Salmon Croquettes

Introduction

Salmon Croquettes are a crispy, flavorful way to enjoy tender, flaky salmon in a comforting, budget-friendly dish. These golden-brown patties are packed with savory seasonings, coated in breadcrumbs, and pan-fried to perfection, creating a satisfying crunch with every bite. Whether you’re looking for an easy appetizer, a light lunch, or a hearty dinner, Salmon Croquettes deliver deliciousness in a simple, crowd-pleasing recipe.

The first time I made these, I was amazed by how effortless they were to put together. Mixing the salmon with herbs, a touch of mustard, and breadcrumbs gave it just the right balance of flavor and texture. As they sizzled in the pan, the crispy crust formed beautifully, making them irresistible even before the first bite. Pairing them with a tangy dipping sauce or a fresh squeeze of lemon took them to the next level.

What I love most about Salmon Croquettes is their versatility. They’re just as delicious served with a crisp side salad as they are alongside creamy coleslaw or roasted vegetables. You can swap in fresh, canned, or leftover salmon, and even experiment with seasonings like Cajun spice or Old Bay for a unique twist. No matter how you serve them, these croquettes are sure to become a go-to favorite for any occasion.

Perfect for:

• Quick and easy meals
• Family dinners
• Seafood lovers
• Budget-friendly cooking
• Potluck and party appetizers

Why You’ll Love This Salmon Croquettes Recipe

Here’s why Salmon Croquettes will become a household favorite:

• Crispy on the Outside, Tender Inside: A perfectly crisp crust gives way to a soft and flavorful salmon filling.
• Great Use of Canned or Fresh Salmon: Use whichever you have on hand for an easy and affordable meal.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dish.
• Versatile: Serve as an appetizer, main dish, or even in sandwiches.
• Kid-Friendly: A great way to introduce seafood to picky eaters.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings (8 croquettes)
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 20g, Carbs: 15g, Fat: 12g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Salmon Croquettes:

• 1 (14.75 oz) can salmon, drained and flaked (or 1 lb cooked fresh salmon)
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (or Cajun seasoning)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
• ½ cup additional breadcrumbs (for coating)
• 2 tablespoons butter or vegetable oil (for frying)
• Optional: Lemon wedges and tartar sauce for serving

Ingredient Highlights

• Salmon: Canned or fresh salmon works well, making this dish versatile and budget-friendly.
• Breadcrumbs: Panko creates an extra crispy texture, while regular breadcrumbs work for a classic crunch.
• Seasonings: A mix of garlic, onion, paprika, and Old Bay enhances the savory seafood flavor.
• Lemon Juice: Adds brightness and freshness to balance the richness of the salmon.
• Egg and Mayo: Bind the mixture together for perfectly shaped croquettes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Salmon Mixture:

1. Drain and Flake the Salmon: If using canned salmon, drain well and remove any bones or skin. Flake the salmon into a large mixing bowl.
2. Add Binders and Seasonings: Mix in the breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, beaten egg, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, parsley, and green onions.
3. Combine Well: Stir until the mixture is evenly combined and holds together when pressed.

Form the Croquettes:

4. Shape the Patties: Using your hands, form the mixture into 8 small patties or croquettes, about ½-inch thick.
5. Coat in Breadcrumbs: Lightly press each croquette into the additional breadcrumbs for extra crispiness.

Cook the Croquettes:

6. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, melt butter or heat vegetable oil over medium heat.
7. Pan-Fry Until Golden: Cook the croquettes for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
8. Drain Excess Oil: Remove from the skillet and place on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.

How to Serve Salmon Croquettes

• With a Classic Remoulade – Serve croquettes with a tangy remoulade sauce made from mayonnaise, mustard, capers, and herbs for a classic Southern touch.
• Over a Fresh Salad – Place salmon croquettes on a bed of mixed greens, arugula, or spinach, drizzled with a lemon vinaigrette for a light and refreshing meal.
• With a Side of Grits – Pair croquettes with creamy cheese grits or garlic butter grits for a comforting Southern-style breakfast or brunch.
• In a Sandwich or Burger – Serve them on a brioche bun or toasted ciabatta with lettuce, tomato, and a dollop of tartar sauce or aioli for a delicious croquette sandwich.
• Topped with Poached Eggs – Transform them into a brunch favorite by topping with a poached egg and hollandaise sauce for a salmon croquette Benedict.
• With Roasted Vegetables – Serve alongside a mix of roasted asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes for a well-balanced, nutritious meal.
• As an Appetizer with Dipping Sauces – Cut croquettes into bite-sized portions and serve with honey mustard, garlic aioli, or a spicy sriracha mayo for a party-friendly appetizer.
• With Rice and Beans – Serve over a bed of seasoned rice and black beans, or try a Cajun-style dirty rice for a bold, flavorful pairing.
• With Mashed Potatoes – A classic comfort meal—pair croquettes with buttery mashed potatoes and a lemon-dill sauce for a hearty dinner.
• Inside a Wrap or Taco – Break croquettes into smaller pieces and serve them inside warm tortillas with shredded cabbage, avocado, and a drizzle of chipotle crema for a salmon croquette taco twist.

Additional Tips for Salmon Croquettes

• Use Fresh or Canned Salmon – While canned salmon is convenient, using freshly cooked and flaked salmon will enhance the flavor and texture.
• Drain Excess Moisture – If using canned salmon, drain it well and pat it dry to prevent soggy croquettes. If using fresh salmon, avoid overcooking to retain moisture without making the mixture too wet.
• Add a Binder – Use a combination of eggs, breadcrumbs, and mayonnaise to hold the croquettes together. If they’re too crumbly, add a bit more binder; if too wet, add more breadcrumbs.
• Chill the Mixture – Refrigerate the salmon mixture for at least 30 minutes before forming patties. This helps them hold their shape and makes frying easier.
• Use Panko for Extra Crunch – Coat the croquettes with panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs for a crispier exterior.
• Season Well – Enhance the flavor with Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, or fresh herbs like parsley or dill. A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the flavor.
• Pan-Fry for Best Texture – Shallow-frying in a little oil creates a crispy crust while keeping the inside moist. Avoid deep-frying, as it can make them greasy.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Cook croquettes in batches with enough space between them to ensure even browning and crispiness.
• Bake or Air-Fry for a Healthier Option – Instead of pan-frying, bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through. For an air fryer, cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping once.
• Serve with a Dipping Sauce – Pair croquettes with remoulade, tartar sauce, spicy mayo, or a lemon-dill yogurt sauce for extra flavor.

Recipe Variations for Salmon Croquettes

1. Spicy Cajun Croquettes: Add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper and use Cajun seasoning.
2. Cheesy Croquettes: Mix in ¼ cup shredded Parmesan or cheddar cheese.
3. Mediterranean Croquettes: Add chopped olives and feta cheese.
4. Gluten-Free Croquettes: Use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
5. Dill and Lemon Croquettes: Add extra fresh dill and lemon zest.
6. Japanese-Inspired Croquettes: Use soy sauce instead of mustard and serve with tonkatsu sauce.
7. Tex-Mex Croquettes: Add chopped jalapeños and a dash of cumin.
8. Garlic Butter Croquettes: Brush with melted garlic butter after frying.
9. Smoky Croquettes: Add smoked paprika and a dash of liquid smoke.
10. Zesty Lime Croquettes: Swap lemon juice for lime juice and top with avocado slices.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Freeze uncooked croquettes on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook directly from frozen.
• Storage: Store cooked croquettes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.

Special Equipment for Salmon Croquettes

• Large Skillet or Frying Pan
• Mixing Bowls
• Spatula
• Baking Sheet (for freezing or baking option)

FAQ for Salmon Croquettes

1. Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned? Yes, cook and flake fresh salmon before using.
2. Can I bake instead of fry? Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
3. What’s the best dipping sauce? Tartar sauce, remoulade, honey mustard, or sriracha mayo are great choices.
4. Can I use tuna instead of salmon? Yes, canned tuna works well as a substitute.
5. How do I keep croquettes from falling apart? Ensure the mixture is moist but not too wet—chilling before cooking also helps.

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Conclusion

Salmon Croquettes are a crispy, flavorful dish that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Whether using canned or fresh salmon, these golden-brown bites are packed with bold seasonings and a crunchy exterior that makes them irresistible. Perfect as a main course, appetizer, or snack, they offer the ideal balance of convenience and gourmet taste.

Simple yet versatile, these croquettes can be paired with a zesty dipping sauce, served over a fresh salad, or enjoyed on their own. Their crispy texture and rich flavor make them a go-to recipe for any occasion, from casual meals to special gatherings.

I can’t wait to see your take on Salmon Croquettes! Snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I’d love to see your spin on this classic dish. Don’t forget to share your favorite variations in the comments. Happy cooking!