Copycat Filet O Fish Recipe

 

Copycat Filet-O-Fish Recipe – Enjoy the Classic Fast-Food Favorite at Home

There’s something undeniably comforting about the Filet-O-Fish – a crispy fish fillet, soft bun, melty cheese, and tangy tartar sauce. Instead of waiting in line at your favorite fast-food spot, you can make this classic sandwich right in your own kitchen. This copycat recipe delivers the same golden crunch and flavorful bite, but with fresh ingredients you control.

Perfect for a quick lunch, family dinner, or a nostalgic treat, this Copycat Filet-O-Fish is crispy, creamy, and downright satisfying.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy and golden: Perfectly fried fish fillets with a crunchy coating.

• Fresh and flavorful: Homemade tartar sauce beats store-bought any day.

• Customizable: Swap the type of fish or cheese to your preference.

• Quick and easy: Ready in about 30 minutes for a fast, delicious meal.

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Ingredients

For the fish fillets:

• 4 white fish fillets (cod, pollock, or tilapia)

• ½ cup all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 egg, beaten

• ½ cup breadcrumbs or panko

• Vegetable oil for frying

For the tartar sauce:

• ½ cup mayonnaise

• 2 tablespoons dill pickles, finely chopped

• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• Salt and pepper to taste

For assembling the sandwich:

• 4 soft hamburger buns

• 4 slices processed cheese (or your preferred cheese)

• Optional: shredded lettuce

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Instructions

1. Prepare the tartar sauce:
   In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, chopped pickles, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to use.

2. Prep the fish:
   Pat the fish fillets dry. Set up a dredging station with flour mixed with paprika, salt, and pepper, a bowl of beaten egg, and a bowl of breadcrumbs.

3. Coat the fish:
   Dip each fillet first in the flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to coat evenly.

4. Fry the fish:
   Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the fillets for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.

5. Assemble the sandwich:
   Toast the buns lightly. Place a slice of cheese on the bottom bun, top with the fried fish, a generous spoonful of tartar sauce, and optional lettuce. Cover with the top bun.

6. Serve immediately:
   Enjoy while hot and crispy for the perfect copycat fast-food experience.

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Tips for the Perfect Filet-O-Fish

• Use fresh, firm white fish for the best texture.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan while frying to ensure even crisping.

• Keep tartar sauce chilled for a tangy contrast to the hot, crispy fish.

• Optional baking method: Bake the breaded fish at 425°F (220°C) for 12–15 minutes for a lighter version.

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Why You’ll Love Making It at Home

Making this Copycat Filet-O-Fish at home gives you the perfect combination of crunch, flavor, and freshness without the drive-thru. You control the ingredients, seasoning, and cooking method, resulting in a crispy, cheesy, and tangy sandwich that rivals the original.

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Final Thoughts

Whether you’re craving nostalgia, a quick lunch, or a homemade fast-food favorite, this Copycat Filet-O-Fish delivers all the flavor and satisfaction you love. Crispy, cheesy, and perfectly sauced, it’s proof that sometimes the best meals are the ones you make yourself.