Description
This crispy baked fish sticks recipe uses flaky cod fillets coated in a seasoned breadcrumb mixture for a healthier alternative to fried fish sticks. Perfectly seasoned with paprika, Dijon mustard, and a double coating of panko and seasoned breadcrumbs, these fish sticks are oven-baked to golden perfection and served with tangy tartar sauce for dipping.
Ingredients
Scale
Fish and Seasoning
- 1 pound cod fillets, cut into 1-inch strips
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Coating
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon sweet or smoked paprika
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- Olive oil cooking spray
Serving
- Tartar sauce for serving (store bought or homemade)
Instructions
- Prepare the Fish: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and cut them into 1-inchwide strips. Season the fish strips evenly with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance their natural flavor.
- Set up Breading Stations: In three shallow dishes, place the flour mixed with paprika in the first dish, the beaten eggs combined with Dijon mustard in the second, and a mixture of panko breadcrumbs and seasoned breadcrumbs in the third. This triple coating ensures extra crunch and flavor.
- Coat the Fish Sticks: Dredge each fish strip first in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip it in the egg and mustard mixture, making sure the fish is well coated. Finally, roll the fish strips in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere a generous coating of crumbs.
- Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Arrange the coated fish sticks on the baking sheet in a single layer without crowding. Lightly spray the fish sticks with olive oil cooking spray to promote browning and crispiness.
- Bake the Fish Sticks: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, turning the fish sticks halfway through the cooking time to ensure even crispiness and golden color on all sides.
- Serve: Remove the fish sticks from the oven and let them cool for a minute or two. Serve hot with tartar sauce on the side for dipping, making it a perfect snack or main dish for both kids and adults.
Notes
- For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of garlic powder to the flour mixture.
- If you prefer gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
- Use fresh cod or any firm white fish like haddock or pollock.
- To make tartar sauce at home, mix mayonnaise with chopped pickles, capers, lemon juice, and fresh dill.
- Ensure not to overcrowd the baking sheet to maintain crispiness.
Keywords: fish sticks, baked fish sticks, cod fish sticks, crispy fish sticks, healthy fish sticks, homemade fish sticks, kid-friendly dinner