Fish Fillet Sandwich with Homemade Tartar Sauce

There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a perfectly crispy fish fillet sandwich loaded with fresh toppings and a tangy homemade tartar sauce. If you’ve ever craved that classic fish sandwich from your favorite seaside diner but also want the comfort of homemade goodness, then this recipe is just for you. It’s simple, delightful, and packed with flavor. You’ll never want to eat a store-bought version again!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Fish Fillet Sandwich with Homemade Tartar Sauce is not only delicious but offers the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The crispy, golden-brown tilapia fillets paired with the creamy tartar sauce and fresh lettuce on a soft bun create a delightful meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Plus, making your own tartar sauce means you can customize it to your taste. The best part? It’s easier than you might think!

Ingredients

To make this mouthwatering fish fillet sandwich, you will need the following ingredients:

• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup bread crumbs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 2 tilapia fillets, cut in half to fit on the buns
• Olive oil spray or non-stick cooking spray
• 4 hamburger buns
• 4 slices American cheese
• 1 cup lettuce, shredded

How To Make Fish Fillet Sandwich with Homemade Tartar Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Ensure the tilapia fillets are thawed if previously frozen, and cut them in half if needed to fit your hamburger buns. Set aside the fillets while you prepare your breading station.

Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station

In one bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In a second bowl, beat the two eggs. In a third bowl, place the bread crumbs. This three-bowl system will help you achieve that perfect crispy coating.

Step 3: Bread the Fish Fillets

Take one piece of the tilapia and dredge it in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off before finally coating it in the bread crumbs. Press the crumbs onto the fish to ensure a good coating. Repeat this for all pieces of tilapia.

Step 4: Cook the Fish

Preheat a large skillet over medium heat and grease it with olive oil spray or non-stick cooking spray. Once the pan is hot, carefully place the breaded fish fillets in the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Try not to overcrowd the pan; you may need to cook them in batches.

Step 5: Assemble the Sandwiches

While the fish is cooking, you can toast your hamburger buns in a separate skillet or in the oven (optional but recommended for added texture). Once the fish is cooked and the buns are toasted, it’s time to assemble your sandwiches!

Start by placing a cooked fish fillet on the bottom half of each bun, add a slice of American cheese, then top with a generous heap of shredded lettuce. Finally, add your homemade tartar sauce (recipe below) before placing the top half of the bun on.

Step 6: Make the Homemade Tartar Sauce

For a simple and tasty tartar sauce, mix together ½ cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon finely chopped pickles, 1 teaspoon lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a small bowl. Adjust the ingredients according to your taste.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your fish fillet sandwiches immediately with your favorite sides. Sweet potato fries, coleslaw, or a light salad pair perfectly with this meal. Dig in and enjoy every crispy, flavorful bite!

Expert Tips

• For an extra crunch, try using panko bread crumbs instead of regular bread crumbs.
• Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the fish to get that beautiful golden brown color.
• Feel free to let the fish rest for a minute after cooking to ensure that the coating stays crispy.
• Add your favorite spices to the flour mix for an additional flavor boost—cayenne pepper and paprika work great.

Variations and Customizations

• Swap out tilapia for another type of white fish, like cod or haddock.
• Add sliced tomatoes or pickles for extra freshness.
• Use whole wheat buns or gluten-free buns for a healthier or allergy-friendly option.
• Experiment with different cheeses; cheddar or pepper jack can enhance the flavor in delightful ways.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have leftovers, you can store the fillets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain their crispy texture, reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes. The buns and toppings are best kept separate and can be refreshed for later enjoyment.

FAQ

Can I use frozen tilapia fillets?

Yes! Just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before dredging in the flour. This will help the breading adhere better.

Can I make the tartar sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the tartar sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

What sides go well with fish fillet sandwiches?

Popular sides include sweet potato fries, regular fries, coleslaw, and salads. Choose whatever you enjoy most!

Can I bake the fish instead of frying it?

Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the breaded fish on a parchment-lined baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.

Conclusion

This Fish Fillet Sandwich with Homemade Tartar Sauce is a fantastic meal that brings the flavors of the sea right to your table. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and will surely impress your family and friends. With crispy fish, creamy tartar sauce, and fresh veggies all housed in a soft bun, each bite is a delightful experience that will leave you craving more. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and dive into this delicious homemade fish sandwich today!