Name: Salmon Croquettes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 (14 oz) cans salmon, drained and flaked (or 2 cups cooked fresh salmon, flaked); 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or whole-wheat); ½ cup finely diced onion; 2 scallions or green onions, thinly sliced; 2 large eggs, beaten; 2 tsp Dijon mustard; 1 tsp lemon zest; ½ tsp garlic powder; ¼ tsp black pepper; ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste); 2–3 tbsp olive oil or neutral oil for frying; Optional: 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or dill

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These salmon croquettes are golden-fried patties made with tender flaked salmon, breadcrumbs, and savory seasonings. Crispy on the outside and tender within, they’re perfect as a main dish, appetizer, or sandwich filling.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy & flavorful – pan-fried to a golden crust with seasoned salmon
Quick and easy – ready in about 30 minutes using canned or leftover salmon
Versatile – serve as finger food, with salad, or in buns
Kid-friendly – mild flavor that appeals to all ages

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 (14 oz) cans salmon, drained and flaked (or about 2 cups cooked fresh salmon, flaked)
1 cup breadcrumbs (use panko or whole‑wheat)
½ cup finely diced onion
2 scallions or green onions, thinly sliced
2 large eggs, beaten
2 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp lemon zest
½ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp black pepper
½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
2–3 tbsp olive oil or neutral oil for frying
Optional: chopped fresh parsley or dill (2 tbsp)

directions

Combine ingredients
In a large bowl, mix flaked salmon, breadcrumbs, onion, scallions, eggs, mustard, lemon zest, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and herbs until evenly combined. If mixture is too wet, add a little more breadcrumbs; if too dry, add a splash of water or beaten egg.
Form patties
Shape the mixture into 8 evenly sized patties (about ¾-inch thick). Place on a tray and refrigerate for 10 minutes to help them hold shape during cooking.
Heat the pan
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Test with one patty first to ensure oil is hot but not smoking.
Cook patties
Add patties without crowding the pan. Cook 3–4 minutes per side, until deep golden-brown and heated through. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
Serve
Serve warm with lemon wedges, tartar sauce, aioli, or your favorite dipping sauce. They’re delicious as is or inside buns for a sandwich twist.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 (2 patties each)
Prep time: 10 minutes (plus 10 minutes chilling time)
Cook time: 10–12 minutes
Total time: ~30 minutes

Variations

Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce to the mixture
Cheesy version: Stir in ½ cup grated cheddar or Parmesan
Healthier bake: Brush patties with olive oil and bake at 375 °F for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway
Gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond meal
Herb swap: Use cilantro, chives, or tarragon instead of parsley/dill

storage/reheating

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
Freezer: Flash-freeze patties on a sheet tray, then transfer to a bag—freeze up to 2 months
Reheat: Warm in a 350 °F oven for 6–8 minutes or re-pan-fry for 2–3 minutes each side

Salmon Croquettes

FAQs

Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?

Yes—use about 2 cups of cooked, flaked salmon (grilled, baked, or poached).

Do I need eggs?

Eggs help bind the mixture. For an egg-free version, use a flax egg or extra breadcrumbs.

Can I bake instead of fry?

Yes—brush lightly with oil and bake at 375 °F for 12–15 minutes, flipping once.

Is this gluten-free?

Make it gluten-free by swapping breadcrumbs for gluten-free or almond flour.

Can I air-fry them?

Yes—air-fry at 375 °F for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway.

What dipping sauces go well?

Tartar sauce, lemon aioli, creamy herb dressing, or spicy mayo are all great pairings.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes—finely diced bell pepper, celery, or corn add flavor and texture.

How do I keep them from falling apart?

Chill the patties before cooking to help them firm up.

Are these kid-friendly?

Definitely—the mild, savory flavor appeals to children, especially with a dipping sauce.

Can I meal-prep these?

Yes—prepare patties in advance and store raw (refrigerated up to 1 day) or cooked for easy grab-and-go meals.

Conclusion

Salmon croquettes are a delicious, easy-to-make dish that delivers flaky salmon goodness and satisfying crunch. Whether pan-fried or baked, they’re adaptable, protein-rich, and perfect for any mealtime. Enjoy them as an appetizer, sandwich, or family dinner favorite!

Sophia