McDonald’s Fish Filet Sandwich Recipe

The McDonald’s Filet-O-Fish is a classic item that brings a bit of nostalgia with every bite.

You can recreate this beloved sandwich right at home, complete with a crispy fish filet, tangy tartar sauce, and soft steamed bun.

One key to success is making sure your fish fillets are thoroughly dried before breading to achieve that appealing crunch.

I really like this recipe for its simplicity and satisfying flavors that are both comforting and rewarding.

How to Make a McDonald’s Fish Filet Sandwich

Ingredients

• 4 pieces Cod (4 oz. each)
• 1 Egg
• ½ cup All-Purpose Flour
• ½ cup Panko Bread Crumbs
• 1 tsp Salt
• ½ tsp Black Pepper
• 4 slices American Cheese
• 4 Burger Buns
• 1 cup Vegetable Oil (for frying)
• ½ cup Mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp Pickle Relish
• 1 tbsp Lemon Juice
• ¼ tsp Paprika

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Begin by drying the cod fillets with paper towels, seasoning them with salt and black pepper.

Allow the fish to sit while you prepare the other components.

Step 2:

In one shallow bowl, whisk together the egg with paprika.

In another bowl, combine flour and the remaining salt and pepper.

Prepare a third bowl with panko bread crumbs.

Step 3:

Dip each fish fillet first in the flour mixture, then into the egg, and finally roll it in panko to coat evenly.

Make sure every fillet is well-coated for maximum crunch.

Step 4:

Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat until it shimmers.

Fry the fish pieces for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.

Remove and drain them on paper towels.

Step 5:

Mix mayonnaise, pickle relish, and lemon juice in a small bowl to create the tartar sauce.

Spread the sauce on both sides of each bun.

Add a slice of American cheese.

Top with crispy fish.

Serve immediately.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Choosing Your Fish:

Always choose fresh, firm, white fish like cod or haddock for the best texture.

Thicker fillets hold up better during frying and provide a juicy bite.

Keeping Your Oil Hot:

Watch your oil temperature closely during frying.

If the oil is too cool, the fish will absorb more oil and become greasy.

Tartar Sauce Variations:

You can modify the tartar sauce based on your taste preferences.

Adding fresh herbs like dill or chives brings a fresh flavor.

Cheese Tips:

Using cheese slices with a creaminess that complements the crisp fish is crucial.

Microwave the cheese on the bun for a few seconds to melt it perfectly before assembling.

Bun Selection:

Choose soft, freshly baked buns for the ideal sandwich experience.

Toasting them lightly adds an extra layer of texture.

What to Serve with McDonald’s Fish Filet Recipe

Classic French Fries

French fries are a classic pairing with the McDonald’s Fish Filet, providing a crispy contrast to the soft texture of the sandwich.

You can keep it simple with store-bought fries or make your own by slicing and frying russet potatoes.

Either way, they complement the sandwich wonderfully with a bit of saltiness.

Coleslaw

A fresh coleslaw adds a nice crunch and a tangy zing to the meal, working great alongside the fish filet.

You can toss together cabbage, carrots, and a light vinaigrette or creamy dressing.

Experiment with different types of cabbage like red or Napa for a fun twist.

Sweet Potato Fries

For something a bit different, try serving sweet potato fries.

They bring a touch of sweetness that pairs surprisingly well with the tangy tartar sauce.

You can bake them for a healthier option, and don’t forget a sprinkle of sea salt to enhance the flavors.

Roasted Asparagus

Roasted asparagus is another unexpected choice that offers a savory and slightly bitter edge.

Just toss asparagus spears with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast them until tender.

It’s a delicious and elegant option if you’re feeling a little fancy.

Mango Avocado Salad

Looking for something fresh and exotic?

Try a mango avocado salad!

The creamy avocado and sweet mango pieces blend together nicely and provide a refreshing side.

Just combine them with a touch of lime juice and cilantro, and it’s ready to serve.

Variations and Substitutions

Alternative Fish Options

You can switch from cod to other types of white fish like haddock or tilapia if you’re looking for something different.

Each brings its own flavor and texture, so feel free to pick what suits you best.

Cheese Substitutes

If American cheese isn’t your favorite, you can replace it with cheddar or Swiss for a different twist.

Playing around with different cheeses allows you to experiment with flavors you enjoy.

Customized Batter

Try adding spices like garlic powder or paprika to the batter to enhance the flavor profile.

It’s all about making it your own with spices that you love.

Sauces and Spreads

Swap out tartar sauce for a spicy aioli or a dill and lemon mayo if you’re feeling adventurous.

These sauces offer unique and exciting variations for your sandwich.

How to Store Leftover McDonald’s Fish Filet Recipe

Refrigerator Storage

You can keep your leftover fish fillets in the refrigerator for up to two days.

Place the fish in an airtight container to retain its freshness and prevent odors from affecting other foods.

Always store the fish in the coldest part of the fridge to maintain its quality.

Freezing Leftovers

If you aren’t planning to eat the leftovers soon, freezing is a great option.

Carefully wrap the fish fillets in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer bag to avoid freezer burn.

Label the bag with the date to help you remember when you stored them.

Thawing Tips

When you’re ready to enjoy your fish again, make sure to thaw it safely.

Transfer the frozen fish from the freezer to the refrigerator to let it thaw slowly overnight.

By thawing in the fridge, you’ll help maintain the texture and flavor of your fish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Choosing the Wrong Fish

Make sure you select a mild, flaky white fish for the authentic taste!

Cod or haddock are the best choices!

Avoid fish with strong flavors that could overpower the sandwich.

Using the Wrong Cheese

Only use half a slice of American cheese.

Some folks use a fully heavy cheese slice and find it too rich or overpowering here.

Sticking to half a slice keeps the sandwich balanced!

Overcooking the Fish Filet

Don’t fry the fish for too long.

Keeping a close eye ensures it’s crispy on the outside and tender inside.

Overcooking makes the filet tough and dry, so aim for golden perfection!