Filet-O-Fish Sliders

This homemade version of the iconic Filet-O-Fish transformed into adorable slider form has become my go-to for casual entertaining. These mini fish burgers deliver all the nostalgia of the fast-food classic but with the satisfaction of being made in your own kitchen.

I first made these sliders for a Friday game night, and they disappeared faster than any other food I've served. The combination of that crispy fish with melty cheese and tangy sauce creates instant happiness around the table.

Ingredients

• Store bought breaded fish fillets: provide convenience while delivering great flavor and texture
• Slider buns: create the perfect hand-held size that makes these irresistible
• American cheese slices: melt beautifully and give that authentic experience
• Mayonnaise: forms the creamy base of the homemade tartar sauce
• Sweet relish: adds tanginess and subtle crunch to balance the richness
• Dried dill: brings herbaceous notes that elevate the sauce beyond basic
• Lemon juice: brightens the entire sauce with essential acidity
• Butter: adds a touch of richness to the toasted buns

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350°F and line two sheet pans with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. This temperature creates perfectly crisp fish without drying it out.

Bake the Fish:

Place your breaded fish fillets on one of the prepared baking sheets and cook according to the package directions. For the best texture look for fish that is golden brown on the outside but still moist inside.

Make the Tartar Sauce:

While the fish cooks combine mayonnaise, relish, lemon juice, and dill in a small bowl, stirring until evenly incorporated. Refrigerate the sauce to allow flavors to meld while everything else cooks.

Warm the Buns:

Place slider buns on the second baking sheet, brushing the tops with melted butter for flavor and color. Warm them in the oven for just 2 to 3 minutes until they become slightly toasty and aromatic.

Slice the Buns:

Remove warmed buns from the oven and carefully slice through the center horizontally, keeping the tops and bottoms connected. Set the tops aside temporarily for assembly.

Add Cheese:

Place cheese slices directly onto the bottom buns so the residual heat helps it start melting which creates that perfect creamy texture.

Layer the Fish:

Position the hot crispy fish fillets on top of the cheese layer, ensuring each slider gets an appropriate amount of fish for balanced bites.

Apply Tartar Sauce:

Spread a generous amount of your homemade tartar sauce evenly over each piece of fish, giving each slider that signature tangy creaminess.

Complete Assembly:

Return the top buns to their rightful place atop the sauce-covered fish, pressing down gently to bring all components together.

Serve Immediately:

Slice between the buns if they are connected and serve while still warm for the best flavor and texture experience.

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My family particularly loves the contrast between the crunchy fish coating and the soft buns. I remember the first time I made these during Lent one year as I was searching for creative fish dishes. My picky nephew who normally refuses seafood ate three in one sitting and now requests them regularly.

Make Ahead Options

The tartar sauce can be prepared up to three days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This actually improves the flavor as ingredients have time to meld together creating a more cohesive sauce. When ready to serve simply remove from the refrigerator about 15 minutes before assembly to take the chill off.

Substitution Ideas

For a healthier version, use homemade baked fish fillets instead of store bought frozen ones. Simply coat white fish like cod or tilapia in breadcrumbs and bake until crispy. Whole wheat slider buns can replace traditional ones for added fiber and nutrients. Greek yogurt can substitute for some or all of the mayonnaise in the tartar sauce for a lighter option with added protein.

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Serving Suggestions

These sliders pair wonderfully with crispy oven baked fries or sweet potato wedges. For a lighter option, serve alongside a simple coleslaw or green salad with vinaigrette dressing. During warmer months, they make perfect picnic food when wrapped individually in parchment paper. For a complete fish sandwich experience, add thinly sliced lettuce or pickle chips before serving.

The History Behind the Bite

The original Filet O Fish sandwich was created in 1962 by a McDonald's franchise owner in Cincinnati who noticed declining Friday sales in his predominantly Catholic neighborhood during Lent. The slider version maintains all the beloved elements of the classic burger while making it perfect for sharing and entertaining. This miniaturized version has become increasingly popular at casual gatherings and game day spreads across America, demonstrating how beloved this flavor combination truly is.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use homemade fish filets for this dish?

Yes, you can absolutely use homemade fish filets. Just make sure they're breaded and cooked to a crispy texture for the best sliders.

→ What can I use instead of tartar sauce?

If you don't have tartar sauce, you can use mayonnaise with a squeeze of lemon juice or even a garlic aioli for a different flavor.

→ Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

It's best to assemble and serve the sliders fresh to maintain the crispy texture of the fish and the warmth of the buns, but you can prepare the fish and tartar sauce ahead of time to save effort.

→ What cheese works best for these sliders?

American cheese is classic for its mild and melty texture, but you can also use cheddar, Swiss, or even pepper jack for a slightly different flavor profile.

→ Are there any bun alternatives?

Yes, you can use dinner rolls, brioche buns, or even small ciabatta rolls as an alternative to standard slider buns.