Fish Sticks with Sweet Potato Fries

Introduction

Few meals strike the balance between nostalgic comfort and feel-good eating like Fish Sticks with Sweet Potato Fries. This dish instantly takes me back to childhood dinners, but with a grown-up twist—crispy, golden fish sticks made from real fish fillets and paired with oven-roasted sweet potato fries that are naturally sweet and delightfully crisp. It’s a winning combo that’s easy to make, loved by kids and adults alike, and surprisingly healthy when baked instead of fried. Whether it’s for a casual family dinner or a fun Friday night meal, this recipe is simple, satisfying, and ready in under an hour.

Ingredients

For the Fish Sticks:

• 1 lb white fish fillets (cod, haddock, or tilapia), cut into strips
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1½ cups breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Cooking spray or olive oil, for baking

For the Sweet Potato Fries:

• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into thin wedges or sticks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

Sweet Potato Fries:

1. Preheat Oven:
   Preheat to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Season the Fries:
   Toss sweet potato sticks with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Bake:
   Spread in a single layer on the sheet. Bake for 30–35 minutes, flipping halfway through, until edges are crisp.

Fish Sticks:

1. Prepare Breading Station:
   Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Coat the Fish:
   Dip each fish strip in flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs. Place on a baking rack or parchment-lined baking sheet.
3. Bake:
   Spray lightly with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15–18 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crispy.
4. Serve:
   Serve fish sticks hot with sweet potato fries and your favorite dipping sauces like tartar sauce, ketchup, or spicy mayo.

Tips & Tricks About Fish Sticks with Sweet Potato Fries

• Crispier Fish Sticks: Use a wire rack on the baking tray to allow air circulation.
• Flavor Boost: Add lemon zest or grated Parmesan to the breadcrumb mixture.
• Sweet Potato Tip: Don’t overcrowd the fries on the pan—space ensures crispness.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Bread the fish ahead of time and freeze; bake straight from frozen.

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