Air Fryer Fish Sandwich

This Air Fryer Fish Sandwich is a lighter take on the fast-food favorite—crispy on the outside, tender and flaky on the inside, and packed between a soft brioche bun with tartar sauce, melted cheese, and crisp lettuce. Thanks to the air fryer, you get the satisfying crunch of fried fish without the mess or excess oil. It’s a quick and delicious dinner the whole family will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This fish sandwich delivers everything you crave—flavorful seasoning, crunchy coating, and creamy tartar sauce—while using the air fryer to keep things healthier and easier. The buttermilk marinade keeps the fish moist and tender, while the double-dredging method creates a crispy coating that rivals deep-fried versions. It’s ideal for a quick weeknight meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Fish:

• 4 cod fillets (or flounder)

• 1 cup buttermilk

• ¾ cup all-purpose flour

• ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs

• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning

• ½ teaspoon paprika

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon black pepper

• Cooking spray

For the Tartar Sauce:

• ½ cup mayonnaise

• ¼ cup sweet relish

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon salt

For the Sandwiches:

• 4 brioche buns

• 1 cup iceberg lettuce, shredded

• 4 slices cheddar cheese (or American cheese)

Directions

Make the Tartar Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, relish, garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.

2. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.

Marinate the Fish

3. Place cod fillets in a zip-top bag or bowl. Pour in the buttermilk, ensuring the fish is fully coated.

4. Marinate for 20–30 minutes in the fridge.

Prepare the Breading

5. In a shallow bowl, combine flour, panko breadcrumbs, Old Bay seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Air Fry the Fish

6. Preheat air fryer to 400°F and spray the basket generously with cooking spray.

7. Remove fish from marinade. Dredge each fillet in the flour mixture, pressing firmly to adhere.

8. Repeat the coating process a second time for extra crunch.

9. Place the coated fillets in the air fryer basket. Spray the tops with cooking spray until the coating is fully saturated.

10. Cook for 12–14 minutes, flipping halfway through and re-spraying the tops.

11. In the last minute of cooking, sprinkle with coarse salt and place a slice of cheese on each fillet to melt.

Assemble the Sandwiches

12. Add shredded lettuce to the bottom half of each brioche bun.

13. Top with a crispy fish fillet and a generous spoonful of tartar sauce.

14. Add the top bun and serve warm with fries or chips.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 sandwiches.
Prep Time: 7 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Chill Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 39 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add cayenne pepper to the flour mixture or hot sauce to the tartar sauce.

• Lighter Option: Use plain Greek yogurt instead of mayo in the tartar sauce.

• Fish Tacos Twist: Skip the buns and serve the fillets in tortillas with cabbage and salsa.

• No Buttermilk? Use regular milk with a splash of lemon juice or vinegar as a substitute.

• Oven Method: Bake breaded fillets on a wire rack at 425°F for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Storage/Reheating

Store: Refrigerate leftover fish fillets (unassembled) in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Reheat: Air fry at 375°F for 3–5 minutes or bake in a 400°F oven until crispy.
Freeze: Breaded but uncooked fillets can be frozen on a sheet pan, then stored in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.

FAQs

Can I use frozen fish fillets?

Yes, just thaw them completely and pat dry before marinating.

What’s the best fish for air fryer sandwiches?

Cod, flounder, haddock, or tilapia work well for their mild flavor and flaky texture.

Can I skip the second breading?

You can, but the double coat gives a crispier texture and better coverage.

Do I need to flip the fish in the air fryer?

Yes, flipping ensures even browning and crispiness on both sides.

How do I know when the fish is done?

The fish should be golden brown, crispy, and flake easily with a fork. Internal temp should reach 145°F.

Can I make these sandwiches ahead of time?

You can prep the components ahead, but assemble just before serving to keep the bread from getting soggy.

What type of bun is best?

Brioche buns are soft and buttery, perfect for balancing the crispy fish. Potato rolls are also a great option.

Is there a gluten-free version?

Yes, use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs, and serve on a gluten-free bun.

Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?

Yes, but panko gives a crunchier texture. Regular breadcrumbs will still work.

Can I pan-fry instead?

Yes, heat oil in a skillet to 350°F and fry fish for 3–4 minutes per side until golden.

Conclusion

This Air Fryer Fish Sandwich is a fresh and flavorful twist on the classic fast-food favorite—made lighter without sacrificing that irresistible crunch. Easy to make, perfectly seasoned, and topped with creamy homemade tartar sauce, it’s a meal that’s sure to please any crowd. Serve it up with fries or chips, and enjoy comfort food at its finest—no deep fryer required.

Print