The Ultimate Fried Fish Sandwich

If you’re looking for the perfect fried fish sandwich that combines crispy, golden fried fish with tangy homemade tartar sauce and crunchy coleslaw, this recipe is exactly what you need. Using my crispy beer-battered fish, homemade tartar sauce, and fresh coleslaw, this sandwich is a crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s for a casual lunch or dinner, this easy-to-make sandwich is sure to become a favorite in your household!

What Makes a Great Fried Fish Sandwich?

The beauty of a fried fish sandwich lies in the perfect balance of textures and flavors. When done right, it’s a combination of crispy, golden fried fish fillets with a light beer batter, tangy tartar sauce, and fresh, crunchy toppings, all nestled between a soft, toasted bun.

It’s not just any sandwich—it’s the ideal comfort food. The key to a great fried fish sandwich is nailing that crispy coating while maintaining a flaky texture inside the fish. Pairing the fish with the right toppings helps elevate the overall experience.

To create this perfect fried fish sandwich recipe, start with crispy fried fish fillets, made using my beer-battered fish recipe. The beer batter creates that delicious golden brown crust while keeping the inside flaky and tender. For added flavor, a creamy homemade tartar sauce provides the perfect tangy contrast.

Top it off with some fresh coleslaw to add crunch, and you’ve got a sandwich that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. Whether you use a brioche bun for extra richness or a simple soft bun, the combination of flavors and textures makes this fish sandwich recipe a go-to for any meal.

Whether you're following a favorite fried fish sandwich recipe or experimenting with new flavors, the versatility of a fried fish sandwich is what makes it so enjoyable. You can keep it classic with coleslaw and pickles or spice it up with hot sauce. A well-made fried fish sandwich is satisfying, and it’s the perfect meal for casual lunches, dinners, or even special occasions.

How to Make Fried Fish Sandwiches – Overview

You can find the full recipe details, including ingredient amounts and the full instructions in the recipe card at the bottom of this post, but first, here's a quick overview of how to make the best fried fish sandwiches!

Yes, this is definitely a simple recipe, but there are a few specific techniques and tips that will ensure your sandwich turns out perfectly crispy and flavorful every time. I'm excited to share with you how I do it!

Putting together this fried fish sandwich is a breeze! Start by preparing your fish fillets using my Crispy Beer-Battered Fish recipe. It's also perfectly fine to use store bought frozen fish, but homemade is always a winner in my book!

While the fish is frying, whip up a quick batch of Homemade Tartar Sauce and mix some crunchy Homemade Coleslaw.

Once everything is ready, lightly toast your buns, spread tartar sauce on each side, and layer the fried fish fillet and coleslaw in between. It’s that simple!

How to Perfect Your Fish Fry Sandwich

If your fish fry sandwich isn’t turning out as crispy or flavorful as you'd like, don’t worry—there are a few simple tricks to perfect it.

One common concern is keeping the fried fish crispy, especially when assembling the sandwich. To prevent sogginess, place the fried fillets on a wire rack set over a baking sheet after frying. This allows the excess oil to drip off while keeping the fish fillets nice and crispy.

Also, lightly toasting the buns is a great way to create a barrier between the sauce and the fish, so the sandwich stays crisp longer.

Be sure to fry the fish in oil at the correct temperature (around 350°F) for the perfect golden brown crunch without the fish absorbing too much oil. For more tips on achieving that perfectly crispy battered fish, be sure to check out my blog post on Crispy Beer-Battered Fish.

Can I Make a Fried Fish Sandwich Ahead of Time?

Yes, this sandwich can be prepped in advance! You can fry the fish fillets ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the fillets in the oven to restore their crispy texture before assembling the sandwiches.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

For the best results, always assemble the sandwiches fresh. Reheating the individual components separately ensures that the fish stays crispy and the buns don’t become soggy. Toast the buns and add the tartar sauce and coleslaw just before serving to keep everything fresh and flavorful.

Leftover fried fish fillets can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the fillets on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container.

To reheat and maintain the crispiness, place the fillets in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until they’re heated through and crispy again. If using an air fryer, reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. This method helps to restore the fillets' crispy coating without drying out the fish inside.

Other Ways to Dress Your Fried Fish Sandwich

While the classic fried fish sandwich with tartar sauce and coleslaw is delicious, there are plenty of other ways to dress it up and make it your own! Here are some ideas for toppings that can take your sandwich to the next level:

• Lettuce and Tomato: Add fresh, crisp lettuce and slices of juicy tomato to give the sandwich a refreshing crunch and a burst of flavor.
• Pickles: Dill pickles or bread-and-butter pickles add a tangy bite that complements the rich flavors of the fried fish.
• Onions: Thinly sliced red onions or sweet onions add a bit of sharpness to balance the richness of the sandwich.
• Cheese: A slice of cheese, such as American, cheddar, or Swiss, melts beautifully over the hot fish fillet, adding an extra layer of creamy flavor.
• Hot Sauce or Spicy Mayo: For those who like a little heat, drizzle some hot sauce or spread a bit of spicy mayo for a kick.
• Avocado: Creamy avocado slices can add a touch of smoothness and a bit of healthy fat, making the sandwich feel indulgent.
• Remoulade Sauce: If you’re looking for a more complex flavor, try using remoulade sauce instead of or alongside tartar sauce. It has a rich, tangy flavor with a hint of spice that works beautifully with fried fish. I'm working on a homemade remoulade recipe, so please watch for it! In the mean time, you could also use store bought if you like!

Feel free to mix and match these toppings to create a sandwich that suits your taste. Whether you keep it simple or load it up, a fried fish sandwich is always a satisfying meal!

What to Serve with a Fried Fish Sandwich – Serving Suggestions

Pair your fried fish sandwich with some crispy fries, potato wedges, potato chips, or an extra side of coleslaw.

You can also enjoy this sandwich with a light salad or even a refreshing vegetable slaw for a well-rounded meal.