Master the McDonald’s Magic: The Ultimate Copycat Filet-O-Fish Sandwich & Tartar Sauce Recipe

Do you ever find yourself daydreaming about that iconic McDonald’s Filet-O-Fish sandwich? The perfectly steamed bun, the crispy, piping hot fish filet, that irresistible slice of melty American cheese, and of course, the creamy, tangy tartar sauce that ties it all together? We certainly do! While fast food is an occasional treat for many, some cravings are simply undeniable. And when that particular craving hits, especially during Lent, the Filet-O-Fish is often at the top of the list for its unique and comforting flavor profile. But what if you could recreate that exact experience, complete with the best tartar sauce ever, right in your own kitchen? Get ready to skip the drive-thru and impress your family and friends by making your very own Copycat McDonald’s Filet ‘o Fish Sandwich and Tartar Sauce at home!

For many, the Filet-O-Fish isn’t just a sandwich; it’s a seasonal tradition, especially during the Lenten period when many seek non-meat options. It holds a special place in the hearts of fast-food enthusiasts, and it’s a personal favorite for my husband and youngest daughter. There’s something truly magical about its simplicity and the distinct combination of textures and flavors. While we generally limit our fast food intake, some cravings are simply too strong to ignore. This copycat recipe allows you to indulge guilt-free, knowing exactly what goes into your meal and enjoying the satisfaction of a homemade classic.

Let’s be honest: a significant part of the Filet-O-Fish’s allure lies squarely with its legendary tartar sauce. It’s not just any tartar sauce; McDonald’s has perfected a sweet and tangy blend that perfectly complements the fried fish. Many have tried, but few have truly replicated its unique taste – until now!

The secret to this fantastic copycat recipe actually came from my mom. A few years back, she casually mentioned she’d been using a copycat McDonald’s tartar sauce recipe for years. My immediate reaction was, “Excuse me, Mother?! How am I just hearing about this NOW?!” Naturally, I had her text it to me without delay. From that moment, I was on a mission to replicate the entire sandwich experience at home, and I’m thrilled to share my findings with you.

Cracking the Code: McDonald’s Copycat Tartar Sauce Recipe

Whenever the words “tartar sauce” are uttered, my mind immediately jumps to McDonald’s. There’s a reason it’s so memorable and perfectly suited to their fish sandwich. It possesses a distinctive tangy sweetness and a delightful texture that sets it apart from many other versions. Many store-bought tartar sauces are either too sour, too bland, or lack that specific je ne sais quoi that makes McDonald’s version so craveable.

For those unfamiliar, what exactly is tartar sauce? At its core, tartar sauce is a creamy condiment traditionally served with seafood, most notably fried fish. Its foundation is typically mayonnaise, enhanced with finely chopped pickles or relish, capers, and often fresh herbs like dill or parsley. The name “tartar” itself originates from the French “sauce tartare,” referring to its characteristically tart flavor. What makes McDonald’s version stand out is its balance: not too acidic, not too sweet, and with just the right amount of finely diced pickle relish and onion to provide a subtle crunch without overpowering the smooth mayonnaise base. This homemade recipe captures that elusive balance beautifully, making it truly the best tartar sauce to pair with your fish sandwich.

If you’re a fan of fish sandwiches in general and enjoy exploring different flavors, you might also love my Salmon Burger with BLT Slaw. It offers a different, yet equally delicious, take on a seafood burger.

Deconstructing the Classic: What’s in a McDonald’s Filet ‘O Fish Sandwich?

The magic of the Filet-O-Fish is in its simplicity, relying on a few key ingredients executed perfectly. Beyond the incredible tartar sauce, the other crucial elements are the fish, the cheese, and the uniquely steamed bun. It’s the combination of these simple ingredients that creates such an unforgettable experience. Below, we’ll break down each component you’ll need to gather to create this beloved sandwich at home. For a detailed, printable recipe card, make sure to scroll to the bottom of this article.

• Breaded Fish Patties: The foundation of our sandwich! While McDonald’s uses Alaskan Pollock, any good quality breaded white fish filet will work perfectly. I typically opt for Van de Kamp’s Breaded Fish for Sandwiches because their size and texture closely mimic the original, providing that ideal crispy exterior and flaky interior. However, feel free to use your preferred brand or even make your own breaded fish if you’re feeling ambitious!
• Hamburger Buns – Steamed: This is a non-negotiable step to achieving authenticity. The signature softness of the Filet-O-Fish bun comes from steaming. A perfectly steamed bun isn’t just soft; it’s slightly moist, comforting, and collapses beautifully around the fish and cheese, creating that melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s central to the McDonald’s version. Don’t skip this step!
• American Cheese Slices: It simply isn’t a McDonald’s Fish Sandwich without that unmistakable slice of American cheese. Its low melting point ensures it becomes gloriously gooey and melty over the hot fish, adding a creamy, slightly salty element that enhances the overall flavor and texture. Processed American cheese is key here for that specific melt and flavor profile.

• McDonald’s Copycat Tartar Sauce: As previously emphasized, this is, in my opinion, the BEST part of the sandwich and the true secret weapon. To craft this exquisite condiment, you’ll need a precise blend of ingredients that work together to create that signature sweet and tangy flavor. Our recipe calls for:
  • Vlasic Dill Pickle Relish: Provides the essential tangy, briny crunch.
  • Minced Capers: Adds a unique salty, floral note and another layer of texture.
  • Dried Minced Onion: Delivers a subtle onion flavor without the harshness of fresh onion.
  • Milk: Helps to thin the sauce slightly and contribute to its creamy consistency.
  • Dried Parsley Flakes: For a hint of freshness and classic tartar sauce appearance.
  • Lemon Juice: Boosts the tartness and brightens all the flavors.
  • Granulated Sugar: Crucial for balancing the acidity and achieving that signature McDonald’s sweetness.
  • Mayonnaise: The creamy base that binds all these wonderful flavors together.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make McDonald’s Filet ‘o Fish and Tartar Sauce at Home

You’ll be amazed at how simple it is to bring this iconic sandwich to life in your own kitchen! The process is straightforward, and the results are incredibly rewarding.

1. Prepare the Tartar Sauce: This is your first and most important step. In a medium bowl, combine all the ingredients for the tartar sauce: mayonnaise, Vlasic dill pickle relish, minced capers, dried minced onion, milk, dried parsley flakes, lemon juice, and granulated sugar. Whisk them together until thoroughly combined and smooth. Transfer the sauce to an airtight container, cover it, and place it in the refrigerator for at least one hour. This chilling time is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring that signature tangy-sweet taste truly develops. Ideally, make it a few hours ahead, or even the day before, for the best results.

2. Cook the Fish Patties: Preheat your oven to the temperature specified on your breaded fish patty package instructions. Arrange the fish patties in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for the recommended time, usually around 15-20 minutes, until they are golden brown and crispy. Once the fish is cooked through and perfectly crispy, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Immediately place one slice of American cheese on top of each hot fish patty. Return the baking sheet to the oven for just one to two minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully melted and gooey.

3. Steam the Buns: While your cheese is melting, prepare your hamburger buns. This step is essential for achieving that signature McDonald’s softness. Place your hamburger buns into a plastic bag – a clean grocery bag or a large Ziploc will work. Add a lightly damp paper towel to the bag (don’t seal the bag tightly, just loosely close it to trap the steam). Microwave for approximately 30 seconds. The steam generated inside the bag will soften the buns to perfection, making them warm and pillowy, just like the original.

4. Assemble and Enjoy: Now for the best part – assembly! Carefully place the cheesy fish patty on the bottom half of a freshly steamed bun. Next, spoon a generous amount of your homemade McDonald’s Tartar Sauce over the fish. Don’t be shy; the sauce is a star! Finally, top with the other half of the steamed bun. Serve immediately and savor every delicious, nostalgic bite of your homemade Filet ‘o Fish. Pair it with some crispy fries for the ultimate fast-food at-home experience!

Are You “Lovin’ It?” Pin It for Later!

Once you’ve tasted the incredible satisfaction of making your own Filet-O-Fish at home, you’ll want to ensure you can revisit this recipe time and time again. Don’t let this amazing copycat recipe get lost in your browser tabs! Pin it to your favorite Pinterest board before you go, so it’s always handy whenever that McDonald’s craving strikes.

Beyond the Filet-O-Fish: Discover More Restaurant Copycat Recipes to Love

So, you’ve mastered the McDonald’s Fish Sandwich and its iconic tartar sauce, and now you’re probably wondering if I have other secret restaurant copycat recipes up my sleeve. The answer is a resounding YES! I absolutely love recreating beloved restaurant dishes at home, and I’m thrilled to share a selection of my top fast-food copycat favorites with you today. You can explore all my restaurant copycat recipes here, but let’s whet your appetite with a few highlights.

My collection isn’t limited to just fast-food gems. I’ve also cracked the code on popular dishes from family-favorite establishments like Olive Garden, Red Lobster, Texas Roadhouse, P.F. Chang’s, Starbucks, Cracker Barrel, and many more! There’s a whole world of culinary adventure waiting for you to recreate right in your own kitchen, offering the taste you love without leaving home.

Our Favorite Fast Food Copycat Recipes:

• McDonald’s Big Mac Recipe (pictured above)
• Wendy’s Homemade Frosty’s
• KFC Coleslaw Recipe
• Taco Bell Mexican Pizza
• Baskin Robbins Daiquiri Ice Recipe
• Wendy’s Taco Salad
• Copy Cat Sonic Cherry-Limeade
• Egg McMuffin

I think we’ve talked enough about it! It’s time to roll up our sleeves and get to the detailed recipe for the McDonald’s Filet ‘o Fish Sandwich and its famous Tartar Sauce. Get ready to experience your favorite fish sandwich like never before – fresh, homemade, and utterly delicious!

This recipe was originally posted on January 20, 2016. It was updated on February 28, 2025, to enhance the content, improve readability, and upgrade the overall reader experience with additional tips and details.