Salmon Croquettes Recipe (Crispy, Flavorful, and Easy to Make!)
If you’re searching for the best salmon croquettes recipe, you’re in the right place. These crispy, golden croquettes are a classic comfort food that’s quick, budget-friendly, and incredibly delicious. Whether you’re using canned salmon from your pantry or leftover fresh salmon from last night’s dinner, this recipe comes together in minutes and never disappoints.
In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to make salmon croquettes that are moist on the inside, perfectly crisp on the outside, and bursting with Southern-style flavor. This is an easy weeknight meal, a perfect appetizer, or a brunch favorite you’ll want to make again and again.
What Are Salmon Croquettes?
Salmon croquettes are small patties made from flaked salmon mixed with breadcrumbs, eggs, herbs, and seasonings. They’re formed into patties and pan-fried until golden brown and crispy.
They’re similar to salmon cakes or salmon patties but usually have a slightly softer, creamier interior and a crispier crust. You can enjoy them as a main dish, on a sandwich, with a salad, or dipped in your favorite sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Salmon Croquettes Recipe
✔ Quick and budget-friendly – Uses basic pantry ingredients
✔ Versatile – Works with canned, fresh, or leftover salmon
✔ Perfect texture – Crispy exterior, tender and flavorful inside
✔ Kid-friendly – Mild, savory flavor everyone loves
✔ Great for meal prep – Makes a fantastic leftover or lunchbox option
✔ Southern-style flavor – Classic seasonings and a hint of tang
This salmon croquettes recipe is the type of recipe your family will ask for again and again.
Ingredients for the Best Salmon Croquettes Recipe
Here’s everything you need:
For the Croquettes
- 2 cans (14–15 oz) salmon, drained and flaked
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (or crushed saltine crackers)
- ¼ cup finely chopped onion
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Oil for frying (vegetable oil or avocado oil)
For Serving
- Lemon wedges
- Tartar sauce, remoulade, or spicy mayo
- Fresh herbs
How to Make This Salmon Croquettes Recipe
Follow these simple steps for perfect croquettes every time:
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
If you’re using canned salmon, drain it well. Remove any large bones or skin (though the bones are edible and soft).
If you’re using fresh salmon, bake or pan-sear it beforehand, then flake it.
Place the flaked salmon in a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Mix in the Seasonings and Binders
Add the following to the bowl:
- Eggs
- Breadcrumbs
- Onion
- Parsley
- Dijon mustard
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Paprika
- Lemon juice
- Salt and pepper
Gently mix until everything comes together. The mixture should be moist but firm enough to shape.
Tip: If the mixture feels too wet, add more breadcrumbs. If it’s too dry, add a splash of milk or an extra egg.
Step 3: Form the Salmon Croquettes
Use your hands to shape the mixture into small patties, about 2–3 inches wide. You should get 10–12 croquettes depending on size.
For extra crunch, you can lightly coat each patty in additional breadcrumbs before frying.
Step 4: Pan-Fry the Croquettes
Heat about ¼ inch of oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Add the salmon croquettes and cook 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve warm with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce.
These croquettes pair beautifully with:
- Coleslaw
- Mashed potatoes
- Rice
- Steamed veggies
- Garden salad
Salmon Croquettes Recipe Tips
✔ Don’t Overmix
Stir just until combined to keep the croquettes tender.
✔ Use Cold Salmon
Chilled salmon makes the patties hold their shape better.
✔ Add a Crunchy Coating
Coating each croquette in breadcrumbs before frying adds an extra crispy layer.
✔ Make Them Spicy
Add cayenne, Old Bay, Cajun seasoning, or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Baked Salmon Croquettes Option
If you prefer a healthier version, you can bake the croquettes instead of frying them.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place croquettes on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Spray or brush lightly with oil.
- Bake 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through.
They won’t get as crispy as the fried version, but they’re still delicious.
Air Fryer Salmon Croquettes Option
An air fryer is a great alternative if you want crispiness without deep frying.
- Preheat air fryer to 390°F (200°C).
- Lightly spray croquettes with oil.
- Air fry 8–10 minutes, flipping once.
What to Serve with Salmon Croquettes
These sides pair perfectly:
Comfort Food Classics
- Mashed potatoes
- Fried okra
- Creamed corn
- Southern green beans
Healthy Options
- Mixed green salad
- Roasted asparagus
- Quinoa bowl
- Sautéed spinach
Carb Options
- Rice pilaf
- Dinner rolls
- Cornbread
How to Store and Reheat
Refrigerator
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer
Freeze uncooked or cooked patties for up to 2 months.
Flash-freeze on a tray, then store in a freezer-safe bag.
Reheat
- Pan: 3–4 minutes per side
- Oven: 10 minutes at 375°F
- Air fryer: 5 minutes at 380°F
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are salmon croquettes healthy?
Yes — salmon is rich in protein, omega-3s, and vitamins. Baking or air frying makes them even healthier.
2. Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?
Absolutely. Fresh salmon gives a richer flavor, but canned salmon is convenient and delicious.
3. Why are my salmon croquettes falling apart?
Your mixture may need more binder (egg or breadcrumbs) or the skillet may not be hot enough.
4. Can I make salmon croquettes ahead of time?
Yes! You can form the patties and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking.
Final Thoughts: The Best Salmon Croquettes Recipe
This salmon croquettes recipe is simple, satisfying, and perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or meal prep. With the ideal balance of crispy texture and savory flavor, it’s a recipe that never goes out of style.
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