Mc Donallds Filet-O-Fish

Mc Donalds Filet-O-Fish Copycat Recipe

ByAnna

Sink your teeth into a soft, steamed bun filled with crispy fish filet, creamy tartar sauce, and a perfectly melted slice of cheese—just like your favorite drive-thru indulgence, but made right in your own kitchen. This Mc Donalds Filet-O-Fish Copycat Recipe delivers that nostalgic fast-food flavor with a fresher, more satisfying homemade twist. Let me tell you, it’s worth every bite.

Behind the Recipe

I’ve always had a soft spot for the Filet-O-Fish. It’s that comforting combination of textures and flavors: tender fish, crunchy coating, tangy tartar, and pillowy bread. This recipe was born from that craving, with a mission to recreate the magic of the original while giving it a home-cooked soul. After a few experiments (and a few messy buns), I struck gold—and now, you can too.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

The Filet-O-Fish was originally created in 1962 by Lou Groen, a McDonald’s franchise owner in Cincinnati. It was developed to cater to Catholic customers who abstained from meat on Fridays. Little did he know it would become a permanent menu staple across the globe. The simplicity of the sandwich—fish, cheese, tartar, and bun—has made it a beloved classic for decades.

Why You’ll Love Mc Donalds Filet-O-Fish Copycat Recipe

  • Versatile: Great for lunch, dinner, or even a quick snack.
  • Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients found in any grocery store.
  • Quick and Easy: Comes together in under 30 minutes.
  • Customizable: Adjust toppings or sauces to your liking.
  • Crowd-Pleasing: Even picky eaters love this crispy fish sandwich.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep the fish patties in advance and fry when needed.
  • Great for Leftovers: Reheat and enjoy the next day for a crispy delight.
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Mc Donallds Filet-O-Fish

Mc Donallds Filet-O-Fish

  • Author: Anna
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 sandwiches 1x
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Deep Frying
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Pescatarian
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Description

This homemade Mc Donallds Filet-O-Fish copycat recipe delivers the iconic crispy and tangy sandwich featuring flaky white fish, golden crunchy batter, soft buns, creamy American cheese, and signature tartar sauce. Enjoy a restaurant-quality seafood sandwich with easy preparation, customizable options, and nostalgic flavors made right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

Scale

Fish and Batter

  • 4 white fish fillets (cod, pollock, or haddock), cut into sandwich-sized pieces
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 cup cold club soda or sparkling water
  • Vegetable oil, for deep frying

Sandwich Components

  • 4 soft hamburger buns
  • 4 slices American cheese

Tartar Sauce

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped pickles or pickle relish
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Fish: Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels to ensure the batter sticks properly and prevent sogginess. Cut fillets into square or rectangular pieces approximately the size of the buns for easy assembly.
  2. Make the Batter: In a bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add cold club soda or sparkling water while stirring gently until the batter achieves a smooth, pancake-like consistency—not too thick or thin.
  3. Heat the Oil: Pour vegetable oil into a deep pot or fryer and heat to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to maintain this temperature for crispy, golden results without oily sogginess.
  4. Batter and Fry the Fish: Dip each fish piece into the batter, letting excess drip off. Carefully lower into hot oil and fry in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes until golden brown and the fish is cooked through. Remove and drain on paper towels.
  5. Prepare the Tartar Sauce: In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, finely chopped pickles or relish, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Adjust ingredients to achieve a creamy, tangy, and slightly chunky sauce.
  6. Assemble the Sandwich: Lightly toast the buns. Spread a generous amount of tartar sauce on the bottom half, add the fried fish fillet, place a slice of American cheese on top, and finish with the top bun. The warm fish will gently melt the cheese.

Notes

  • Use a thermometer to maintain consistent oil temperature for optimal frying.
  • Ensure fish is completely dry before battering to get the crispiest crust.
  • Keep the batter cold to preserve carbonation and enhance crunchiness.
  • Fry in small batches to avoid lowering oil temperature and uneven cooking.
  • Toast buns lightly to add flavor and prevent sogginess under the sauce.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 sandwich
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 700mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: Filet-O-Fish, fish sandwich, copycat recipe, crispy fish, tartar sauce, homemade seafood sandwich, fast food copycat

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Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

To nail that fast-food flavor, these small tweaks make a big difference:

  1. Use Alaskan Pollock or Cod: These are mild, flaky, and taste closest to the original.
  2. Steam the Buns: A quick 10 seconds in the microwave with a damp paper towel does the trick.
  3. Chill the Patties Before Frying: This helps them keep their shape.
  4. Use American Cheese: It melts just like McDonald’s and adds the right creamy note.
  5. Double-Dredge for Crunch: Coat the fish twice in flour and breadcrumbs for that extra crisp bite.

ding">Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Before you get cooking, gather these essentials:

Mixing Bowls: For dredging and coating the fish.
Shallow Plates: To organize flour and breadcrumbs.
Skillet or Deep Fryer: For frying the fish patties.
Slotted Spoon or Tongs: For flipping and removing the fish.
Paper Towels: To drain excess oil.
Microwave or Steamer: For steaming the buns.

Ingredients in Mc Donalds Filet-O-Fish Copycat Recipe

These humble ingredients come together to recreate a fast-food favorite with a homemade heart.

  1. White Fish Fillets (Cod or Pollock): 4 pieces – Mild and flaky base for the sandwich.
  2. All-Purpose Flour: 1 cup – For the dredging process and crispy crust.
  3. Breadcrumbs (Panko or Regular): 1 cup – Adds that classic crunchy texture.
  4. Eggs: 2 large – Helps the coating stick.
  5. Salt: 1 teaspoon – Enhances the flavor of the fish.
  6. Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon – Adds a mild kick.
  7. Garlic Powder: 1/2 teaspoon – Brings subtle savory depth.
  8. Vegetable Oil: For frying – Neutral flavor and high smoke point.
  9. American Cheese Slices: 4 – Creamy, melty cheese just like the original.
  10. Hamburger Buns: 4 soft buns – The classic vessel, best steamed.
  11. Tartar Sauce: 1/2 cup – Creamy and tangy, the signature sauce.

ding">Ingredient Substitutions

Want to tweak it to your needs? No problem.

White Fish Fillets: Tilapia or haddock.
Breadcrumbs: Crushed cornflakes or gluten-free crumbs.
American Cheese: Cheddar or provolone.
Vegetable Oil: Canola or sunflower oil.
Tartar Sauce: Greek yogurt with pickles and lemon juice.

Ingredient Spotlight

White Fish Fillets: Mild and flaky, cod and pollock create the perfect texture and absorb seasoning beautifully.
Tartar Sauce: Tangy, creamy, and essential—it ties the whole sandwich together with a bright finish.

Instructions for Making Mc Donalds Filet-O-Fish Copycat Recipe

Let’s turn your kitchen into a fast-food haven. Follow these steps to build your perfect fish sandwich.

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  1. Preheat Your Equipment:
    Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat (about 350°F). Prepare a wire rack or plate with paper towels.
  2. Combine Ingredients:
    In separate bowls, place flour (with salt, pepper, and garlic powder), beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs.
  3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:
    Pat fish dry, then dredge each piece in flour, dip into egg, and coat with breadcrumbs. For extra crunch, repeat flour and breadcrumb steps.
  4. Assemble the Dish:
    Once all fillets are breaded, set them aside and get your buns and cheese ready.
  5. Cook to Perfection:
    Fry fish for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
  6. Finishing Touches:
    Steam buns for 10 seconds in the microwave. Place a slice of cheese on the bottom bun, top with hot fish filet, and a generous spoon of tartar sauce.
  7. Serve and Enjoy:
    Close the sandwich and serve immediately with fries, coleslaw, or just on its own.

    8. Texture & Flavor Secrets

    The magic of this sandwich lies in its contrasts—crispy, golden coating meets soft, fluffy bun; creamy sauce complements flaky fish; melted cheese adds rich smoothness. Every element plays a role in making each bite satisfying.

    Cooking Tips & Tricks

    These tips help you keep things crispy and tasty:

    • Pat fish dry before coating to ensure crisp texture.
    • Chill the breaded fish for 10 minutes before frying to help coating stick.
    • Don’t overcrowd the pan—fry in batches if needed.
    • Use a thermometer to keep oil around 350°F for optimal frying.