Ultimate Fried Cod Sandwich Recipe – Crispy & Delicious! This Cod Sandwich is loaded with crispy, golden Fried Cod fillets, fresh vegetables toppings, and a zesty sauce, all tucked into a soft bun. It’s an easy, flavorful Fish Sandwich that’s perfect for hearty breakfast or lunch. Bring a taste of the coast to your kitchen with this simple and satisfying Fried Cod Fish recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Fried Cod Sandwich
- Crispy Perfection: The cod fillets are coated in a seasoned batter and fried to a crunchy, golden brown.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions make this recipe beginner-friendly.
- Customizable: Add your favorite toppings like spicy aioli, tangy pickles, or fresh coleslaw for a personalized twist.
- Perfect Anytime: Ideal for lunch, dinner, or even as a fun brunch option alongside other breakfast recipes.
Ingredients for Fried Cod Sandwich
For the Fried Cod:
- 2 pounds fresh cod fillets (skinless and boneless)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornmeal (for extra crunch)
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
- 1 cup buttermilk (or whole milk)
- 2-3 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Sandwich Assembly:
- 8 sandwich rolls or brioche buns (toasted)
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup sliced tomatoes
- 1 cup sliced pickles (dill or bread and butter)
- 1/2 cup tartar sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (for extra zest)
How to Make a Fried Cod Sandwich
1. Prepare the Fish:
- Rinse the cod fillets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Season with salt, pepper, and paprika for added flavor.
2. Set Up the Breading Station:
- In three separate shallow dishes, place the flour, buttermilk, and cornmeal mixture.
- Mix baking powder, paprika, and cayenne into the cornmeal for a flavorful crunch.
3. Bread the Cod Fillets:
- Dip each fillet in the flour, ensuring an even coat.
- Submerge in the buttermilk and allow any excess to drip off.
- Press the fillets into the cornmeal mixture for a thick, crispy coating.
4. Fry the Cod:
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the breaded fillets in batches for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Transfer the fried fillets to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
5. Assemble the Sandwich:
- Spread tartar sauce on the bottom half of each bun.
- Add a crispy fried cod fillet, followed by lettuce, tomatoes, and pickles.
- Drizzle with lemon juice and top with the other half of the bun.
Tips for the Best Fried Cod Sandwich
- Maintain the Right Temperature: Keep the oil consistently at 350°F for the crispiest results.
- Use Fresh Cod: High-quality, fresh cod ensures a tender, flaky texture.
- Enhance with Toppings: Try spicy aioli, tangy coleslaw, or pickled onions to elevate the flavor profile.
- Make it Healthier: Swap the fried cod for oven-baked fish and use whole wheat buns.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Fried Cod Sandwich with these tasty sides for a complete meal:
- Sweet Potato Fries: A sweet and savory contrast.
- Classic Coleslaw: Adds a refreshing crunch.
- Pickle Spears: A tangy, crunchy complement.
- Breakfast Twist: Serve with hash browns and scrambled eggs for a hearty brunch.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftover fried cod separately from the buns in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Wrap cooled fillets tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: For best results, reheat in an air fryer or oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Fried Cod: Add 1-2 tablespoons of hot sauce to the buttermilk for a kick.
- Vegan Option: Substitute cod with battered tofu or cauliflower.
- Fish Swap: Use haddock or tilapia for a different taste experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What makes a Fried Cod Sandwich crispy?
A well-seasoned batter and maintaining the oil temperature at 350°F ensures a crispy, golden crust.
2. Can I bake the cod instead of frying it?
Yes! Bake breaded cod fillets at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.
3. What other sauces work well with Fried Cod Sandwiches?
Spicy mayo, garlic aioli, or a lemon-dill yogurt sauce add delicious variety.
More Delicious Breakfast Recipes You Will Love
- Stuffed French Toast Recipe – An Irresistible Breakfast Dish
- Crispy Breakfast Potatoes Recipe
- Make-Ahead Breakfast Bowls – A High Protein Breakfast
- Greek Yogurt Banana Muffins: A High Protein Breakfast Recipe
Conclusion
The Fried Cod Sandwich is a satisfying and versatile dish that fits any occasion. With its crispy, golden coating and customizable toppings, it’s bound to become a favorite. Whether served for lunch, dinner, or even as part of your breakfast recipes lineup, this sandwich delivers a perfect blend of textures and flavors. Try it today and enjoy every crunchy, savory bite!

Ultimate Fried Cod Sandwich Recipe
Ingredients
For the Fried Cod:
- 2 pounds fresh cod fillets skinless and boneless
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornmeal for a crunchy coating
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika for a subtle kick
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for added heat
- 1 cup buttermilk or whole milk for marinating
- Vegetable oil for frying, approximately 2-3 cups
For the Sandwich Assembly:
- 8 large sandwich rolls or brioche buns
- 1 cup shredded lettuce for added crunch
- 1 cup sliced tomatoes for freshness
- 1 cup sliced pickles dill or bread and butter
- 1/2 cup tartar sauce store-bought or homemade
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice for a burst of zesty flavor
Instructions
Prepare the Fish:
- Rinse the cod fillets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Season with salt, pepper, and paprika for added flavor.
Set Up the Breading Station:
- In three separate shallow dishes, place the flour, buttermilk, and cornmeal mixture.
- Mix baking powder, paprika, and cayenne into the cornmeal for a flavorful crunch.
Bread the Cod Fillets:
- Dip each fillet in the flour, ensuring an even coat.
- Submerge in the buttermilk and allow any excess to drip off.
- Press the fillets into the cornmeal mixture for a thick, crispy coating.
Fry the Cod:
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the breaded fillets in batches for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Transfer the fried fillets to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Assemble the Sandwich:
- Spread tartar sauce on the bottom half of each bun.
- Add a crispy fried cod fillet, followed by lettuce, tomatoes, and pickles.
- Drizzle with lemon juice and top with the other half of the bun.