Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These homemade fish sticks are a fun and flavorful twist on a classic favorite. With crispy, golden-crusted exteriors and tender, flaky fish on the inside, these fish sticks are sure to impress. The coating, made from crushed corn flakes and seasoned with paprika, lemon-pepper, and a touch of cayenne, gives them an irresistible crunch and just the right amount of spice. Perfect for both kids and adults, these fish sticks are a healthier alternative to store-bought versions. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce for a quick and satisfying meal or snack!

Ingredients

• 1 cup crushed corn flakes
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon lemon-pepper seasoning
• ½-¾ teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 pound cod fillets, cut into 1-inch strips

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

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
2. In a shallow bowl, combine the crushed corn flakes, paprika, lemon-pepper seasoning, kosher salt, and cayenne pepper.
3. In another shallow bowl, place the all-purpose flour. In a third shallow bowl, beat the eggs.
4. Dredge each cod strip first in the flour, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it in the corn flake mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating.
5. Arrange the coated fish sticks in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, flipping the fish sticks halfway through, until they are golden brown and the fish is cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 145°F).
7. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce such as tartar sauce, ketchup, or a squeeze of lemon.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation time: 10 minutes
• Cooking time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Different Fish: While cod is a great option, you can substitute it with other white fish like haddock, tilapia, or pollock.
• Panko Coating: For an even crispier texture, you can substitute the corn flakes with panko breadcrumbs.
• Seasoning Variations: Experiment with different seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or dried herbs like thyme or oregano for added flavor.
• Baked or Fried: These fish sticks are baked, but if you prefer a fried version, heat oil in a skillet and fry the coated fish sticks until golden and crispy on both sides.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover fish sticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked fish sticks for later use. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake directly from frozen at 400°F for 15-20 minutes.
• Reheating: Reheat leftover fish sticks in the oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of fish for these sticks?

Yes! While cod is commonly used, other white fish like haddock, tilapia, or pollock work well too.

How can I make the fish sticks spicier?

To add extra heat, you can increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add some chili powder to the cornflake coating.

Can I fry these fish sticks instead of baking them?

Yes, you can fry them! Heat about 1-2 inches of oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat and cook the fish sticks until golden and crispy on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.

How do I know when the fish is done cooking?

Fish sticks are done when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside, and the internal temperature reaches 145°F. The fish should also flake easily with a fork.

Can I make these fish sticks ahead of time?

You can prep the fish sticks and freeze them before baking. When ready to cook, bake them from frozen for a quick meal.

Can I use store-bought breadcrumbs instead of corn flakes?

Yes, you can swap the crushed corn flakes for breadcrumbs. Panko breadcrumbs will give you a similar crunch.

Are these fish sticks gluten-free?

To make these fish sticks gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free corn flakes or breadcrumbs.

Can I make the fish sticks without eggs?

Yes, you can make these without eggs by using a mixture of milk and flour or a vegan egg replacement like aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas).

How do I store leftover fish sticks?

Store leftover fish sticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to restore their crispiness.

What is the best way to serve fish sticks?

Fish sticks are delicious on their own or served with dipping sauces like tartar sauce, ketchup, or a squeeze of lemon. You can also serve them with a side of fries, a salad, or over a bed of rice.

Conclusion

These homemade fish sticks are a quick, easy, and delicious meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual snack. With a crunchy, flavorful coating and tender fish inside, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone. Whether served with your favorite dipping sauce or alongside a tasty side dish, these fish sticks offer a healthier and tastier alternative to the store-bought variety. Plus, they’re simple enough to make in just 30 minutes, making them a great go-to meal!

Print