Hello, welcome to my beautiful world! My name is Prisca Bush. I am a food lover; I enjoy writing about my favorite recipes.

Introduction

I’ll admit it: I’ve had a lifelong love affair with the classic Filet-O-Fish. There’s something magical about that perfectly crisp fish fillet, soft bun, and just the right amount of tartar sauce. But as much as I love it, I’ve always wanted a homemade version—one that’s fresher, healthier, and customizable without sacrificing that crispy, indulgent texture.

Enter the Baked Filet-O-Fish Burger with Crispy Fish Fillets. This recipe became a personal favorite on a busy weeknight when I wanted comfort food without the grease and guilt. It’s lightened up by baking instead of deep-frying but still maintains that golden, crunchy exterior that makes a fish burger so satisfying. The tartar sauce is tangy, the buns are soft, and the overall experience reminds me of my favorite childhood lunch—but so much better because I made it myself.

Over time, I’ve perfected this recipe, balancing the perfect crunch with a tender, flaky fish fillet, all baked in the oven to minimize oil while maximizing flavor. And the best part? You can customize it endlessly with toppings, buns, and sauces to suit your cravings.

Whether you’re looking for a fun dinner for the family, a homemade fast-food indulgence, or a healthier alternative to the drive-thru, this Baked Filet-O-Fish Burger with Crispy Fish Fillets is going to hit the spot. Let me walk you through the recipe step by step.

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Baked Filet-O-Fish Burger with Crispy Fish Fillets (2026)

Ingredients for Baked Filet-O-Fish Burger with Crispy Fish Fillets

For the Fish Fillets

4 white fish fillets (cod, haddock, tilapia, or pollock; ~4-6 ounces each)
½ cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 large eggs
1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crispiness)
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional, adds flavor)
Cooking spray or a light drizzle of olive oil

For the Tartar Sauce

½ cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon finely chopped dill pickles or relish
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon capers, chopped (optional)
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Burger Assembly

4 soft burger buns or sandwich rolls
4 slices cheddar or American cheese (optional)
Lettuce leaves
Sliced tomato
Sliced onions or pickles

How to Prepare Baked Filet-O-Fish Burger with Crispy Fish Fillets

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil.

2. Prepare the Fish Fillets

Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels.

This ensures that the coating sticks and becomes crispy.

3. Set Up the Breading Station

You’ll need three shallow bowls:

Flour mixture: Combine flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Egg wash: Beat 2 eggs in a bowl.
Breadcrumb mixture: Combine panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan (if using).

4. Coat the Fish

Dredge each fillet in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
Dip into the egg wash, making sure it’s fully coated.
Press into the breadcrumb mixture until evenly coated.
Place on the prepared baking sheet.

Optional: Lightly spray or brush with oil to encourage browning and crispiness.

5. Bake the Fish

Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the fillets are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 145°F / 63°C).

The breadcrumbs will turn crispy, and the fish inside will remain tender and flaky.

6. Prepare the Tartar Sauce

While the fish bakes, mix together in a small bowl:

Mayonnaise
Chopped dill pickles or relish
Lemon juice
Dijon mustard
Capers (optional)
Garlic powder
Salt and pepper

Taste and adjust seasoning. Refrigerate until ready to use.

7. Toast the Buns

Lightly toast the burger buns in the oven or on a skillet for extra flavor and crunch.

8. Assemble the Burgers

Spread tartar sauce generously on the bottom bun.
Place a lettuce leaf on top.
Add the baked fish fillet.
Top with a slice of cheese (optional), tomato, onions, or pickles.
Finish with the top bun.

Serve Baked Filet-O-Fish Burger with Crispy Fish Fillets immediately while the fillets are warm and crispy.

How to Serve Baked Filet-O-Fish Burger with Crispy Fish Fillets

This Baked Filet-O-Fish Burger with Crispy Fish Fillets pairs beautifully with classic sides:

1. French Fries or Sweet Potato Fries

Bake or air-fry them for a healthier option.

2. Coleslaw

The crunch and tang of coleslaw complement the rich fish.

3. Pickles and Lemon Wedges

Simple add-ons that enhance flavor.

4. Side Salad

A light green salad balances the richness of the fish.

5. Onion Rings

Crispy baked or fried onion rings elevate the burger experience.

6. Homemade Chips

Thinly sliced potatoes or tortilla chips make a fun, crunchy side.

7. Serve Family-Style

Place fish fillets, buns, sauces, and toppings on a platter and let everyone build their own burger.

Tips for the Best Baked Filet-O-Fish Burger with Crispy Fish Fillets

1. Use Fresh, Firm Fish

Cod, haddock, tilapia, or pollock work best for fillets that hold together during baking.

2. Pat Fish Dry

Moisture prevents the coating from sticking and crisping.

3. Use Panko Breadcrumbs

They create a crunchy exterior that mimics deep-fried texture.

4. Add Parmesan

Grated Parmesan in the breading adds extra flavor and browning.

5. Don’t Skip the Oil Spray

Lightly brushing or spraying the fillets with oil helps achieve a golden crust.

6. Bake at High Temperature

425°F ensures crispiness without drying out the fish.

7. Make Tartar Sauce Ahead

The flavors meld nicely if you make the sauce an hour ahead.

8. Toast the Buns

Toasted buns prevent sogginess from sauce and fish juices.

9. Customize the Toppings

Try shredded lettuce, pickled red onions, avocado slices, or spicy mayo for variety.

10. Serve Immediately

Baked Filet-O-Fish Burger with Crispy Fish Fillets is best right out of the oven.

Variations

There are so many ways to customize this Baked Filet-O-Fish Burger with Crispy Fish Fillets. Try one of these tasty variations:

1. Spicy Filet-O-Fish Burger

Add cayenne or smoked paprika to the breading, and mix sriracha or hot sauce into the tartar sauce.

2. Parmesan-Crusted Fish

Mix extra Parmesan with the panko breadcrumbs for a richer flavor.

3. Fish Sandwich Wrap

Skip the bun and serve the baked fillet in a tortilla with lettuce, tomato, and tartar sauce.

4. Gluten-Free Filet-O-Fish

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.

5. Air-Fried Fish Fillets

For an even crispier alternative, air-fry the fillets at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.

6. Cheesy Filet-O-Fish

Top the fillet with melted cheddar or Swiss cheese for a gooey twist.

7. Mini Sliders

Use dinner rolls and smaller fish fillets for a fun party version.

8. Hawaiian Filet-O-Fish

Add a slice of grilled pineapple and teriyaki mayo for a tropical flavor.

9. Asian-Inspired Fish Burger

Brush fillets with soy sauce and sesame oil, top with pickled carrots, cucumber, and Sriracha mayo.

10. Mediterranean Twist

Top the fish with tzatziki, arugula, and sliced tomatoes.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen fish fillets?

Yes. Thaw completely and pat dry before breading.

2. Can I deep-fry the fish instead?

Absolutely. Heat oil to 350°F and fry until golden brown, 3–5 minutes per side.

3. Can I make the fish fillets ahead of time?

Yes. Bread them, cover, and refrigerate for a few hours before baking. Bake just before serving.

4. How long do Baked Filet-O-Fish Burger with Crispy Fish Fillets leftovers last?

Store cooked fillets separately from buns for up to 2 days in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven for best texture.

5. Can I use a different sauce?

Yes. You can use spicy mayo, aioli, or even a garlic-herb yogurt sauce.

6. Can I use smaller fillets for sliders?

Yes. Adjust baking time for smaller fillets, usually 8–10 minutes total.

7. Can I bake the fish without panko?

Yes, but the panko gives it the classic crunchy texture. You could also use crushed cornflakes or pretzels.

8. Can I make this Baked Filet-O-Fish Burger with Crispy Fish Fillets keto-friendly?

Use almond flour or crushed pork rinds for breading and a low-carb bun.

9. How do I make tartar sauce healthier?

Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise or a 50/50 mix of yogurt and mayo.

10. Can I grill the fish fillets?

Yes, lightly oil the fillets and grill 3–4 minutes per side, but they won’t be as crispy as baked or fried.

Final Thoughts

Making a Baked Filet-O-Fish Burger with Crispy Fish Fillets at home is satisfying in so many ways. You get the comfort and nostalgia of a classic fast-food favorite, but with fresh ingredients, customizable flavors, and a healthier baked crust. The process itself is fun—coating the fish, baking to golden perfection, whipping up tangy tartar sauce—and the end result tastes like something straight from a gourmet kitchen, not your oven.

Whether you’re making dinner for your family, craving a homemade indulgence, or looking to impress friends with a fast-food classic elevated, this Baked Filet-O-Fish Burger with Crispy Fish Fillets recipe delivers every time. The crispy exterior, tender flaky fish, soft buns, and zesty sauce make for a meal that’s universally loved. You’ll find yourself making it again and again, each time adjusting the toppings or sauces to suit your mood.

Baked Filet-O-Fish Burger with Crispy Fish Fillets is simple, delicious, and fun—everything a home-cooked comfort meal should be. Give it a try, and you may never go back to drive-thru fish sandwiches again.