
Prep time: 15 minutes | Cook time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4 burgers
Ingredients
For the Fish Burgers:
-
4 firm white fish fillets (Cod, Haddock, or Tilapia work best)
-
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
-
1 large egg, beaten
-
1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for an extra-crunchy coating)
-
1 teaspoon garlic powder
-
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
-
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
-
Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Zesty Tartar Sauce:
-
1/2 cup mayonnaise
-
2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish or finely diced dill pickles
-
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
-
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
-
1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped
-
Salt and pepper, to taste
To Assemble:
-
4 brioche burger buns, lightly toasted
-
2 cups shredded iceberg lettuce or butter lettuce
-
1 large ripe tomato, sliced
-
4 slices of cheddar or Swiss cheese (optional)
-
Red onion rings (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Tartar Sauce
-
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, pickle relish, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and fresh dill.
-
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
-
Cover and place in the refrigerator to let the flavors meld while you prepare the fish.
Step 2: Prepare the Breading Station
-
Set up three shallow bowls in a row for the dredging station:
-
Bowl 1: All-purpose flour seasoned with a pinch of salt and pepper.
-
Bowl 2: The beaten egg.
-
Bowl 3: Panko breadcrumbs mixed with the garlic powder and smoked paprika.
-
Step 3: Bread the Fish
-
Pat the fish fillets completely dry with paper towels and season both sides lightly with salt and pepper.
-
Dredge a fillet in the flour, shaking off any excess.
-
Dip it into the beaten egg, ensuring it’s fully coated.
-
Press it firmly into the panko breadcrumb mixture so the crumbs adhere thickly to all sides. Repeat for all fillets.
Step 4: Cook the Fish
-
Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot and shimmering.
-
Carefully place the breaded fish fillets into the hot oil. Fry for about 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (the fish should flake easily with a fork).
-
Transfer the cooked fillets to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. (Optional: Lay a slice of cheese on top of each hot fillet immediately after frying so it melts slightly).
Step 5: Assemble the Burgers
-
Lightly toast the cut sides of your brioche buns on a dry skillet or in the oven.
-
Generously spread the zesty tartar sauce on both the top and bottom halves of each bun.
-
Place a handful of shredded lettuce and tomato slices on the bottom bun.
-
Lay the crispy, hot fish fillet right on top of the tomatoes.
-
Add red onion rings if desired, pop the top bun on, and serve immediately with extra lemon wedges and fries!











