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homemade crispy fish sandwich recipe

Homemade Crispy Fish Sandwich Recipe

This Homemade Crispy Fish Sandwich is golden, crunchy, and loaded with flavor! Featuring lightly battered fish fillets fried to perfection, soft sandwich buns, and fresh toppings with a tangy sauce, it’s a quick and easy meal that tastes better than takeout. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a fun weekend treat.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 14 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Course: Main Dish, Sandwich, Seafood
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

  • For the Fish:
  • 1 lb white fish fillets cod, haddock, or tilapia
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup cornmeal
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • 1 large egg
  • ¼ cup milk
  • Vegetable oil for frying
  • For the Sandwich:
  • 4 sandwich buns brioche or soft rolls
  • Lettuce leaves
  • Tomato slices
  • Pickles
  • Tartar sauce or mayonnaise

Equipment

  • Large skillet or deep fryer
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Tongs
  • Plate lined with paper towels
  • Measuring cups & spoons

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Fish
  2. Pat fish fillets dry. In one bowl, mix flour, cornmeal, salt, pepper, and paprika. In another bowl, whisk egg and milk together.
  3. Coat the Fish
  4. Dip each fillet into the egg mixture, then dredge in the flour-cornmeal mixture, pressing gently to coat.
  5. Heat Oil
  6. In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat about ½ inch of oil over medium-high heat until shimmering (or 350°F / 175°C if using a thermometer).
  7. Fry the Fish
  8. Fry fillets in batches for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to paper towels to drain.
  9. Assemble Sandwiches
  10. Toast buns lightly if desired. Spread tartar sauce on both sides, then layer with lettuce, tomato, pickles, and crispy fish fillet. Top with bun and serve immediately.

Notes

Use fresh or thawed fish for best results.
For extra crispiness, double dredge the fish (egg → flour → egg → flour).
Swap tartar sauce for spicy mayo or aioli for a flavor twist.
Serve with fries, coleslaw, or a side salad for a complete meal.