Description
Enjoy a homemade version of the iconic McDonald's Filet-o-Fish sandwich, featuring crispy fried cod fillets, melted American cheese, and tangy tartar sauce all nestled in soft brioche buns. Skip the drive-thru and savor this quick and delicious seafood sandwich made entirely at home.
Ingredients
Fish and Coating
- 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)
Sandwich Assembly
- 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
Instructions
- Prepare Oil and Oven: Pour canola oil to a depth of 2 inches into a large Dutch oven and heat over medium-high until 360°F (182°C). Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C) and arrange a wire rack on a rimmed baking sheet to keep fried fish warm.
- Season and Prepare Fish: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels, then sprinkle evenly with half of the kosher salt (1/2 teaspoon). In a shallow bowl, whisk together the egg, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, cornstarch, flour, paprika, and remaining salt until smooth.
- Bread the Fillets: Dip each fillet into the egg mixture, turning to coat all sides thoroughly and allowing excess to drip off. Transfer to another shallow bowl filled with panko breadcrumbs and coat every side evenly. Place breaded fillets on a large plate and repeat for all fillets.
- Fry the Fish: Carefully add two fillets at a time to the hot oil. Fry gently, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy, about 3 to 5 minutes. Remove the fillets using a slotted spoon and transfer to the wire rack on the baking sheet. Place the sheet in the oven to keep the fillets warm. Repeat the frying process with the remaining fillets.
- Melt the Cheese on Buns: Work with two buns at a time. Place the bottom halves on a microwave-safe plate and top each with a slice of American cheese. Lightly dampen a small paper towel and place it in a small microwavable bowl alongside the buns. Cover the plate with an inverted microwavable glass bowl and microwave on HIGH for 15 to 20 seconds until the buns are steamy and the cheese melts. Remove and place the top buns on the plate; microwave for another 10 to 15 seconds to warm.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Immediately top each bottom bun with a warm fish fillet, drizzle approximately 2 tablespoons of McDonald's tartar sauce over the fish, and cover with the top bun. Serve immediately with cooked shoestring fries.
Notes
- Ensure oil temperature is maintained at 360°F for a crispy, golden crust.
- Use fresh, dry cod fillets for best frying results and texture.
- Adjust tartar sauce quantity to taste if you prefer less or more.
- Microwaving with a damp towel creates steam and melts the cheese without drying out the buns.
- Nutrition facts include tartar sauce and fries; actual consumption may vary.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
