Crispy Fish Strips with Tartar Ranch

Posted on November 15, 2025

Crispy Fish Strips with Tartar Ranch

If you’re looking for a delightful dish that combines crunchiness and flavor, then Crispy Fish Strips with Tartar Ranch is your answer! This recipe brings together tender fish fillets coated in a crispy breadcrumb shell, served with a tangy tartar ranch sauce that perfectly complements the fish. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner, preparing a family meal, or simply treating yourself, these fish strips are an irresistible choice.

Imagine sinking your teeth into these golden-brown strips, the exterior giving way to flaky, juicy fish inside. Plus, the tartar ranch sauce adds a creamy, zesty touch that elevates every bite. Perfect for dipping, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons why Crispy Fish Strips with Tartar Ranch should be on your dinner table!

  • Quick and Easy: This recipe is straightforward and quick, making it perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings. With just a few simple steps, you can serve up a delicious dish in no time.
  • Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will be reaching for more! The crunchy texture and delectable taste make it appealing to everyone, ensuring that everyone enjoys their meal.
  • Healthier Option: Using white fish like cod or haddock provides a healthy source of protein. You can also bake the strips instead of frying them to make the dish even lighter.
  • Versatile Dish: Serve these fish strips as an appetizer, main course, or even in a sandwich! Pair them with your favorite sides, like coleslaw or fries, and you’re set for a delicious meal.
  • Delicious Dipping Sauce: The homemade tartar ranch sauce is a game-changer. It’s creamy, tangy, and brings a delightful freshness that pairs beautifully with the fish.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

This recipe isn’t just about making a tasty meal; it’s also about creating memories in the kitchen! Here’s why you should give Crispy Fish Strips with Tartar Ranch a try:

  • Impress Your Guests: Whether it’s a casual get-together or a more formal dinner, these fish strips are sure to impress. Their beautiful presentation and incredible flavor will make you the star of the evening.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: From family dinners to game day snacks, these fish strips fit right in. They are adaptable and can be served with varying sides depending on the occasion.
  • Quality Family Time: Cooking together can be a fun bonding experience. Get your family involved in the preparation process, from cutting the fish to mixing the dipping sauce.
  • Meal Prepping: You can prepare the fish strips ahead of time and store them in the freezer. Just pop them in the fryer when you’re ready to eat, making last-minute meals a breeze!
  • Comfort Food at Its Best: There’s something uniquely comforting about crispy fried food. This dish brings that warm, cozy feeling that makes you want to gather around the table and enjoy good food together.

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils

To create your Crispy Fish Strips with Tartar Ranch, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Ingredients for the Fish Strips:

  • 1 pound white fish fillets (such as cod or haddock)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • Vegetable oil (for frying)

Ingredients for the Tartar Ranch:

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 tablespoon chopped capers
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Necessary Utensils:

  • 3 Mixing bowls (for breading station)
  • Large skillet or frying pan
  • Cooking thermometer (optional, for oil temperature)
  • Paper towels (for draining excess oil)
  • Sharp knife (for slicing fish)
  • Whisk (for beating eggs)
  • Spatula (for flipping fish)

Detailed Recipe Steps

Now that you have all your ingredients and utensils ready, let’s dive into the preparation of your Crispy Fish Strips with Tartar Ranch!

Step 1: Prepare the Fish Strips

  1. Cut the Fish: Start by slicing the fish fillets into strips about 1 inch wide. This will ensure they cook evenly and are easy to dip.
  2. Set Up Your Breading Station: In three separate bowls, create your breading station. In the first bowl, combine flour with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. In the second bowl, beat the eggs. In the third bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs.
  3. Bread the Fish: Take each fish strip and first dredge it in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it into the beaten eggs, letting the excess drip off before coating it in panko breadcrumbs. Press gently to adhere the breadcrumbs. Repeat this process until all fish strips are coated.

Step 2: Fry the Fish

  1. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, pour in about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil and heat it over medium-high heat until shimmering. You can test if the oil is ready by dropping in a small piece of bread; it should sizzle.
  2. Fry the Fish: Carefully add the breaded fish strips to the hot oil in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Use a spatula to flip the strips gently.
  3. Drain: Once cooked, remove the fish strips from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. This will keep them crispy!

Step 3: Make the Tartar Ranch

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, parsley, capers, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined. This sauce adds a refreshing kick to your fish strips!
  2. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the tartar ranch and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more lemon juice for a tangier flavor or more herbs for freshness.

FAQ

What type of fish is best for making fish strips?

White fish fillets such as cod or haddock are excellent choices for making fish strips. They are flaky, tender, and have a mild flavor that pairs beautifully with the crispy coating.

Can I bake the fish strips instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake the fish strips for a healthier option. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C), place the breaded strips on a baking sheet, and bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.

How can I store leftover fish strips?

Store leftover fish strips in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, use an oven or air fryer to maintain their crispiness.

What can I serve with Crispy Fish Strips with Tartar Ranch?

These fish strips pair wonderfully with sides like coleslaw, fries, or a fresh green salad. You can also serve them in tacos or sandwiches for a fun twist!

Conclusion

Now that you have the complete guide to making Crispy Fish Strips with Tartar Ranch, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! This recipe is sure to delight anyone who tries it, with its crunchy exterior and flavorful fish. Don’t forget to share your experiences and variations in the comments below. If you enjoyed this recipe, please consider sharing it with your friends and family! Happy cooking!

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Crispy Fish Strips with Tartar Ranch

Crispy Fish Strips with Tartar Ranch

Enjoy these crispy fish strips served with a creamy tartar ranch dipping sauce, perfect for a delicious appetizer or main dish.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Mixing Bowls

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 pound White fish fillets (such as cod or haddock)
  • 1 cup All-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper
  • 2 Large eggs
  • 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
  • Vegetable oil (for frying) Enough for frying

Tartar Ranch Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup Sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon Chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 tablespoon Chopped capers
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Instructions

  • Slice the fish fillets into strips, about 1 inch wide.
  • In three separate bowls, place the flour mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper in one bowl; beat the eggs in the second bowl; and place the panko breadcrumbs in the third bowl.
  • Dredge each fish strip in the seasoned flour, shaking off the excess. Dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off, and then coat it in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere. Repeat with all fish strips.
  • In a large skillet, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  • Carefully add the breaded fish strips to the hot oil in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and drain on paper towels.
  • In a medium bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, parsley, capers, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Notes

For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breading mixture.
Keyword fish, fried, Tartar Sauce

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