Crispy Fish Sliders

This homemade version of the classic Filet-O-Fish transformed into adorable sliders has become my weekend family favorite. The combination of crispy fish, melty cheese, and tangy tartar sauce on buttery slider buns creates the perfect bite-sized treat that disappears within minutes at our table.

I first made these sliders for a casual Friday night dinner, and they've since become our go-to comfort food. My kids actually cheer when they see the fish filets coming out of the freezer now.

Ingredients

• Fish filets The foundation of our sliders. Store-bought breaded fish saves tremendous time while still delivering that crispy exterior and flaky interior we all love.
• Slider buns These petite, soft rolls create the perfect fish-to-bread ratio. Look for potato rolls or brioche slider buns for extra richness.
• American cheese Provides that classic melt and mild flavor that complements fish perfectly. Choose quality American cheese that melts smoothly.
• Mayonnaise The creamy base for our tartar sauce. Use full-fat mayo for the richest flavor.
• Sweet relish Adds tanginess and crunch to the tartar sauce. Choose a good quality relish without artificial coloring.
• Dried dill Brings a fresh, herbal note to the tartar sauce that pairs beautifully with fish. Make sure your dried herbs are fresh and aromatic.
• Lemon juice Brightens the entire flavor profile with acidity. Always use fresh lemon juice rather than bottled for the best flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F and line two sheet pans with parchment paper. The dual sheet pan approach allows you to cook fish and toast buns simultaneously, ensuring everything is warm when assembled.

Bake the fish

Arrange the breaded fish filets on one prepared sheet pan, spacing them evenly to ensure proper air circulation. Bake according to package instructions until golden brown and crispy, typically 12 to 15 minutes. The fish should flake easily with a fork when done.

Make the tartar sauce

While the fish bakes, combine mayonnaise, sweet relish, lemon juice, and dried dill in a small bowl. Stir until thoroughly incorporated, ensuring no clumps of mayonnaise remain. Refrigerate to allow flavors to meld together, making the sauce even more delicious.

Prepare the buns

Place the slider buns on the second sheet pan and brush the tops generously with melted butter. The butter creates a beautiful golden exterior and adds richness. Warm in the oven for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly toasted but still soft.

Slice the buns

Remove the warmed buns and carefully slice them horizontally with a serrated knife, keeping the top and bottom portions connected at the back if possible. This makes assembly easier and keeps everything aligned.

Assemble the sliders

Place a slice of cheese on each bottom bun so the residual heat from the fish will melt it perfectly. Add a piece of fish on top of the cheese, then generously spread tartar sauce over each filet. The warm fish against the cool sauce creates a delightful temperature contrast.

Serve immediately

Replace the top buns, slice into individual portions if needed, and serve while hot. The contrast between crispy fish, melty cheese, cool tartar sauce, and soft bun is absolutely perfect when fresh.

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The secret to these sliders is definitely in the tartar sauce. I discovered that letting the sauce chill for even just 10 minutes while the fish cooks makes a remarkable difference in flavor. My grandmother taught me this trick, and now I never serve fish sandwiches without this simple but crucial step.

Storage and Reheating

These sliders are best enjoyed immediately after assembly, but if you need to store leftovers, separate components work best. Store cooked fish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat fish in a 350°F oven for 5 to 7 minutes until crispy again. The tartar sauce can be stored separately in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Fresh buns make a big difference when reheating, so consider purchasing new ones if possible.

Perfect Pairings

These sliders pair wonderfully with classic sides like french fries or potato chips for a casual meal. For a healthier option, serve with a crisp coleslaw or a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. The acidity of the sides balances the richness of the sliders beautifully. For beverages, try a cold lemonade, iced tea, or even a light beer if serving adults.

Make It Your Own

While this recipe creates a delicious copycat version of the famous fast food fish sandwich, you can easily customize it to suit your preferences. Try panko-crusted cod instead of store-bought filets for an elevated version. Swap the American cheese for pepper jack to add a spicy kick, or use Swiss for a more sophisticated flavor. Add thinly sliced tomatoes or lettuce for freshness and crunch. The basic formula works with many variations.

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Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use homemade fish filets instead of store-bought?

Absolutely! While store-bought breaded fish filets are convenient, you can certainly make your own by dipping fish pieces in flour, egg wash, and breadcrumbs before baking or frying. Cod, haddock, or pollock work particularly well for these sliders.

→ What's the best cheese to use for these sliders?

American cheese or mild cheddar are recommended for their excellent melting properties and complementary flavor. However, you could also try Swiss cheese for a different taste profile, or pepper jack for a spicy kick.

→ Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

The tartar sauce can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator. The fish is best prepared fresh, but you can assemble the sliders shortly before serving and keep them warm in a low oven (200°F) for up to 30 minutes.

→ What sides pair well with these fish sliders?

Classic pairings include french fries, coleslaw, or potato chips. For healthier options, try a green salad, roasted vegetables, or sweet potato fries. A simple pickle spear on the side also complements the flavors nicely.

→ How can I make these sliders spicier?

Add a dash of hot sauce or sriracha to the tartar sauce, or incorporate minced jalapeños. You could also top the fish with sliced pickled jalapeños before adding the cheese, or use a spicy seasoning in your breading if making homemade fish filets.

→ Can I substitute the mayo in the tartar sauce?

Yes, you can use Greek yogurt for a tangier, lighter version. For a dairy-free option, avocado-based mayo works well. Each substitution will alter the flavor profile slightly but still create a delicious sauce.