Name: Copycat McDonald's Filet-o-Fish Sandwich Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: canola oil, for frying; 4 (4-ounce) 1-inch thick skinless cod fillets; 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided; 1 large egg; 1 tablespoon mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon paprika; 2 cups panko (Japanese-style breadcrumbs); 4 brioche hamburger buns, split; 4 American cheese slices; 2 teaspoons tap water; McDonald's Tartar Sauce, approximately 8 tablespoons; cooked shoestring fries, for serving

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 67 reviews

If you have ever found yourself craving that perfectly crispy, flaky fish sandwich from the golden arches, then you’re in for a real treat with this Copycat McDonald's Filet-o-Fish Sandwich Recipe. This homemade version captures everything you love about the original—the crunchy exterior, tender mild fish, melty American cheese, and tangy tartar sauce—assembled between soft, pillowy brioche buns. Making it yourself means fresher ingredients, no waiting in drive-thru lines, and a sandwich that tastes even better because it’s crafted with love in your own kitchen.

Ingredients You'll Need

A white marbled surface shows a neat arrangement of ingredients for cooking fish sandwiches. On the top left, three golden brown sandwich buns sit on a white plate. To the right, a large clear bowl is filled with light yellow breadcrumbs, beside it is another big clear bowl holding a yellow batter mixture. Below, three medium-sized raw white fish fillets lie in a clear round dish on the right side. Near the middle, small clear bowls contain a single raw egg yolk, light yellow mustard, white salt, reddish paprika, and a white thick sauce with herbs. On the bottom left, a small pile of pale yellow flour and a small mound of white baking powder sit in separate bowls. Next to them, three slices of orange-yellow cheese rest on a white plate. The ingredients are clearly separated and easy to identify. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Copycat McDonald's Filet-o-Fish Sandwich Recipe lies in its simplicity, with ingredients that are straightforward but key to achieving that iconic flavor and texture. Each element, from the flaky cod to the crispy panko crust and creamy tartar sauce, plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of crunch, creaminess, and rich flavor.

Canola oil for frying: Provides a neutral, high-smoke-point base perfect for getting a golden crust on the fish.
4 skinless cod fillets: Mild, flaky fish that’s traditionally used and ideal for this sandwich.
Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning both the fish and the batter for enhanced flavor.
Large egg: Helps bind the dredging mixture to the fish fillets.
Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and richness to the batter mix.
Dijon mustard: Brings a subtle tang and complexity to the coating.
Cornstarch: Works alongside flour to create a light, crispy batter.
All-purpose flour: Adds structure to the batter, helping it adhere properly.
Paprika: Gives a gentle smoky warmth and a pop of color.
Panko breadcrumbs: Japanese-style crumbs that create the signature super-crispy crust.
Brioche hamburger buns: Soft yet sturdy buns that hold everything together beautifully.
American cheese slices: Creates that iconic melty layer between fish and bun.
Tap water: Used to steam the buns gently, making them soft and warm.
McDonald's Tartar Sauce: The tangy, creamy sauce that finishes each sandwich perfectly.
Shoestring fries: The perfect classic side that pairs beautifully with the sandwich.

How to Make Copycat McDonald's Filet-o-Fish Sandwich Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Oil and Oven

Start by pouring canola oil into a Dutch oven or deep frying pot until it’s 2 inches deep; heat it up to 360 degrees Fahrenheit (182 degrees Celsius). Preheat your oven to 200 degrees Fahrenheit (93 degrees Celsius) and set a wire rack inside a baking sheet to keep your fried fish warm and crispy while you fry the remaining fillets.

Step 2: Season and Dry the Fish

Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels—a crucial step that helps the batter stick and ensures a crisp finish. Sprinkle half a teaspoon of kosher salt evenly over all sides of each fillet, seasoning them for full flavor.

Step 3: Make the Batter

In a shallow bowl, whisk together the egg, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, cornstarch, flour, paprika, and the remaining half teaspoon of kosher salt until smooth and well combined. This batter gives the fish that perfect crispy coating with a subtle tang from the mustard and a beautiful golden color from the paprika.

Step 4: Coat the Fillets in Batter and Panko

Dip each cod fillet into the batter, making sure to coat every side thoroughly, and allow any excess to drip off. Then, place it into a separate bowl of panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to cover all surfaces evenly. This technique helps create the light, extra-crispy crust that sets this sandwich apart.

Step 5: Fry the Fish

Gently place two fillets into the hot oil at a time, frying them for about 3 to 5 minutes while occasionally stirring and flipping so they brown evenly. Once golden and crispy, transfer them carefully to the wire rack set inside the baking sheet and keep warm in the oven while you fry the remaining fillets.

Step 6: Prepare the Buns and Cheese

Lay the bottom buns on a microwave-safe plate, topping each with a slice of American cheese. Sprinkle a lightly damp paper towel and place it in a small microwavable bowl alongside the buns. Cover the plate with an inverted microwave-safe bowl and heat on high for 15 to 20 seconds until the cheese melts and the buns become soft and steamy. Warm the top buns separately for about 10 to 15 seconds to make everything perfectly tender.

Step 7: Assemble the Sandwiches

Top each cheese-covered bottom bun with a crispy fish fillet, then drizzle about 2 tablespoons of McDonald's Tartar Sauce generously over the fish. Place the top bun on each sandwich and serve immediately alongside crispy shoestring fries for that classic pairing.

How to Serve Copycat McDonald's Filet-o-Fish Sandwich Recipe

A golden brown fried piece of food with a rough, crunchy texture is being held on a large, round slotted metal spatula above a white pot filled with bubbling, amber-colored oil. A metal thermometer is placed inside the pot with the oil boiling actively, and the background surface has a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To keep the sandwich true to its roots, simple garnishes usually do the trick. A little extra tartar sauce on the side adds a zingy creamy dip. If you want to add a fresh twist, a few thin dill pickle slices or a leaf of crisp iceberg lettuce can bring brightness and texture without overpowering the beloved flavors.

Side Dishes

The perfect partners for your Copycat McDonald's Filet-o-Fish Sandwich Recipe are classic fries, particularly shoestring fries that are light, crispy, and easy to dunk into ketchup or tartar sauce. For a lighter approach, a crisp green salad or steamed veggies can balance the richness of the sandwich beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your sandwich on a vibrant wooden board with a small ramekin of tartar sauce and a side of freshly cut lemon wedges for squeezing over. Another fun idea is to create mini sliders for a crowd, cutting the fillets and buns down to bite-size, making them perfect for parties or casual gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (though they rarely last long!), wrap the sandwiches tightly in foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate. The components stay best when stored separately, especially keeping the fish and buns apart to prevent sogginess. Consume within 1 to 2 days for optimal enjoyment.

Freezing

You can freeze the fried fish fillets individually on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag once firm. This way, they keep their texture upon reheating without sticking together. Buns freeze well on their own, too. Just thaw separately when you’re ready to enjoy.

Reheating

Reheat fish fillets in a hot oven or toaster oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes to regain crispiness. Microwave the buns briefly and then assemble fresh with tartar sauce and cheese for a near freshly made experience. Avoid microwaving fish fillets directly as it can make them rubbery.

FAQs

What type of fish is best for this Copycat McDonald's Filet-o-Fish Sandwich Recipe?

Skinless cod is ideal because of its mild flavor and flaky texture, which closely mimics the original sandwich. However, you can also use haddock or pollock for a slightly different but still delicious result.

Can I make the tartar sauce from scratch?

Absolutely! Homemade tartar sauce is simple to make by mixing mayonnaise, chopped pickles or relish, lemon juice, and a touch of mustard. It adds a fresh, personalized touch to your sandwich.

Is it necessary to use panko breadcrumbs?

Panko breadcrumbs deliver that signature light, crunchy texture that sets this sandwich apart. While you can substitute with regular breadcrumbs, the result won’t be quite as crisp or airy.

Can I bake the fish instead of frying?

Yes, baking is a healthier alternative. Coat the fish as directed and bake at 425 degrees Fahrenheit on a wire rack for about 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy. It won’t be quite as deep-fried crunchy but still delicious.

How do I steam the buns without a microwave?

You can steam the buns on the stovetop using a steamer basket over simmering water for about 1–2 minutes or wrap them in foil and warm them in the oven to achieve soft, warm buns perfect for the sandwich.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about recreating a beloved fast-food classic right in your own kitchen. This Copycat McDonald's Filet-o-Fish Sandwich Recipe nails that crave-worthy combination of crispy, flaky fish, melty cheese, and tangy tartar sauce, all inside soft brioche buns. Whether you're feeding a crowd or simply indulging in your own favorite comfort food, making this sandwich at home adds an extra sprinkle of love and freshness that the drive-thru just can’t match. Give it a try—you might just find your new go-to for seafood sandwiches!

Copycat McDonald's Filet-o-Fish Sandwich Recipe

Ingredients You'll Need