Best Walleye Sandwich

Ingredients Needed Walleye Fish Sandwich

• Walleye fillets – Walleye has a mild, sweet flavor and flaky texture, making it one of the best fish for frying. Cod, haddock, or pollock also work well.
• All-purpose flour – Forms the base of the beer batter and creates a light, crispy coating.
• Baking powder – Gives the batter extra lift, creating a lighter, airier crust.
• Paprika – Adds a subtle smoky flavor and beautiful golden color.
• Garlic powder – Brings savory flavor to the batter without overpowering the delicate fish.
• Salt – Enhances the flavor of both the fish and the crispy coating.
• Black pepper – Adds a mild touch of warmth and seasoning.
• Cold beer – The carbonation creates a light, crisp batter while helping the coating puff up as it fries. Any light lager or pilsner works well.
• Extra flour – Lightly coating the fish before dipping it in the batter helps the coating stick better.
• Vegetable or canola oil – A neutral oil with a high smoke point that's perfect for deep frying.
• Plain Greek yogurt – A creamy, protein-rich alternative to mayonnaise that gives the tartar sauce a fresh, tangy flavor.
• Chopped dill pickles or pickle relish – Adds crunch and the classic tangy flavor tartar sauce is known for.
• Fresh lemon juice – Brightens the sauce and complements the fried fish.
• Dried dill – Adds fresh herb flavor that pairs perfectly with seafood.
• Garlic powder – Provides subtle savory depth.
• Onion powder – Balances the flavors with mild sweetness.
• Salt and black pepper – Season the sauce to taste.

For the Sandwiches

• Brioche buns – Soft, buttery buns that toast beautifully and hold up well to crispy fried fish.
• American cheese – Melts quickly and adds creamy richness that pairs perfectly with the crispy fish.
• Leaf lettuce – Adds freshness and a satisfying crunch.
• Dill pickle slices – Optional, but they provide a bright, tangy contrast to the rich fish and creamy tartar sauce.

How to Make Walleye Fish Sandwich

Step 1: Make the Tartar Sauce - In a small bowl, stir together the Greek yogurt, pickles, lemon juice, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Refrigerate while you prepare the fish.

Step 2: Heat the Oil - Heat 2–3 inches of oil in a heavy pot or Dutch oven to 350°F.

Step 3: Prepare the Batter - In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Slowly pour in the cold beer, whisking until the batter reaches a smooth consistency similar to pancake batter.

Step 4: Fry the Fish - Pat the fish dry with paper towels.

Lightly coat each fillet in flour, then dip into the beer batter, allowing the excess to drip off.

Carefully place the fish into the hot oil and fry for 4–6 minutes per side, or until deep golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork.

Transfer to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate.

Step 5: Toast the Buns - Place the brioche buns in an air fryer at 350°F for 2–3 minutes, until lightly toasted.

Step 6: Assemble - Spread Greek yogurt tartar sauce on the bottom bun.

Top with lettuce, the crispy fish, a slice of American cheese, and pickle slices if using.

Finish with the top bun and serve immediately.

How to Store

To reheat the fish, place it in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–5 minutes, or until hot and crispy. You can also reheat it in a 375°F oven for about 8–10 minutes. Avoid microwaving the fish, as it can make the crispy coating soggy.

What to Serve with Fish Sandwiches

• Make sure to have a lot of easy homemade 3 Ingredient Tartar Sauce!
• Air Fryer Frozen French Fries
• Air Fryer Alexia Sweet Potato Puffs
• Coleslaw
• Potato salad
• Fresh fruit
• Dill pickle spears

This recipe would pair beautifully with the photo you shared. The air-fryer toasted brioche bun and homemade Greek yogurt tartar sauce are nice touches that make it feel both homemade and a little more wholesome than a typical fried fish sandwich.