McDonald’s-Style Filet-O-Fish

McDonald’s-Style Filet-O-Fish 🍔🐟

This homemade version of the iconic Filet-O-Fish is crispy, golden, and packed with flavor. Featuring tender white fish fillets coated in a crunchy panko breading, topped with melty American cheese, and served on a soft potato bun, this sandwich is a seafood lover’s dream. Paired with a side of fries, it’s the ultimate comfort food that rivals your favorite fast-food classic!

Let’s dive into how to make this delicious Filet-O-Fish step by step.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Crispy & Cheesy : The golden panko crust gives way to tender, flaky fish, topped with gooey American cheese.
2. Homemade Goodness : Skip the drive-thru and enjoy a fresher, tastier version at home.
3. Customizable : Add tartar sauce, lettuce, or pickles for extra flavor.
4. Quick & Easy : Ready in under 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
5. Perfect for Any Occasion : Great for lunch, dinner, or game-day snacks.

Ingredients

(Makes 4 sandwiches)

• 2 large eggs , lightly beaten 🥚
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour 🥣
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder 🌿
• Kosher salt , to taste 🧂
• Freshly ground black pepper , to taste ⚫
• 2 cups panko breadcrumbs 🍞
• 2 (8-oz.) white fish fillets (such as cod or tilapia ), halved crosswise 🐟
• Peanut or vegetable oil , for frying 🫒
• 4 potato buns , lightly toasted 🍞
• 4 slices American cheese 🧀

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Breading Station

1. Set up three shallow bowls for breading:
   • Bowl 1 : Place the flour , garlic powder , salt , and pepper , and whisk to combine.
   • Bowl 2 : Add the beaten eggs .
   • Bowl 3 : Add the panko breadcrumbs .

Step 2: Bread the Fish Fillets

1. Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels to ensure proper breading adherence.
2. Dredge each piece of fish in the flour mixture , shaking off any excess.
3. Dip the floured fish into the beaten eggs , ensuring it’s fully coated.
4. Finally, press the fish into the panko breadcrumbs , coating evenly on all sides. Gently press the crumbs to adhere.

Step 3: Fry the Fish

1. Heat about 1 inch of peanut or vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C) .
2. Carefully place the breaded fish fillets into the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding.
3. Fry for 3–4 minutes per side , or until golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to flip the fillets gently for even cooking.
4. Transfer the fried fish to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Assemble the Sandwiches

1. Place a slice of American cheese on top of each hot fried fish fillet to allow it to melt slightly.
2. Toast the potato buns lightly, then assemble the sandwiches:
   • Place the cheesy fish fillet on the bottom half of the bun.
   • Top with the other half of the bun.

Step 5: Serve

1. Serve the Filet-O-Fish sandwiches warm with your favorite sides, such as fries, coleslaw, or a pickle spear.
2. Optional: Add a dollop of tartar sauce or a slice of lettuce for extra flavor.

Tips for Success

1. Use Fresh Fish : Fresh or high-quality frozen fish makes a noticeable difference in texture and flavor.
2. Add Tartar Sauce : Mix mayonnaise, chopped pickles, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt for a homemade tartar sauce. Spread it on the bun for extra indulgence.
3. Make Ahead : Bread the fish fillets ahead of time, cover, and refrigerate for up to 1 day before frying.
4. Bake Option : For a healthier version, bake the breaded fish at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes , flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
5. Freeze for Later : Freeze uncooked breaded fish fillets on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Fry or bake directly from frozen, adding 2–3 minutes to the cooking time.

Perfect Pairings

This Filet-O-Fish pairs beautifully with:

• Tartar Sauce : A classic dipping sauce that complements the fish perfectly.
• French Fries : Serve with crispy fries or sweet potato fries for a complete meal.
• Sparkling Beverages : Pair with sparkling water, lemonade, or a cold soda for refreshment.
• Side Salad : Balance the richness with a crisp green salad or coleslaw.

Nutritional Information (Per Sandwich, Approx.)

(Based on 4 sandwiches, fried)

• Calories : ~450 kcal
• Protein : ~20g
• Carbohydrates : ~40g
• Fat : ~22g
• Fiber : ~2g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific brands and portion sizes.

Final Thoughts

This McDonald’s-Style Filet-O-Fish is a crispy, cheesy, and satisfying sandwich that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re craving a fast-food classic or looking for a homemade twist, this recipe delivers on flavor and texture. The combination of tender fish, golden panko crust, and melty cheese creates a dish that’s as comforting as it is indulgent.

The best part? It’s endlessly customizable, so you can tweak the toppings, adjust the flavors, or pair it with different sides to make it your own. So grab your fish fillets, coat them in panko, and get ready to enjoy a sandwich that’s as fun to share as it is to eat.