Easy Homemade Salmon Croquettes Recipe | 20-Min Meal

Growing up in the South, the smell of sizzling salmon croquettes was always welcome. These golden patties were full of canned salmon’s rich taste. They were a favorite in our home, a meal that united us.

Now, as a busy parent, I’m excited to share this easy recipe. It brings back those special moments.

Key Takeaways

• Salmon croquettes are a classic Southern comfort food dish that can be prepared in just 20 minutes.
• The recipe combines canned or fresh salmon with flavorful ingredients like bell peppers, onions, and seasoning.
• Salmon croquettes are versatile and can be served as an entree, side dish, or appetizer.
• The recipe is easy to customize and adapt to your personal taste preferences.
• Salmon croquettes are a budget-friendly and nutritious meal option that the whole family will enjoy.

What Are Salmon Croquettes and Why You’ll Love Them

Salmon croquettes recipes are a Southern classic. They’re like crab cakes but with salmon. They’re great for any meal and loved by many.

Southern Classic Comfort Food

For generations, salmon croquettes have been a favorite in the South. They mix flaky salmon with spices and a crispy outside. This makes a comfort food that’s deeply rooted in Southern traditions.

Perfect for Any Meal of the Day

Salmon croquettes aren’t just for dinner. They’re also great for breakfast or lunch. Try them with eggs and toast in the morning or with a salad for lunch. They’re perfect for any time.

Quick and Budget-Friendly Option

These patties are quick to make, ready in just 20 minutes. They’re also budget-friendly. You can use canned salmon or leftover salmon to save money.

“The crispy exterior and flavorful interior of these salmon croquettes make them a true crowd-pleaser for all ages.”

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Salmon Croquettes Recipe

To make the perfect salmon croquettes, you need the right ingredients. The main parts include:

• Canned or fresh cooked salmon – This is the base, giving the dish its seafood taste.
• All-purpose flour or a gluten-free alternative – It helps the croquettes stick together.
• Cornmeal or breadcrumbs – These add a nice crunch on the outside.
• Eggs – They help mix the ingredients and give the croquettes shape.
• Diced vegetables like bell peppers and onions – They add flavor and texture.
• Worcestershire sauce – It brings a savory, umami flavor.
• Seasoned salt, black pepper, garlic powder – These are key for a balanced taste.
• Mayonnaise – It makes the croquettes moist and creamy.
• Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley – They enhance the flavor.

You can also add lemon juice, Dijon mustard, or crushed red pepper flakes for extra taste. This recipe is great because you can change ingredients to fit your diet or what you have at home.

Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed

To make delicious salmon fritters or salmon balls, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. Let’s look at the must-haves for this tasty recipe.

Essential Cookware

You’ll need a large skillet or frying pan for cooking the salmon croquettes recipe. A heavy-bottomed pan is best for even heating and to prevent sticking.

Mixing and Preparation Tools

You’ll need a few key tools for mixing and preparing. A large mixing bowl is essential for combining all the ingredients. A whisk helps blend the wet ingredients smoothly. And, you’ll need measuring cups and spoons for accurate measurements.

A fish spatula is optional but very useful. It helps gently handle the delicate salmon patties while cooking.

Optional Equipment

While not necessary, some extra equipment can make things easier. A food processor can save time by finely chopping the salmon and veggies. A 3-inch biscuit cutter is great for making uniform salmon balls or fritters. An air fryer is a healthier choice for cooking the croquettes if you want to avoid frying.

Lastly, parchment paper is very helpful when freezing uncooked salmon patties for later.

Preparation and Seasoning Tips

Making the perfect salmon croquettes recipe begins with proper preparation and seasoning. Start by draining and removing bones from the salmon patty mix. This step helps achieve a smooth texture for your croquettes.

Season the salmon well with garlic powder, onion powder, seasoned salt, and black pepper. Adding finely chopped celery and onions can add more flavor. For a unique twist, try adding fresh cilantro or parsley.

Make sure to mix all ingredients well for a uniform blend. If using fresh salmon, bake it at 350°F for 10-15 minutes. This ensures your croquettes are full of salmon flavor.

Follow these tips to make mouthwatering salmon croquettes recipe that everyone will love.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making delicious fried salmon cakes is easy and quick. It only takes 20 minutes to make a tasty meal. Follow these steps to create mouthwatering salmon patties.

Mixing the Ingredients

Begin by mixing dry ingredients like flour and cornmeal in a big bowl. Next, add seasoned salmon, veggies, egg, and other wet ingredients. Mix everything well until it’s fully combined. Use a ½ cup measuring cup for even portions.

Forming the Patties

Now, shape the salmon mix into patties. Make them 4 inches across and 1 inch thick. This size helps them cook evenly. Put the patties on a clean surface or plate, cover, and chill for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours).

Cooking Techniques

1. Heat ¼ cup of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Place the chilled patties in the hot oil. Cook for 8 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for 5-6 minutes more until golden and cooked through.
3. For an air fryer, preheat to 400°F. Cook the patties for 10 minutes, then flip and cook for 4-5 more minutes until crispy and fully cooked.
4. Check if the salmon cakes are cooked by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 145°F.

Follow these easy steps to make perfectly cooked, flavorful fried salmon cakes or salmon fritters. They’re ready to serve and enjoy.

Sauce Pairings and Serving Suggestions

Enjoying seafood appetizers like salmon croquettes recipe is even better with the right sauce and sides. These salmon balls go well with many sauces and sides. This lets you pick flavors you love.

Some great sauces for salmon croquettes are tartar sauce, tangy remoulade, creamy sriracha sour cream sauce, or zesty lemon aioli. For a lighter option, try a Greek yogurt dip.

For sides, salmon croquettes recipe match well with a fresh green salad, sautéed vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or rich grits. You can also make them into a sandwich or serve them on a bed of greens for a light lunch.

For a special dish, pair salmon croquettes with a tender tenderloin or a classic roast. This mix of seafood and meat creates a memorable meal.

These salmon balls are sure to please your taste buds and impress your guests. Be creative with sauces and sides to find your favorite combination.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Enjoy the delicious salmon croquettes recipe without the hassle of constant preparation. These versatile salmon patties can be stored and reheated with ease. They’re perfect for meal prepping or last-minute entertaining.

Freezing Instructions

Uncooked or cooked salmon croquettes can be frozen for up to 3-4 months. Wrap the individual patties in freezer paper, aluminum foil, or plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen salmon croquettes overnight in the refrigerator before cooking or reheating.

Reheating Methods

Leftover salmon croquettes recipe can be reheated in a variety of ways. For the best texture, use a skillet over medium heat, baking in the oven at 375°F for 8 minutes, or air frying at 380°F for 4-5 minutes until heated through and crispy.

Meal Prep Ideas

• Make a large batch of the salmon croquettes recipe and freeze the uncooked patties for future use.
• Prepare the salmon mixture in advance and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes before forming and cooking the patties.
• Cook the salmon croquettes up to 2 days ahead of time and reheat them before serving for a quick and easy meal.

With these storage and make-ahead tips, you can enjoy the convenience of homemade salmon croquettes recipe any time. No need for last-minute preparation. Savor the flavors of this classic Southern comfort food whenever you want.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

The classic salmon croquette ingredients or salmon patty mix can be customized to your liking. For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes. You can also change the texture by using breadcrumbs or crushed crackers instead of cornmeal.

Want to make your salmon croquettes gluten-free? Use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs instead. Fresh herbs like dill, thyme, or rosemary can replace cilantro for a different taste.

For a zesty flavor, add grated lemon zest to the salmon patty mix. If you’re watching your fat intake, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. Cook the patties in an air fryer with little oil.

Feel free to try different seasonings like Old Bay or smoked paprika. This way, you can make your own special version of salmon croquettes recipes!

With these simple changes, you can make your own special salmon croquette recipe. Try different flavors and ingredients to find your favorite!

Conclusion

Salmon croquettes recipes are a tasty and easy dish for any time. This salmon croquettes recipe combines a crispy outside with a soft inside. It’s perfect for quick dinners or special meals.

Using canned or fresh salmon, this fish cakes dish will win your family’s heart. Try different seasonings and ways to serve it. You can enjoy these salmon croquettes recipe as a main dish or in a sandwich.

This salmon croquettes recipe is great because it’s affordable, quick to make, and customizable. It’s a wonderful dish for any home cook. Enjoy the flavors and convenience of this Southern favorite.