Craving that famous fast-food fish sandwich but want something a bit more special? These homemade Filet-O-Fish Sliders bring all the nostalgic flavors you love but in an adorable, perfectly portioned package that’s guaranteed to impress. The combination of crispy, golden-brown fish fillets, tangy tartar sauce, and melty American cheese on soft slider buns creates an irresistible bite that’s both familiar and elevated.
Perfect for game day gatherings, casual weekend lunches, or even as a fun family dinner, these miniature fish sandwiches strike the perfect balance between comfort food and something a little special. The best part? They’re surprisingly simple to make at home with ingredients you can easily find at any grocery store.
Why You’ll Love This
- Quick and easy to prepare—ready in just 45 minutes from start to finish
- Perfect portion size makes these ideal for parties, appetizers, or kid-friendly meals
- Homemade tartar sauce tastes fresher and more flavorful than store-bought versions
- Customizable with your choice of fish and toppings to suit your preferences
- Baking option available for those who prefer not to fry, making this recipe more versatile
Ingredients
- 9-12 breaded fish burgers or fish filets, store bought or homemade (quantity depends on size)
- 12 slider buns or dinner rolls
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 12 slices American cheese or cheddar cheese
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sweet relish or finely minced dill/sweet pickles
- ½ tablespoon dried dill (use only ¼ tablespoon if using dill pickles)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two sheet pans with parchment paper or foil.
- Place the breaded fish burgers or filets on one sheet pan and bake in the oven according to the package directions.
- In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, relish, lemon juice, and dill. Mix thoroughly until evenly combined. Set aside in the refrigerator to chill.
- Place the slider buns on the second sheet pan. Brush the tops with melted butter and warm them in the oven for 2-3 minutes.
- Remove the buns from the oven and carefully slice them through the center. Set the tops aside.
- Place a slice of cheese on each bottom bun. Add the cooked fish filets on top of the cheese. Spread the prepared tartar sauce evenly over the fish filets. Place the top buns back on.
- Cut the assembled sliders into individual portions. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips & Variations
- For a healthier version, bake the breaded fish at 425°F (220°C) for 12-15 minutes instead of frying.
- Add a slice of tomato or pickles for extra flavor and texture.
- Try using seasoned breadcrumbs or adding herbs like dill or parsley to the breading mixture.
- For spicier sliders, add a dash of hot sauce to the tartar sauce or sprinkle cayenne pepper into the flour mixture.
- Make mini versions using dinner rolls for bite-sized party appetizers.
- Substitute the American cheese with cheddar or Swiss for a different flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
These Filet-O-Fish Sliders pair perfectly with crispy french fries or sweet potato fries for a complete fast-food inspired meal at home. For a lighter option, serve alongside a fresh coleslaw or a simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette.
For entertaining, arrange the sliders on a large platter with small bowls of extra tartar sauce, pickle chips, and lemon wedges so guests can customize their sliders to taste. A cold beer or sparkling lemonade makes for a refreshing beverage pairing.
Notes
- Fish is cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Leftover sliders can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, though the breading may soften.
- For best results, reheat leftover fish in a toaster oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
- The tartar sauce can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
FAQs
Can I use frozen fish fillets?
Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry with paper towels before breading to ensure the coating sticks properly.
What’s the best type of fish to use for these sliders?
Cod, haddock, and pollock work best as they have a mild flavor and firm texture that holds up well to frying.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free flour, breadcrumbs, and slider buns. The rest of the recipe remains the same.
How do I keep the fish warm while cooking in batches?
Place the fried fish on a wire rack set over a baking sheet in a 200°F (95°C) oven until all pieces are cooked and you’re ready to assemble.
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