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Make your favorite McDonald’s Filet-O-Fish right at home! Crispy fried fish, melty cheese, and homemade tartar sauce come together for the ultimate comfort sandwich.

If you’ve ever ordered a Filet-O-Fish from McDonald’s, you know it’s one of those quiet little menu items that doesn’t always get the spotlight but has a loyal fan base. My boys have always loved fish sticks and this sandwich is one of their favorites. Instead of making a drive-thru run, I decided to start making them at home.

Honestly? I think the homemade version is even better. You get that soft bun, melty cheese, crispy golden filet, and creamy tartar sauce, but fresher, hotter, and with way more flavor. Plus, I love that I can serve it to the whole family for dinner without juggling takeout bags.

This recipe is surprisingly easy, and you’ll even make the tartar sauce from scratch (don’t worry, it’s only a handful of ingredients!). It’s the perfect comfort meal when you want something fast food–inspired but homemade and cozy.

What is a Filet-O-Fish?

The Filet-O-Fish is McDonald’s classic fried fish sandwich, first introduced in the 1960s as a meat-free option for Fridays during Lent. It’s made with a crispy fried fish filet (usually white fish like cod or pollock), a slice of American cheese, tartar sauce, and a soft steamed bun.

It may not be as flashy as a Big Mac, but it has a cult following, and once you taste it, you’ll see why, it’s simple, comforting, and always satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Restaurant quality at home – tastes just like (or better than!) the real thing.

• Simple ingredients – nothing fancy required.

• Kid-approved – my boys devour these without complaint.

• Homemade tartar sauce – creamy, tangy, and so fresh.

• Customizable – make it with half or whole cheese, steamed buns, or extras like lettuce and pickles.

When to Serve Copycat Filet-O-Fish

This sandwich makes a fun and cozy meal any night of the week, but it’s especially great for:

• Quick weeknight dinners – ready in under 30 minutes.

• Fridays during Lent – a classic fish option the whole family will eat.

• Lunch at home – better than takeout, and hot off the stove.

• Family comfort food nights – something different from the usual chicken or pasta.

• A treat for seafood lovers – a homemade version of their favorite fast food.

Ingredients 

For the Sandwich

• 4 skinless cod filets – white, flaky fish works best (cod, pollock, or tilapia).

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided – seasons both the wet and dry dredge.

• 1 egg – helps bind the coating.

• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise – keeps the batter light.

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard – adds a subtle tang.

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon flour – gives crispiness to the batter.

• ¼ teaspoon paprika – adds color and flavor.

• 2 cups panko breadcrumbs – pulsed slightly finer in the food processor for that perfect coating.

• Light oil for frying – canola or vegetable oil works well.

• 4 soft brioche or potato buns – the softer the better for that classic feel.

• 4 slices American cheese – melty and creamy, just like the original.

For the Tartar Sauce

• 1 cup mayonnaise – creamy base.

• 2 teaspoons dill relish – adds tang.

• 1 teaspoon sugar – balances the flavors.

• 3 teaspoons finely chopped onion – gives freshness and bite.

How to Make Copycat McDonald’s Filet-O-Fish

1. Make the wet dredge: Whisk together egg, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, cornstarch, flour, and half the salt.

2. Prepare the breadcrumbs: Pulse panko in a food processor to make them slightly finer, then mix with paprika and remaining salt.

3. Heat the oil: Pour about an inch of oil into a skillet and heat over medium-high.

4. Bread the filets: Dip each piece of fish into the wet mixture, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture.

5. Fry until golden: Fry filets in batches for about 3–4 minutes per side until crispy and golden brown.

6. Make tartar sauce: Stir together mayonnaise, relish, sugar, and onion.

7. Drain: Place fried filets on a wire rack or paper towel to remove excess oil.

8. Assemble: Add a slice of cheese to the bottom bun, top with hot fried fish, spoon tartar sauce over top, and finish with the bun lid.

9. Serve hot: Enjoy immediately while crispy and melty!

Substitutions

• Fish: Cod, pollock, haddock, or even tilapia work well.

• Buns: Brioche, potato, or any soft sandwich bun.

• Cheese: Use half a slice like McDonald’s does, or a full slice for extra cheesy goodness.

• Tartar sauce: Store-bought works in a pinch, though homemade is best.

Variations

• Extra crispy: Double coat the filets by dipping them twice.

• Spicy version: Add cayenne or chili powder to the breadcrumb mix.

• Deluxe: Add lettuce, tomato, or pickles for extra crunch.

• Baked version: Spray breaded fish with oil and bake at 425°F until golden.

Tips & Tricks

• Don’t overcrowd the skillet when frying, cook in batches for best results.

• Use a thermometer if you can; oil should be around 350°F.

• Place filets on a wire rack instead of paper towels to keep them crispy.

• Toast or steam buns for that true copycat touch.

• Serve sandwiches immediately so the cheese melts perfectly against the hot fish.

FAQs

Can I air fry the fish?
Yes! Spray with oil and air fry at 400°F for about 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway.

Can I make these ahead?
The tartar sauce can be made up to 2 days in advance, but fry the fish fresh for best results.

Do I have to use American cheese?
For a true copycat, yes—but you can swap with cheddar, Swiss, or provolone.

Can I bake instead of fry?
Yes, though you won’t get quite the same crispiness. Bake at 425°F until golden and cooked through.

What’s the best fish to use?
Cod is my favorite for its flaky texture, but any mild white fish will work.

Serving Ideas

• With homemade fries for a true fast-food-at-home meal.

• With coleslaw and potato salad for a classic fish fry vibe.

• With sweet potato fries for a cozy twist.

• On its own with pickles or extra tartar sauce.

• As sliders on small buns for the kids.

Storage and Make Ahead Tips

• Fridge: Store leftover sandwiches (separated) in an airtight container up to 3 days.

• Reheat: Re-crisp fish in the oven at 375°F for best results.

• Tartar sauce: Store in the fridge up to 5 days.

• Make ahead: Fry the fish and keep warm in the oven until ready to assemble.

If you love recreating your favorite restaurant meals at home, this Copycat McDonald’s Filet-O-Fish is going to be your new go-to! Crispy, flaky fish fillets with melty cheese and tangy tartar sauce on a soft bun — just like the classic you crave. And if you’re looking for more copycat favorites, check out these reader-loved recipes:

• Copycat McDonald’s Chicken Nuggets – Tender, crispy nuggets with that signature McDonald’s crunch. Perfect for dipping in your favorite sauces.

• Copycat Taco Bell Apple Empanadas – Flaky pastry pockets filled with warm, cinnamon-spiced apples. Just like the ones from Taco Bell’s dessert menu.

• Copycat Olive Garden Black Tie Mousse Cake – Layers of chocolate cake, creamy mousse, and ganache for a rich, restaurant-quality dessert.

• Copycat Starbucks S’mores Frappuccino – A cool, creamy coffee drink with chocolate, marshmallow, and graham cracker flavors.  No coffee shop required.

• KFC Chicken Pot Pie – A comforting pot pie filled with tender chicken, vegetables, and a creamy sauce under a golden crust.

• Copycat Cheddar Bay Biscuits – Soft, buttery biscuits loaded with cheddar cheese and garlic. Just like Red Lobster’s famous side.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so fun about recreating fast food favorites at home, and this Copycat McDonald’s Filet-O-Fish might be my favorite yet. Everyone in my family loves them!

It’s cozy, simple, and tastes like comfort food in sandwich form. So the next time you’re craving a Filet-O-Fish, skip the drive-thru and try this homemade version instead, you’ll be surprised at how easy (and delicious) it is.