Name: Grilled Walleye Sandwich Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 c. mayonnaise; 2 Tbsp finely chopped dill pickle; 1 tsp grated lemon zest (divided); 1 Tbsp lemon juice; 1 tsp Dijon mustard; 1 Tbsp snipped fresh dill or 1 tsp dried dill (divided); 2 cloves garlic (minced, divided); 1 Tbsp olive oil; 1/2 tsp Kosher salt; 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper; 4 boneless, skinless walleye fillets (about 1 1/2 lbs); Hot sauce (to taste); 3-4 lemons (thinly sliced); 4 soft sub or hot dog rolls; 1 c. dill pickle slices; 2 c. shredded iceberg or romaine lettuce; 2 tomatoes (sliced 1/4” thick)

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving a lunch that will become your new go-to, the Grilled Walleye Sandwich is a major contender. Imagine tender, flaky walleye fillets kissed by the grill, layered with bright homemade tartar sauce, cool lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and crunchy pickles, all stacked inside a toasted bun. Each bite is both comforting and irresistibly fresh—the kind of sandwich that feels a little special, even when you’re just grilling in your backyard. If you love sandwiches loaded with flavor, the Grilled Walleye Sandwich will make you a lifelong fan.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Grilled Walleye Sandwich Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This sandwich shines because of a handful of vibrant, fresh ingredients. Each one plays an important role, from the delicate fish to the zippy pickles and fragrant dill, creating a sandwich that’s balanced in taste and texture.

Mayonnaise: The creamy base for tartar sauce, holding all the other flavors together.
Finely chopped dill pickle: Adds a tangy crunch to your homemade tartar sauce.
Grated lemon zest: Delivers a bright, sunny citrus note throughout the dish.
Lemon juice: Brings tang and fresh acidity to both the sauce and the fish.
Dijon mustard: Adds just the right touch of sharpness and complexity to the tartar sauce.
Snipped fresh dill (or dried dill): Infuses both the fish and sauce with an unmistakably fresh, herbal flavor.
Minced garlic: Adds a hint of robust depth to both the tartar sauce and fish marinade.
Olive oil: Keeps the fish moist and enriches the citrusy herb mixture.
Kosher salt: Brings out all the best flavors and seasons the dish evenly.
Freshly ground black pepper: Offers a little bite and complexity to each layer.
Boneless, skinless walleye fillets: The star of the show—delicate, flaky, and perfect for grilling.
Hot sauce: Customizes your marinade with a pop of heat—add as much or little as you like!
Thinly sliced lemons: These act as a citrusy grill “bed” that flavors and gently protects the fish.
Soft sub or hot dog rolls: The perfect vessel, soft enough to cradle the fish but sturdy enough to hold everything together.
Dill pickle slices: Add extra tang and crunch when you bite into the sandwich.
Shredded iceberg or romaine lettuce: Brings cool crispness and a little extra snap.
Tomatoes, sliced thick: Juicy, sweet, and essential for a truly satisfying sandwich experience.

How to Make Grilled Walleye Sandwich

Step 1: Whip Up the Homemade Tartar Sauce

Start by making the tartar sauce, which you can prepare ahead of time for extra convenience. Whisk together mayonnaise, chopped dill pickle, 1 teaspoon lemon zest, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon fresh dill (or 1 teaspoon dried), half the minced garlic, and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add kosher salt and black pepper, giving everything a good mix until smooth. Pop it in the fridge while you tackle the rest; this sauce gets even better as it chills and mingles.

Step 2: Fire Up the Grill

Get your charcoal grill going and preheat it to about 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Using Kingsford Charcoal gives your Grilled Walleye Sandwich an authentic, smoky finish that you just can’t replicate indoors. While the grill heats, you’ll prep the fish and flavorings so everything is ready to go once the coals are glowing.

Step 3: Prepare the Lemon-Dill Marinade and the Walleye

In a small bowl, combine the remaining lemon zest and juice, dill, garlic, and olive oil. A splash of hot sauce gives the marinade a customizable kick, depending on how spicy you like things. Season the walleye fillets generously on both sides with salt and pepper; this ensures every bite is flavorful from the inside out.

Step 4: Grill the Walleye on Lemon Slices

Give your grill grates a quick oil to prevent sticking. Layer the thin lemon slices directly on the grates, just overlapping to fit the size of your fillets; it’s a genius trick that keeps the fish from sticking and infuses it with fresh citrus. Set the fillets on top of the lemons and brush them with your citrusy dill mixture. Close the grill and let the fish cook for about 10 to 12 minutes, until it’s opaque and flakes easily with a fork. There’s no need to flip—just let the grill and the lemons work their magic.

Step 5: Assemble the Grilled Walleye Sandwich

Now for the best part: building your sandwich! Lightly toast and butter the sub or hot dog rolls for a little extra crunch and flavor. Slather both sides of each roll with your homemade tartar sauce, set a juicy grilled walleye fillet inside, then pile on dill pickle slices, shredded lettuce, and thick-sliced tomatoes. Serve immediately while the fish is warm and the toppings are crisp. The Grilled Walleye Sandwich is ready to steal the spotlight!

How to Serve Grilled Walleye Sandwich

Garnishes

Finish off your sandwich with a flourish of extra fresh dill or a squeeze of lemon right before serving. These simple touches heighten the flavors and make your Grilled Walleye Sandwich feel extra special and vibrant.

Side Dishes

This sandwich is just begging for some classic sides. Think of crispy oven fries, a fresh coleslaw, or even a handful of kettle chips. For lighter fare, serve alongside a simple green salad with a zippy lemon vinaigrette.

Creative Ways to Present

Don’t be afraid to turn your Grilled Walleye Sandwich into the star of an indoor picnic or backyard barbecue platter. Cut the sandwiches into smaller pieces for sliders at your next party, or wrap them in parchment with a pickle on the side for a nostalgic fish-shack touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover grilled walleye, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep the toppings and rolls separate so everything stays fresh and doesn’t get soggy when you’re ready for seconds.

Freezing

While the tartar sauce and vegetables are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftover grilled walleye. Wrap the cooled fillets tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to two months—just remember to thaw gently in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the fish fillets gently in a low oven (about 275 degrees Fahrenheit) until heated through, or in a covered skillet over low heat. This method keeps the fish moist and prevents it from drying out. Once warm, assemble your Grilled Walleye Sandwich using fresh rolls and toppings for best results.

FAQs

Can I use frozen walleye fillets for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the fillets thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels before grilling. This will help you achieve that tender, flaky texture in your Grilled Walleye Sandwich.

What can I substitute for walleye if I can’t find it?

If walleye isn’t available, try mild, flaky fish like tilapia, cod, or haddock. Each will work beautifully, offering a similar clean flavor perfect for grilling and sandwiches.

Can I grill the walleye indoors?

Yes, you can use a grill pan or broiler if outdoor grilling isn’t an option. The key is to still use the lemon slices under the fish to infuse that citrus flavor and help prevent sticking.

Is the homemade tartar sauce necessary?

Homemade tartar sauce makes a huge difference in the Grilled Walleye Sandwich. Its tangy, herbaceous flavors complement the fish perfectly, and it’s so easy to whip up that you’ll never want to use store-bought again!

Can this sandwich be made gluten-free?

Definitely. Just swap the regular rolls for your favorite gluten-free buns or bread and double-check any sauces for hidden gluten. The flavors shine through either way, so everyone can enjoy.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve never tried a Grilled Walleye Sandwich, now’s the perfect time. This recipe is a celebration of simple, fresh flavors—and it’s guaranteed to bring smiles (and second helpings) to your table. Grab your grill, gather your ingredients, and create a sandwich that will have everyone wondering why you didn’t make it sooner!

Grilled Walleye Sandwich Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 10 reviews

Author: Chloe
Total Time: 27 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Pescatarian

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Description

This Grilled Walleye Sandwich recipe is a delightful dish featuring tender walleye fillets grilled to perfection and served in soft rolls with a zesty homemade tartar sauce and classic sandwich fixings.

Instructions

Tartar Sauce: Whisk together mayonnaise, chopped dill pickle, 1 teaspoon lemon zest, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon fresh or 1 teaspoon dried dill, half of the minced garlic, and 1 tablespoon olive oil until smooth. Season with salt and pepper. Refrigerate.
Grilled Walleye Sandwich: Preheat grill to 350°F. Combine remaining lemon zest and juice, dill, garlic, and olive oil in a bowl. Season fish with salt and pepper. Grill fish on lemon slices for 10-12 minutes. Toast rolls, spread with tartar sauce, add fish fillet, pickle slices, lettuce, and tomato. Serve.

Notes

For a spicier kick, add more hot sauce to the lemon-dill mixture.
Adjust the grilling time based on the thickness of the fish fillets for perfect doneness.
Feel free to customize the sandwich with your favorite toppings like avocado or red onion.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: American