Copycat McDonald’s Filet-O-Fish Sandwich Recipe

This McDonald’s Fish Sandwich copycat recipe is made with crisp baked fish fillets, creamy homemade tartar sauce, melty cheese, and soft hamburger buns. It has the familiar flavor of the classic Filet-O-Fish style sandwich, but it is easy to prepare at home with simple ingredients you can recognize. The fish turns out tender inside, golden and crunchy outside, and the sauce adds the perfect tangy finish.

If you enjoy seafood recipes, you may also like these Instant Pot Lobster Tails, seasoned with smoked paprika and ready in under 30 minutes. For another satisfying sandwich idea, try these Instant Pot French Dip Sandwiches made with beef chuck roast, Swiss cheese, and French bread.

The Filet-O-Fish was the first new item added to McDonald’s original menu and the first non-burger sandwich offered by the chain. The idea came from Paul Groen, who opened the first McDonald’s in Cincinnati. He entered a friendly challenge with McDonald’s founder Ray Kroc to see which sandwich customers preferred.

On Good Friday in 1962, the fish sandwich was tested against the Hula Burger, which was made with grilled pineapple and cheese. The fish sandwich won easily, selling 350 sandwiches compared with only 6 Hula Burgers. In 1965, the Filet-O-Fish became available on McDonald’s menus more widely.

This homemade McDonald’s Fish Sandwich copycat gives you the same comforting combination of crispy fish, soft bun, tartar sauce, and cheese, while letting you control the ingredients. Instead of relying on processed components, this recipe uses everyday pantry staples such as panko breadcrumbs, white fish fillets, mayonnaise, pickles, lemon juice, and simple seasonings.

Another benefit of making this copycat fish sandwich at home is convenience. You can bake the fish fillets in advance and keep them ready for quick lunches or weeknight dinners. The recipe is budget-friendly, family-friendly, and easy enough for beginners, yet satisfying enough to feel like a takeout-style meal.

If you want to build a full copycat-style menu, serve this sandwich with Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup. For dessert, try this Cheesecake Factory original cheesecake made with cream cheese, sour cream, and a homemade graham cracker crust.

Ingredients needed:

To make this McDonald’s Filet-O-Fish copycat recipe, you will need the ingredients listed below. For exact measurements and full instructions, see the recipe card.

Fish filet patty ingredients:

• Panko breadcrumbs: These create a light, crisp coating.
• White fish fillets: Use thin, flat fillets for the best sandwich shape.
• Soft buns: Brioche buns or classic hamburger buns both work well.
• Cheddar cheese slices: Add them as soon as the fish comes out of the oven so they soften slightly.
• Oil spray: Olive oil spray helps the breadcrumbs brown.

Batter:

• Egg: Use a room-temperature egg for smoother mixing.
• Mayonnaise: Helps the batter cling to the fish.
• Dijon mustard: Adds mild sharpness and flavor.
• Pickle juice: Gives the batter a tangy note.
• Flour: Helps thicken the batter and coat the fish.
• Kosher salt: Seasons the fillets.
• Black pepper: Adds a light peppery finish.

Creamy McDonald’s-style tartar sauce:

• Mayonnaise: The creamy base of the sauce.
• Diced pickles: Chop them very finely for the best texture.
• Fresh parsley: Adds a fresh herbal flavor.
• Capers: Drain and finely chop them before mixing.
• Fresh lemon juice: Brightens the sauce.
• White sugar: Balances the tangy ingredients.
• Kosher salt: Adjust to taste.

How to make McDonald’s filet-o-fish copycat from scratch?

Tartar sauce:

1. Make the sauce: Combine the mayonnaise, finely chopped pickles, parsley, capers, lemon juice, sugar, and salt in a small bowl. Cover and refrigerate while you prepare the fish.

Toast the breadcrumbs:

1. Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 350 degrees F.
2. Prepare the tray: Spread the panko breadcrumbs evenly on a baking sheet.
3. Spray with oil: Spray the crumbs lightly from above so they brown evenly.
4. Bake: Bake for 3 to 5 minutes, or until the breadcrumbs are golden. Transfer them to a bowl, then spray the baking tray with oil for the fish.

Bake the fish:

1. Cut the fillets: Slice the fish into square pieces that are slightly larger than the buns, since they may shrink while baking.
2. Mix the batter: In a shallow bowl, stir together the egg, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, pickle juice, flour, salt, and pepper.
3. Coat the fish: Gently dip each fish piece into the batter. Handle the fillets carefully so they do not break.
4. Add breadcrumbs: Place each battered fillet into the toasted panko and press gently so the crumbs stick to all sides.
5. Bake: Transfer the coated fish to the prepared tray and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until cooked through. Add a slice of cheese immediately after baking so the residual heat softens it.

Assemble:

1. Warm the buns: Cut the buns in half and microwave them for about 20 seconds.
2. Add the fish: Place the hot fish fillet with cheese onto the bottom bun.
3. Finish and serve: Add a generous spoonful of tartar sauce, close the sandwich, and serve right away.

How to serve:

This homemade Filet-O-Fish copycat sandwich is best served warm, right after the fish is baked and the cheese has softened. It makes a great lunch, casual dinner, or easy weekend meal. You can keep it simple with tartar sauce and a bun or customize it with your favorite toppings.

• If you do not enjoy tartar sauce, use mayonnaise, ranch dressing, lemon sauce, or malt vinegar.
• Horseradish sauce is another flavorful option for fish sandwiches.
• Ketchup or mustard can also be served on the side.
• Pair the sandwich with fries, chips, or these oven-roasted sweet potato fries.
• Add shredded lettuce and sliced tomatoes for a heartier sandwich.
• For homemade bread, try this brioche bread recipe.
• Sliced pickles and onions add crunch and extra flavor.
• A glass of iced tea pairs nicely with this crispy fish sandwich.
• Serve lemon wedges on the side so everyone can add a fresh squeeze of citrus.

Frequently asked questions

What is hydrogenated soybean oil?

Hydrogenated soybean oil is soybean oil that has been processed to make it more stable. It is commonly used in packaged foods, fast-food items, cosmetics, and other commercial products.

The hydrogenation process changes the structure of the oil and can increase saturated fat content. Some hydrogenated oils may contain trans fats, which are associated with higher cholesterol levels and an increased risk of heart disease.

Is wheat gluten bad for you?

Wheat gluten is a protein found in wheat and some other grains. It appears in many foods, including bread, pasta, pizza dough, and beer.

For most people, gluten is not harmful. However, anyone with celiac disease or a gluten sensitivity should avoid it. Eating too many gluten-containing foods can also contribute to excess calorie intake if those foods are highly processed or eaten in large amounts.

What is modified food starch?

Modified food starch is a starch used to thicken, stabilize, or emulsify foods. It is commonly found in processed products because it can hold up better during cooking, freezing, or reheating than regular starch.

You may see modified food starch listed on packaged foods, including sauces, fillings, and prepared meals. It can be made from different starch sources, depending on the product.

What are the nutrition facts in this recipe?

Nutrition will vary depending on the buns, fish, cheese, mayonnaise, and breading you use. The recipe card estimate lists each serving at 809 calories, with 47 grams of carbohydrates, 34 grams of protein, and 54 grams of fat.

Each serving also includes an estimated 124 milligrams of cholesterol, 1,519 milligrams of sodium, 503 milligrams of potassium, 2 grams of fiber, and 7 grams of sugar. These values are estimates and may change based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

How to store leftovers:

• Store: Keep leftover fish sandwiches in an airtight container, or wrap them in plastic and place them in a zip-top bag. Refrigerate for up to three days.
• Freeze: You can freeze the cooked fish fillets or assembled sandwiches for up to three months.
• Thaw: For best results, thaw frozen fish in the refrigerator overnight.
• Reheat: Warm the sandwich in the microwave for 30 to 60 seconds, or reheat the fish separately in the oven for a crispier texture.

More fish recipes to try: