Homemade Filet O Fish

Category: Family Dinner Ideas

This homemade version of the classic fast food fish sandwich features tender white fish fillets coated in a crispy panko breadcrumb exterior. The fish is seasoned, dipped in a savory egg-flour mixture, and fried to golden perfection. Each sandwich is assembled on a lightly toasted potato bun with melty American cheese and a generous dollop of tangy tartar sauce. The result is a satisfying sandwich with the perfect balance of crispy, flaky, and creamy textures that might just outshine the original.

Fatiha
By Fatiha Fatiha
Last updated Sun, 12 Oct 2025 18:41:44 GMT
A McDonald's Filet O Fish sandwich. Pin
A McDonald's Filet O Fish sandwich. | zestplate.com

This homemade version of the classic McDonald's Filet-O-Fish sandwich brings fast food magic right to your kitchen with crispy fried fish fillets, melty American cheese, and tangy tartar sauce on soft potato buns. It's a nostalgic treat that tastes even better when made from scratch.

I first recreated this recipe during the pandemic when fast food cravings hit hard but drive-thrus weren't an option. My family now requests these sandwiches regularly claiming they're even better than the original.

  • Large eggs provide the necessary binding for the breading making everything stick perfectly to the fish
  • All purpose flour creates structure in the batter ensuring a substantial coating
  • Garlic powder adds subtle savory notes without overpowering the delicate fish
  • Panko breadcrumbs are essential for that signature crispy exterior look for Japanese style panko for best results
  • White fish fillets like cod or tilapia work beautifully here choose fillets about half-inch thick for best results
  • Peanut oil or vegetable oil for frying peanut oil adds a lovely richness but vegetable oil works perfectly too
  • Potato buns offer that soft pillowy texture that makes these sandwiches so comforting toast them lightly for best results
  • American cheese slices deliver that melty classic fast food experience nothing else quite captures the nostalgia
  • Tartar sauce brings creamy tanginess use store-bought for convenience or make your own for elevated flavor

How To Make McDonald's Filet-O-Fish

Prepare the breading station
Set up your workspace with two shallow bowls. In the first bowl whisk eggs flour garlic powder salt and pepper until completely smooth with no lumps. Pour panko breadcrumbs into the second bowl. Having everything ready makes the process quick and efficient.
Season the fish
Pat fish fillets completely dry with paper towels. This crucial step ensures the coating adheres properly. Season both sides with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper applying evenly for consistent flavor throughout.
Bread the fillets
Dip each seasoned piece of fish into the egg mixture ensuring it's fully coated on all sides. The mixture should cling to the fish in an even layer. Immediately transfer to the panko breadcrumbs pressing gently but firmly to create a substantial crust. The panko should completely cover the fish.
Fry to golden perfection
Heat oil in a heavy skillet until it reaches about 350°F. A bread crumb dropped in should immediately sizzle and bubble. Carefully lower breaded fillets into hot oil allowing room between pieces. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side watching for a deep golden brown color. The fish should be opaque and flake easily when done.
Assemble the sandwiches
Place cheese slices on bottom buns then add hot fish fillets immediately so the cheese begins to melt slightly from the heat. Add a generous spoonful of tartar sauce to each sandwich and cap with top buns. Serve promptly while the contrast between crispy fish and soft bun is at its peak.

The panko breadcrumbs are truly the secret weapon in this recipe. I discovered their superior crunch factor when comparing different breadings side by side. My daughter who normally dislikes fish actually requests these sandwiches now which feels like a major culinary victory in our household.

Storage Tips

These sandwiches are best enjoyed immediately after preparation while the fish is hot and crispy. If you must store components separately refrigerate cooled fried fish fillets in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes to restore some crispness before assembling. Never microwave the fish as it will become soggy.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a lighter version bake the breaded fish fillets in a 425°F oven for 12-15 minutes instead of frying. While not quite as authentic the results are still delicious. Swap potato buns for brioche buns for a slightly sweeter richness or use gluten-free bread and flour for dietary restrictions. For a healthier alternative consider using Greek yogurt mixed with relish and lemon juice instead of traditional tartar sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Complete your fast food experience at home by serving these sandwiches with crispy french fries and a cold soda. For a more elevated meal pair with a simple side salad dressed in vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the fried fish. These sandwiches also work beautifully alongside coleslaw or potato chips for a casual weekend lunch or quick weeknight dinner.

A Filet O Fish sandwich with cheese and sauce.
A Filet O Fish sandwich with cheese and sauce. | zestplate.com

Cultural Context

The Filet-O-Fish has an interesting history dating back to 1962 when McDonald's franchise owner Lou Groen noticed declining Friday sales in his predominantly Catholic Cincinnati neighborhood where many customers abstained from meat on Fridays. His fish sandwich creation became a nationwide hit and remains one of the chain's longest-running menu items. This homemade version pays homage to that clever innovation while allowing you to control ingredients and portion sizes.

A McDonald's Filet O Fish sandwich with fries.
A McDonald's Filet O Fish sandwich with fries. | zestplate.com

Recipe FAQs

→ What kind of fish works best for this sandwich?

Cod and tilapia are recommended for their mild flavor and flaky texture, but any firm white fish will work well. Haddock, pollock, and even halibut are excellent alternatives that maintain the authentic taste and texture profile.

→ Can I bake the fish instead of frying?

Yes! For a healthier version, you can bake the breaded fish at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes until crispy and cooked through. Spray or brush the breaded fillets with a little oil before baking to help achieve a golden exterior.

→ How do I make homemade tartar sauce?

Combine 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons finely chopped pickles, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 teaspoon minced onion, and 1/2 teaspoon each of dried dill and capers (optional). Mix well and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

→ Can I prepare the fish ahead of time?

You can bread the fish up to 2 hours ahead and keep it refrigerated until ready to fry. For the best texture, fry the fish just before serving. Reheating fried fish often results in a soggy exterior and overcooked interior.

→ What sides pair well with this sandwich?

Classic pairings include french fries, coleslaw, or potato chips. For a healthier option, try a simple green salad or roasted vegetables. A dill pickle spear on the side provides a nice tangy contrast to the rich sandwich.

→ How can I ensure my breading stays crispy?

Make sure your oil is hot enough (around 350°F/175°C) before adding the fish. Don't overcrowd the pan, which can lower the oil temperature. After frying, place the fish on a wire rack instead of paper towels to maintain maximum crispiness.

Crispy Filet O Fish

Crispy panko-breaded white fish with melty cheese and tangy tartar sauce on a toasted potato bun - better than the drive-thru!

Preparation Time
15 min
Cooking Time
10 min
Total Duration
25 min
By Fatiha: Fatiha

Category: Main Dishes

Skill Level: Easy

Cuisine: American Fast Food

Output: 4 Servings (4 sandwiches)

Dietary Preferences: ~

Ingredients

→ Breading

01 2 large eggs
02 60 ml all-purpose flour
03 1 teaspoon garlic powder
04 Kosher salt, to taste
05 Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
06 120 grams panko breadcrumbs

→ Fish

07 2 boneless, skinless white fish fillets (225 grams each), such as cod or tilapia, halved crosswise

→ Frying

08 Peanut oil or vegetable oil, for frying

→ Assembly

09 4 potato buns, lightly toasted
10 4 slices American cheese
11 Tartar sauce, for serving

Directions

Step 01

In a shallow bowl, vigorously whisk eggs with flour, garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper until smooth. Pour panko breadcrumbs into a separate shallow bowl.

Step 02

Pat fish fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides evenly with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Step 03

Dip each piece of seasoned fish into the egg-flour mixture, coating thoroughly. Transfer immediately to panko breadcrumbs, gently pressing to ensure an even, firm coating.

Step 04

Pour oil into a heavy skillet to a 6 mm depth. Heat over medium until shimmering and a breadcrumb sizzles when dropped in.

Step 05

Fry breaded fish fillets in batches, turning once halfway, until golden brown and cooked through, about 2 to 3 minutes per side. Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt while hot.

Step 06

Place a slice of American cheese on the bottom half of each toasted potato bun. Arrange a hot fried fish fillet on top, followed by a generous spoonful of tartar sauce. Close each sandwich with the top bun and serve immediately, offering extra tartar sauce on the side.

Notes

  1. This homemade version replicates the famous fast-food fish sandwich with fresher ingredients and better quality fish.

Required Equipment

  • Heavy skillet or frying pan
  • Paper towels
  • Shallow bowls for breading
  • Slotted spatula

Allergen Information

Review each component for possible allergens and consult a health professional when concerned.
  • Contains fish
  • Contains eggs
  • Contains wheat/gluten
  • Contains dairy

Nutritional Information (per serving)

These figures serve as estimates and are not a substitute for medical advice.
  • Calories: 450
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Carbohydrates: 38 g
  • Protein: 24 g