Crispy Fried Fish Sandwich with Tartar Sauce – Better Than Fast Food!

 

If you’re craving the perfect crispy fried fish sandwich, look no further. This homemade fish sandwich is golden, crunchy on the outside, flaky and tender inside, and layered with tangy tartar sauce, crisp lettuce, fresh tomato, and pickles — all tucked inside a toasted sandwich bun. It’s a comforting, coastal-inspired classic that rivals any drive-thru favorite.

Whether you’re planning a quick lunch, a satisfying dinner, or a fish fry weekend, this recipe delivers big flavor with simple ingredients. Bonus? It’s ready in just 25 minutes!

 Why This Fried Fish Sandwich Is So Good

• Crispy battered fish that stays flaky inside
• Restaurant-style sandwich with layers of flavor
• Fresh, crunchy toppings like lettuce, pickles, and tomato
• Homemade tartar sauce that’s creamy, tangy, and easy
• Fast and easy to make at home – in under 30 minutes

 Ingredients Breakdown

 For the Fried Fish

• 2 fillets white fish (cod, haddock, tilapia – any firm, flaky white fish)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp paprika (smoky flavor + color)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 cup buttermilk (adds richness + helps batter stick)
• Vegetable oil, for frying (canola or peanut oil work best)

 For the Sandwich

• 4 soft sandwich buns (brioche or potato buns are great)
• ½ cup lettuce, shredded
• 1 tomato, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup pickles, sliced

 For the Homemade Tartar Sauce

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (fresh is best)
• 1 tbsp dill pickles, finely chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste

 Step-by-Step Instructions

 Make the Tartar Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together:

• Mayonnaise
• Dijon mustard
• Lemon juice
• Chopped dill pickles
• Salt and pepper

Cover and refrigerate while you prepare the fish. This helps the flavors meld together.

 Prepare the Fish Coating

In a shallow bowl, whisk together:

• Flour
• Cornstarch
• Baking powder
• Paprika
• Garlic powder
• Salt and pepper

In a separate bowl, combine the beaten egg and buttermilk.

 Bread the Fish

1. Pat fish fillets dry with paper towels.
2. Dip each fillet into the buttermilk mixture, then dredge in the flour coating.
3. Press lightly so the coating sticks well.

 Pro tip: For extra crispy texture, double-dip the fish (dip back into buttermilk and then coat again in flour).

 Fry the Fish

1. Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
2. Gently lower fish into hot oil.
3. Fry for 3–4 minutes per side or until golden and crispy.
4. Transfer to a paper towel–lined plate to drain excess oil.

 Don’t overcrowd the pan – fry in batches if necessary.

 Toast the Buns

Lightly butter and toast sandwich buns in a skillet or toaster for 1–2 minutes until golden.

 Assemble the Sandwich

1. Spread tartar sauce generously on the bottom half of each bun.
2. Add fried fish fillet on top.
3. Layer with lettuce, tomato, and pickle slices.
4. Cap with the top bun.
5. Slice, serve hot, and enjoy!

 Serving Ideas

• Pair with crispy fries, coleslaw, or a simple cucumber salad
• Add a slice of cheddar cheese or drizzle with hot sauce for a twist
• Try it with a brioche bun or even a wrap for a lighter option

 Storage & Reheating Tips

• Store leftover fried fish in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Reheat in an oven or air fryer for best crispiness — avoid microwaving.

 Not recommended for freezing after frying (texture won’t hold).

 Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 2 sandwiches
• Calories: ~480 kcal per serving

 Final Thoughts

This crispy fried fish sandwich is a delicious, satisfying meal that brings fast-food vibes straight to your home — with better ingredients and bold, fresh flavor. Once you try it, it’ll be on repeat in your kitchen, guaranteed.