Description

Golden, crispy, and packed with flavor, this Crunchy Fried Cod Fish Sandwich is everything you want in a hearty, satisfying bite. Fresh cod fillets are seasoned and coated in a light, ultra-crispy breadcrumb crust, then fried to perfection and served on toasted buns with lettuce, pickles, and creamy tartar sauce. Whether it’s a weekend treat or a quick dinner, this sandwich is sure to satisfy all your cravings.

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Ingredients

Scale

For the Fried Cod:

4 cod fillets (about 4–6 oz each)
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp smoked paprika
¾ cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1½ cups panko breadcrumbs
¼ cup cornmeal (for extra crunch, optional)
Vegetable oil for frying (canola or sunflower oil)

For the Sandwich Assembly:

4 brioche or hamburger buns
Leaf lettuce or shredded romaine
Dill pickle slices
Tartar sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Lemon wedges (for serving)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Cod
Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels.
Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
If needed, trim to fit the size of your sandwich buns.

Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station
In one bowl: add flour.
In the second bowl: beat eggs.
In the third bowl: mix panko breadcrumbs with cornmeal (if using).
Dredge each fillet in flour, dip in egg, then coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs.
Set aside and let the coating sit for 5 minutes.

Step 3: Fry the Cod
Heat about ½ inch of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
When the oil is hot (about 350°F), add the cod fillets in batches.
Fry 3–4 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
Transfer to paper towels or a wire rack to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Toast the Buns
Lightly toast the buns in a skillet or under the broiler for 1–2 minutes until golden.

Step 5: Assemble the Sandwiches
Spread tartar sauce on both bun halves.
Place a crispy cod fillet on the bottom bun.
Top with lettuce, pickles, and more tartar sauce if desired.
Finish with the top bun and serve immediately with lemon wedges.

Notes

Dry the Fish – This helps the coating stick and fry evenly.
Use Panko – These breadcrumbs give the crispiest texture.
Don’t Overcrowd – Fry in batches to keep oil temperature steady.
Keep Warm – Place cooked fillets in a warm oven (200°F) while finishing the rest.
Customize – Add coleslaw, sliced tomato, or spicy aioli for variety.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Cuisine: American