sure the oil is at the right temperature (350°F or 175°C). Also, don’t overcrowd the pan when frying to ensure each fillet gets an even crisp.

6. Can I add extra toppings to the sandwich?

Yes! You can add extra toppings like tomatoes, pickles, or even coleslaw to enhance the flavor and texture of the sandwich.

7. Can I use gluten-free flour for the batter?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend to make the batter for a gluten-free version of this sandwich.

8. How can I make the fish fillets more flavorful?

You can season the fish fillets with a bit of lemon zest, paprika, or even garlic powder before dipping them into the batter for more flavor.

9. How do I know when the fish is cooked through?

The fish should be golden and crispy on the outside, and the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) when checked with a food thermometer.

10. Can I use a different sauce instead of tartar sauce?

Yes, you can use other sauces like aioli, spicy mayo, or even ketchup for a different flavor.

Conclusion

This Copycat Filet-O-Fish sandwich brings the beloved fast-food classic to your kitchen with the added benefit of fresh, homemade ingredients. The crispy fish, creamy tartar sauce, and soft bun come together to create a mouthwatering sandwich that’s just as delicious as the original—if not better! Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special treat, these sandwiches are sure to become a family favorite.