Go Back
–+ servings
Crispy Baked Fish Sticks with Tartar Sauce

Crispy Baked Fish Sticks with Tartar Sauce for Guilt-Free Crunch

Enjoy Crispy Baked Fish Sticks with Tartar Sauce, a healthier twist on a classic favorite that’s customizable for various diets.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 sticks
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 220
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Fish Sticks
  • 1 pound Cod Fillets (or Haddock) Substitute with salmon or firm white fish, or tofu for plant-based option.
  • 1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour Can be swapped with rice flour for gluten-free.
  • 2 large Eggs Replace with a flax egg for vegan alternative.
  • 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs Use gluten-free panko or crushed cornflakes for more crunch.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Plain paprika works as an alternative.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh garlic is a great alternative.
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest Substitute with fresh lemon juice if zest is unavailable.
  • to taste Salt and Pepper Adjust according to preferences.
For the Tartar Sauce
  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise Substitute with vegan mayo for dairy-free.
  • 1/4 cup Dill Pickles Cornichons can be used as an alternative.
  • 1 tablespoon Capers Can be omitted for a simpler sauce.
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Lemon Juice Vinegar can be used as a substitute.
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Dill Dried dill can be used if fresh isn't available.

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Wire rack
  • Shallow Bowls
  • Mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by patting your cod fillets dry with paper towels. Season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and lemon zest. Allow to rest for 5 minutes.
  2. Create a breading station with three shallow bowls: flour in the first, beaten eggs in the second, and panko mixture in the third.
  3. Dredge each fish stick in flour, dip in beaten egg, then coat with panko mixture. Repeat for all pieces.
  4. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Arrange fish sticks on a wire rack over a baking sheet and spray lightly with oil. Bake for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway.
  5. Whisk together mayonnaise, dill pickles, capers, fresh lemon juice, and fresh dill in a mixing bowl for tartar sauce. Chill in the refrigerator.
  6. Once the fish sticks are golden brown, remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes. Serve with tartar sauce and lemon wedges.

Nutrition

Serving: 1stickCalories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 20gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 1gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 8mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Pat fish dry before seasoning for crispiness. Use a wire rack to promote even cooking. Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!