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Fried Fish Sandwich Recipe

Fried Fish Sandwich Recipe: Crispy, Flavorful, and Easy to Make

Crispy, golden fish fillets tucked into soft buns with fresh toppings—this fried fish sandwich recipe is a comfort food classic you’ll want to make again and again. Perfectly seasoned and fried to perfection, it’s paired with a tangy homemade tartar sauce for a meal that’s quick, delicious, and endlessly customizable. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, this fried fish sandwich recipe brings Southern flair to your table in under 30 minutes.

 

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 sandwiches 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 white fish fillets (cod, haddock, or tilapia, 4–6 oz each)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 cup cornmeal
  • Vegetable oil (for frying, about 2-3 cups depending on pan size)
  • 4 soft buns (brioche or hamburger)
  • 1 cup lettuce (shredded)
  • 8–12 pickle slices
  • ½ cup tartar sauce (homemade or store-bought)

Homemade Tartar Sauce (Optional)

  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon dill pickle relish
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste

 

Instructions

  • Prepare the Tartar Sauce (Optional): In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, pickle relish, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Refrigerate until ready to use.
  • Heat the Oil: Pour 1-2 inches of vegetable oil into a deep skillet or Dutch oven. Heat to 350°F (use a thermometer for accuracy).
  • Set Up Breading Station: Pat fish fillets dry with paper towels. In three shallow bowls, place: (1) buttermilk, (2) flour mixed with salt, pepper, and paprika, (3) cornmeal.
  • Bread the Fish: Dip each fillet in buttermilk, then dredge in seasoned flour. Dip back into buttermilk, then coat with cornmeal. Shake off excess and set aside.
  • Fry the Fish: Carefully lower 2-3 fillets into the hot oil (don’t overcrowd). Fry for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Drain on a wire rack or paper towels. Repeat with remaining fillets.
  • Assemble the Sandwiches: Toast buns lightly. Spread tartar sauce on the bottom bun, add a fried fish fillet, top with lettuce and pickles, then finish with the top bun. Serve immediately.

 

Notes

  • Fish Selection: Cod offers a flaky texture, while tilapia is milder and budget-friendly. Choose based on preference or availability.
  • Oil Temperature: Maintain 350°F to avoid soggy or burnt fish—too low absorbs oil, too high cooks unevenly.
  • Make Ahead: Bread the fish ahead and refrigerate for up to 1 hour before frying. Tartar sauce can be made 1-2 days in advance.
  • Leftovers: Reheat fish in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes to restore crispiness—microwaving makes it soggy.
  • Author: Dolan
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American, Southern

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 sandwich
  • Calories: 650 kcal
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 1200mg
  • Fat: 35g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 27g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 60g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: fried fish sandwich recipe, crispy fish sandwich, easy seafood recipe, Southern comfort food, homemade tartar sauce