Hardee’s Cod Fish Sandwich Recipe — Copycat Hardees Fish Sandwich

Hardee’s Fish Sandwich is a simple, satisfying sandwich made with a breaded pollock fillet, creamy tartar sauce, and lettuce on a sesame seed bun. It isn’t necessarily the top fast-food fish sandwich out there, but at around $3.59 it’s a budget-friendly option. Hardee’s often runs promotions such as 2 for $5, making it an even better value. Read on for a concise review, ingredient list, and a straightforward copycat method to make it at home.

🐟 Hardee’s Fish Sandwich

Does Hardee’s sell a fish sandwich? Yes. Hardee’s (branded as Carl’s Jr. in some regions) typically offers a breaded fish sandwich seasonally, often during Lent, and availability varies by location.

My experience in Florida showed that not every Hardee’s carries the item at all times, but some locations— including those attached to convenience stores or gas stations—do offer a panko-breaded fish sandwich.

Ingredients you’ll need for a copycat Hardee’s-style sandwich:

• Panko-breaded pollock fillets (or cod, haddock, or your preferred breaded fish)
• Tartar sauce
• Sesame seed hamburger buns, toasted
• Leaf or shredded lettuce

You can replicate the Hardee’s version with pollock as they do, or substitute panko-breaded cod or haddock. Beer-battered fillets also work if you prefer a different texture. While Hardee’s lists shredded lettuce, some locations serve a single leaf of green leaf lettuce—either is fine.

For a fuller meal, pair the sandwich with fries for a classic fish-and-chips-style combo.

To make a simple copycat Hardee’s fish sandwich:

• Cook the breaded fish according to the package instructions until golden and cooked through.
• Toast the buns cut-side up in an oven or air fryer.
• Spread tartar sauce on both the top and bottom buns (Hardee’s uses a light-to-moderate amount), add lettuce, place the fish on the bun, and close the sandwich.

You can customize by omitting lettuce or tartar sauce. At the restaurant you can often add tomato, American cheese, or bacon for an extra charge.

Taste is subjective, so it’s worth trying for yourself—especially at this price point, which can be roughly $2 less than comparable options in some regions. It’s also convenient that Hardee’s often makes this sandwich available seasonally.

Top photo: Hardee’s panko-breaded fish sandwich. Bottom photo: copycat Hardee’s fish sandwich.

FAQ

How much is Hardee’s fish sandwich?

In 2024, Hardee’s fish sandwich price was listed around $3.59, though prices vary by location. Carl’s Jr. pricing may differ in areas where the chains operate under that name.

How many calories are in a Hardee’s fish sandwich?

A cached Hardee’s menu listed approximately 540 calories for their fish sandwich. Nutrition data on the official site may change or be unavailable, so consider this an estimate.

What kind of fish is used?

The sandwich sampled here used a panko-crusted pollock fillet shaped like a triangle. Hardee’s has also offered beer-battered cod in other variations.

Who else sells a fish sandwich?

McDonald’s (Filet-O-Fish) and chains like Burger King, Wendy’s, Arby’s, Popeyes, Chick-fil-A, and Whataburger all offer fish sandwiches at times. Like Hardee’s, some versions are seasonal.

More Fast Food Reviews

Other copycat recipes and fast-food reviews you may enjoy:

• KFC Zinger Burger
• Baconator Burger
• Denny’s Pancake Recipe
• Taco Bell Beefy 5-Layer Burrito
• Spicy Southwest Salad (Chick-fil-A copycat)
• Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad (copycat)

Hardee’s Fish Sandwich (Copycat)