Craving a delicious and healthier twist on a classic favorite? Look no further than these Crispy Baked Fish Sticks! Perfectly golden and irresistibly crunchy, these homemade fish sticks are not only a hit with kids but also a delightful treat for adults. With just a handful of simple ingredients and a quick prep time, you can whip up a batch in no time. Say goodbye to frozen fish sticks and hello to a fresh, flavorful dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. Ready to dive into this mouthwatering recipe? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb white fish fillets, cut into strips
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures that your fish sticks will cook evenly and become crispy.
- Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it with cooking spray. This will prevent the fish sticks from sticking and make cleanup easier.
- In a shallow dish, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
- In another shallow bowl, beat the two eggs until well combined. This will be used to help the breadcrumbs adhere to the fish.
- In a third shallow dish, place the breadcrumbs. You can use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs based on your preference.
- Take a strip of fish and first coat it in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. This step helps the egg to stick better.
- Next, dip the floured fish strip into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is fully coated.
- Finally, roll the egg-coated fish strip in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure an even coating. Repeat this process for all fish strips.
- Once all the fish sticks are coated, place them on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, making sure they are not touching each other. This allows for even cooking and crispiness.
- Bake the fish sticks in the preheated oven for about 12 to 15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Flip them halfway through baking for even crispiness.
- Once cooked, remove the fish sticks from the oven and let them cool for a minute. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as tartar sauce or ketchup.
Tips
- Choose the Right Fish: Opt for mild white fish like cod, haddock, or tilapia for the best flavor and texture. Fresh fish fillets work wonders, but frozen ones can be a convenient alternative—just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.
- Customize the Coating: Feel free to get creative with your breadcrumbs! Try using panko for an extra crunch or add some grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb mixture for a cheesy twist.
- Spice It Up: Don’t be afraid to adjust the spices to your liking. A pinch of cayenne pepper or some Italian herbs can elevate the flavor profile and add a little kick.
- Even Cooking: To achieve perfectly crispy fish sticks, ensure they are spaced apart on the baking sheet. This allows hot air to circulate around each piece, resulting in even cooking and browning.
- Serve with Style: Pair your crispy fish sticks with a variety of dipping sauces such as homemade tartar sauce, zesty remoulade, or a tangy lemon aioli to take your meal to the next level.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 120mg
