Name: Filet-O-Fish Copycat Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 lb white fish fillets (such as cod or haddock); 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup flour; 1 egg (beaten); Salt and black pepper (to taste); Oil (for frying); 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1-2 Tablespoon pickles (finely chopped); 1 Tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon mustard; Salt and pepper (to taste); 4 Burger buns; 4 Slices American cheese; 4 Leaves Green leaf lettuce

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Recreate the classic Filet-O-Fish sandwich at home in just 20 minutes – with crispy fish, melty cheese, and a creamy sauce that your whole family will love!

Copycat Filet-O-Fish Sandwich

Filet-O-Fish have always been a favorite for years in our household. If you’re looking to make a copycat you can recreate at home for a healthier option, you’re going to love this recipe!

If your kids are anything like mine, a trip to McDonald’s isn’t complete without a Filet-O-Fish in hand. It’s their go-to every single time…which is how I finally realized we might need a homemade version on standby. When I figured out how easy it is to recreate this classic sandwich right in your own kitchen, I had to share!

This copycat Filet-O-Fish has all the things we love about the original: a crispy, golden fish filet, soft buns, melty cheese, and that signature creamy tartar-style sauce. But the best part is that it comes together with less than 10 simple ingredients and is ready in about 20 minutes. No drive-thru line, no mystery ingredients…just a quick, family-friendly meal you can whip up anytime the craving hits!

This homemade version of the McDonald’s Filet-O-Fish sandwich is a definitely a keeper…and honestly, it might just taste even better fresh from your own kitchen!

Three Filet-O-Fish Copycat sandwiches on a wooden tray.

Ingredients

I’ve provided this quick list of shop-able ingredients for your convenience; read our disclosure policy here.

For the Fish Fillet:

Fish Fillets – Choose a firm, flaky white fish such as cod or haddock.
For the Coating – breadcrumbs, all-purpose flour, egg

For the Tartar Sauce:

Mayonnaise – You can use regular mayo or light mayonnaise, depending on your preference.
Chopped pickles – Sweet pickles are my go-to, but you could also use dill.
Flavorings – Lemon juice, mustard, salt, and pepper

Other Ingredients:

Burger buns
American cheese slices
Green leaf lettuce

Full ingredient amounts and recipe directions available in the recipe card at the bottom of the blog post.

Helpful Kitchen Tools

Instructions

Prepare the fish: Cut the fish fillets into 3-4 individual portions and season with salt and pepper. Dredge each piece in flour, dip in the egg wash, and then coat in breadcrumbs.
Fry the fish: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the fish fillets for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden and crisp. Place on a plate lined with paper towels to dry and soak up excess oil.
Make the tartar sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, pickles, lemon juice, and mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Assemble the sandwich: Lightly toast the buns. On the bottom half of the bun, place one fish fillet, spoon tartar sauce on top of the fish, add a slice of cheese, and a lettuce leaf. Finish by topping with the other half of the bun.

Step by step photo collage for how to make Copycat Filet-O-Fish sandwiches.

Prep Tips

Fish Options: The Filet-O-Fish traditionally uses a mild white fish such as cod, but pollock, haddock, tilapia, or even catfish could also work. Choose a firm, flaky fish that holds together when breaded and fried.
Breading Shortcut: Use store-bought frozen breaded fish fillets for an even quicker version.
Cheese Swap: American cheese gives that classic melt, but you can use cheddar, Colby Jack, or even pepper jack for a little kick.
Bun Choices: Soft hamburger buns are the classic accompaniment, but brioche buns or potato rolls make it feel extra special (and hold up well to the crispy fish).
Storage: Store leftover fish fillets separately from buns and toppings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days.
Reheating: For best texture, reheat fish in the oven or air fryer at 350°F for 8–10 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the breading soggy.
Make-Ahead Tip: You can bread the fish ahead of time and refrigerate for a few hours before cooking—this helps the coating stick better and saves time at dinner.

More Copycat Recipes To Try At Home:

Filet-O-Fish Copycat Recipe (Printable Recipe Card):

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Filet-O-Fish Copycat Recipe

Recreate the classic Filet-O-Fish sandwich at home in just 20 minutes – with crispy fish, melty cheese, and a creamy sauce that your whole family will love!

Prep Time10

Cook Time10

Total Time20

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Keyword: copycat, copycat McDonalds, Filet-O-Fish, Filet-O-Fish Copycat, McDonalds, sandwich

Servings: Sandwiches

Calories: 624kcal

Author: Stacey aka the Soccer Mom

Cost: $15

Equipment

Mixing bowls
Large Skillet