COPYCAT FILET O FISH RECIPE

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Copycat Filet-O-Fish Recipe

Introduction

The Filet-O-Fish sandwich, introduced by McDonald’s in the 1960s, has become one of the most iconic fast-food seafood items in the world. With its crispy fried fish fillet, slice of American cheese, and tangy tartar sauce tucked inside a soft steamed bun, it delivers a simple yet comforting flavor combination. Making a copycat version at home allows you to enjoy the same nostalgic taste with fresher ingredients, customizable toppings, and even healthier cooking methods if you prefer baking or air-frying over deep-frying.

Ingredients (for 4 sandwiches)

For the Fish Fillets:

  • 4 white fish fillets (cod, pollock, or haddock – about 4 oz each)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or crushed saltine crackers for crunch)
  • ½ cup cornmeal (optional, for extra crispiness)
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder (helps make coating airy)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)

For the Sandwich:

  • 4 soft hamburger buns (or brioche buns, steamed or warmed)
  • 4 slices American cheese (or cheddar for stronger flavor)
  • 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce (optional, not traditional but fresh)

For the Tartar Sauce:

  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped pickles or dill relish
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon capers (optional, for authentic tang)
  • ½ teaspoon sugar
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon onion powder

Instructions & Methods

Step 1: Prepare the Tartar Sauce

  1. Mix mayonnaise, pickles, lemon juice, capers, sugar, garlic powder, and onion powder in a bowl.
  2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors blend.

Step 2: Bread the Fish

  1. Pat fish fillets dry with paper towels.
  2. In one bowl, combine flour, salt, pepper, paprika, and baking powder.
  3. In another bowl, whisk eggs and milk.
  4. Place panko breadcrumbs (and cornmeal if using) in a third bowl.
  5. Dredge fish in flour mixture, dip in egg wash, then coat in breadcrumbs. Press gently so crumbs stick.

Step 3: Fry the Fish

  1. Heat 1–2 inches of oil in a skillet to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Fry fillets for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
  3. Transfer to paper towels to drain excess oil.

(Alternative: Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15–18 minutes, or air-fry at 380°F (193°C) for 12 minutes, flipping halfway.)

Step 4: Assemble the Sandwich

  1. Steam or lightly warm the hamburger buns.
  2. Place a slice of American cheese on the bottom bun.
  3. Top with the crispy fish fillet.
  4. Spoon tartar sauce generously over the fish.
  5. Add lettuce if desired, then cover with the top bun.

History of the Filet-O-Fish

The Filet-O-Fish was created in 1962 by Lou Groen, a McDonald’s franchise owner in Cincinnati, Ohio. Because many local Catholic customers avoided meat on Fridays, burger sales dropped. Groen proposed a fried fish sandwich to appeal to them, and it became a permanent menu item in 1965. Since then, the Filet-O-Fish has remained a beloved option worldwide, especially during Lent.

Benefits of Making It at Home

  1. Fresher Ingredients – You control the quality of fish and oil.
  2. Healthier Options – Bake or air-fry instead of deep-fry.
  3. Customizable – Add lettuce, use brioche buns, or swap in sharp cheddar.
  4. Budget-Friendly – Restaurant-quality at a fraction of the price.
  5. Family-Friendly – Kids and adults love the mild fish flavor.

Formation

This sandwich’s formation comes from layers of contrasting textures and flavors:

  • Crispy breaded fish provides crunch.
  • Creamy tartar sauce balances tang and richness.
  • Melted cheese adds smooth, salty creaminess.
  • Soft steamed bun ties everything together for a satisfying bite.

Conclusion

The Copycat Filet-O-Fish recipe proves that fast-food classics can be recreated at home with even better results. Crispy, cheesy, tangy, and comforting, this sandwich brings nostalgia with every bite while letting you elevate it with premium fish and homemade tartar sauce. It’s an easy win for weeknight dinners, family meals, or even game-day snacks.

Lovers of the Filet-O-Fish

  • Seafood Fans – who crave mild, crispy fish sandwiches.
  • Nostalgia Seekers – who grew up loving McDonald’s classics.
  • Busy Home Cooks – who want a quick, satisfying meal.
  • Families – since kids often prefer fish sandwiches over stronger seafood.
  • Comfort Food Enthusiasts – who love rich, creamy, crispy layers in one bite.

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