Salmon croquettes are a timeless dish that brings together the flaky richness of salmon, the warmth of Southern seasoning, and the crisp perfection of pan-fried patties. Whether you’re craving comfort food, looking for a budget-friendly seafood dish, or trying to repurpose canned salmon in the tastiest way possible, this recipe hits all the marks.

Made with pantry staples, this Southern-inspired salmon croquettes recipe is incredibly easy to make, comes together quickly, and satisfies every craving. They’re perfect for weeknight dinners, brunch with family, or even as a unique appetizer for gatherings.

In this article, you’ll learn how to make salmon croquettes from scratch using simple ingredients. We’ll cover everything from essential tools, step-by-step instructions, expert tips, delicious variations, and how to serve them for maximum flavor. Let’s dive into the flaky, golden world of salmon croquettes!

Recipe Preparation Equipment

Before you start cooking, gather the following equipment to ensure a smooth prep and cooking process:

Large mixing bowl
Medium frying pan or cast-iron skillet
Slotted spoon or spatula
Whisk or fork
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board
Paper towels
Baking sheet (optional for chilling croquettes)
Food processor (optional for texture)

What Do You Need to Prepare Salmon Croquettes?

Here are the basic ingredients you’ll need to prepare this easy salmon croquettes recipe:

Main Ingredients:

2 cans (14.75 oz each) pink salmon, drained and deboned
2 large eggs
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
1/4 cup finely chopped bell pepper (optional for added crunch)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs or crushed saltine crackers
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons mayonnaise (optional, for moistness)
1 tablespoon yellow mustard or Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
Oil for frying (vegetable oil, canola, or peanut oil)

How to Make Easy Salmon Croquettes Step-by-Step?

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon Mixture

Drain the canned salmon and remove any visible bones or skin. Place the salmon in a large bowl and flake it with a fork. Add the eggs, chopped onion, bell pepper (if using), breadcrumbs, flour, mayonnaise, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until well combined.

Step 2: Shape the Croquettes

Using clean hands or a scoop, form the mixture into medium-sized patties. You can shape them into rounds or ovals, about 2 to 3 inches in diameter. Place them on a tray lined with parchment paper. For best results, refrigerate the patties for 15–20 minutes to help them firm up.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

Heat about 1/2 inch of oil in a skillet over medium heat. To test if the oil is hot enough, drop a small bit of the salmon mixture into the oil—if it sizzles, it’s ready.

Step 4: Fry the Croquettes

Carefully place 3–4 croquettes into the skillet without crowding. Fry for 3–4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crisp. Flip them gently using a spatula. Once cooked, transfer the croquettes to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the hot salmon croquettes with your favorite dipping sauce, lemon wedges, or over a bed of greens for a lighter option.

Variations

The beauty of salmon croquettes lies in their versatility. You can tweak the ingredients to suit your taste or make use of what you already have at home. For a spicy twist, add chopped jalapeños, hot sauce, or cayenne pepper to the mixture. If you’re avoiding gluten, substitute the flour and breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free panko.

For those looking to make it more herby and fresh, try adding dill, parsley, or chives. Want to go gourmet? Mix in a bit of grated Parmesan cheese, capers, or lemon zest.

You can also swap out canned salmon for fresh cooked salmon just make sure it’s flaked and cooled before mixing. For a baked version, skip the frying and bake the patties at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Want a more kid-friendly version? Make mini croquettes and serve with ketchup or ranch. These bite-sized treats are perfect for lunchboxes and picky eaters.

Lastly, try an air fryer method for a healthier option spray the patties with a little oil and cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway for even browning.

Cooking Note

Consistency is key when preparing salmon croquettes. If your mixture feels too wet, add more breadcrumbs or flour. Too dry? A touch of mayo, a splash of milk, or even an extra egg will help moisten the mix.

Always taste the mixture (before adding raw egg) to adjust the seasoning this step ensures balanced flavor throughout.

If using fresh salmon, be sure to cook it thoroughly and let it cool before mixing with other ingredients. Canned salmon is a great time-saver and comes pre-cooked, but make sure to drain it well and remove any remaining bones or skin for the best texture.

To prevent your croquettes from falling apart during frying, don’t skip the chilling step letting the patties rest in the fridge firms them up and helps them hold shape when cooking.

Also, don’t overcrowd the pan this drops the oil temperature and causes soggy croquettes. Fry in batches and keep the cooked ones warm in the oven if needed.

Finally, use a light touch when flipping the croquettes. They’re delicate when hot and crisp up best when not disturbed too much.

Serving Suggestions

Salmon croquettes are incredibly versatile and pair well with many side dishes. For a Southern-style meal, serve them with collard greens, macaroni and cheese, or buttermilk cornbread.

For a lighter plate, pair with a crisp green salad, steamed vegetables, or roasted sweet potatoes. If you’re serving for brunch, they’re fantastic alongside poached eggs, grits, or avocado toast.

Add a dip for extra flair classic tartar sauce, spicy remoulade, garlic aioli, or even a drizzle of lemon butter will elevate the flavor.

Want to make it a full meal? Place your salmon croquette on a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, and a zesty sauce for an irresistible salmon burger.

For an elegant presentation, stack them over mashed potatoes with a dollop of sour cream and chives.

Helpful Tips

Drain Salmon Thoroughly: Excess moisture can make your croquettes soggy.
Use a Binder: Eggs and breadcrumbs are key to holding everything together.
Refrigerate Before Frying: Chill for 15–30 minutes to prevent falling apart.
Control the Oil Temperature: Too hot, they burn; too cold, they soak up oil. Aim for 350°F (175°C).
Don’t Overcrowd: Fry in small batches for crisp, even cooking.
Season Generously: Salmon is flavorful but benefits from herbs, spices, and aromatics.
Use Non-Stick Pans or Cast Iron: Helps prevent sticking and ensures a golden crust.
Try Air Frying or Baking: Healthier options that still deliver a crispy texture.
Make Ahead: Form and refrigerate the patties up to 1 day ahead.
Freeze Extras: Lay on a tray, freeze until solid, then store in a bag just thaw and reheat.

Tips for the Best Salmon Croquettes

Balance Texture: Aim for a mixture that holds its shape but isn’t too dry moist but not mushy.
Flavor Boost: Add herbs like dill or parsley, or spices like Old Bay or Cajun seasoning for more depth.
Crunch Factor: Use panko breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for extra crispiness.
Presentation: Use a cookie scoop for uniform shape and size.
Perfect Flip: Fry undisturbed until one side is golden, then flip gently to avoid breaking.

Adding a squeeze of fresh lemon just before serving brings a bright, zesty touch that enhances the salmon’s natural flavor.

Timing Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Makes 6 Croquettes)

Calories: 290
Protein: 19g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Sodium: 420mg
Fat: 18g
Cholesterol: 85mg
Fiber: 1g

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FAQs

Q: Can I make salmon croquettes ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare and refrigerate them up to 24 hours before frying, or freeze them for longer storage.

Q: What’s the difference between croquettes and patties?
A: Both are similar, but croquettes are often breaded and more structured, while patties may be looser and less crispy.

Q: Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?
A: Absolutely. Cook and flake fresh salmon, then use it in place of canned in the same quantity.

Q: Can I bake these instead of frying?
A: Yes, bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway. They won’t be as crispy but are healthier.

Q: How do I keep them from falling apart?
A: Make sure the mixture is balanced not too wet and chill them before frying.

Conclusion

Salmon croquettes are more than just a quick dinner fix they’re a nostalgic, comforting dish with roots in Southern kitchens and beyond. Whether you’re using pantry staples or fresh ingredients, these flavorful, crispy bites are satisfying, budget-friendly, and endlessly customizable.

From brunch to dinner, from kid-friendly meals to elegant appetizers, salmon croquettes always impress. Master this recipe once, and it’ll quickly become a reliable favorite in your kitchen.

Give it a try today, and enjoy every golden, flaky bite!