Salmon croquettes are a comforting, flavorful dish that brings together crispy golden crust and savory, tender salmon filling. Loved across generations and cultures, they are simple to prepare yet packed with taste. Whether served as a main course, appetizer, or side dish, the best salmon croquette recipe offers a perfect balance of texture, spice, and richness. You can use canned salmon or fresh cooked fillets, making them versatile and budget-friendly. Ideal for family dinners or special gatherings, salmon croquettes are a timeless addition to any home cook’s recipe collection.
Ingredients for the Best Salmon Croquette Recipe
Main Ingredients
The base of any great salmon croquette starts with quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 can (1415 oz) of salmon, drained and bones removed (or use 1½ cups cooked flaked fresh salmon)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/3 cup finely chopped green bell pepper (optional for crunch and color)
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley or green onions
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs (plus more for coating)
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Frying
- Vegetable oil, canola oil, or light olive oil for shallow frying
- Extra breadcrumbs or cornmeal for outer coating
Instructions for Making Salmon Croquettes
Step 1: Prepare the Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, add the drained salmon and break it apart with a fork. If using canned salmon, make sure to remove any skin and large bones, though many bones are soft and edible. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, parsley, and seasonings. Mix in the eggs, mayonnaise, mustard, and breadcrumbs. Use a fork or your hands to combine everything until the mixture is evenly mixed and holds together when pressed.
Step 2: Form the Patties
Scoop about 2 to 3 tablespoons of the mixture and shape into a ball or flattened patty, depending on your preference. You should get about 8 to 10 croquettes, depending on the size. Lightly coat each croquette in extra breadcrumbs or cornmeal for a crispier exterior.
Step 3: Fry Until Golden
Heat about 1/4 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot (but not smoking), gently place the croquettes in the pan. Do not overcrowd. Fry for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Use a spatula to carefully flip. Once done, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 4: Serve Hot
Salmon croquettes are best served hot and crispy. Pair them with a dipping sauce, fresh lemon wedges, or over a bed of greens. They can also be served with rice, mashed potatoes, or in a sandwich bun as a delicious fish burger.
Tips for Perfect Salmon Croquettes
Use Fresh or Canned Salmon
Both options work well. Fresh salmon gives a lighter, flakier result, while canned salmon offers convenience and a more traditional Southern-style texture. If using fresh, make sure it’s fully cooked and flaked before mixing.
Don’t Overmix
To keep your croquettes tender and not dense, avoid overmixing the ingredients. Gently fold until just combined.
Chill Before Frying
If the mixture feels too soft or sticky, chill the patties in the fridge for 2030 minutes before frying. This helps them hold their shape better in the pan.
Bake Instead of Fry
For a healthier version, bake the croquettes in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 2025 minutes, flipping halfway through. Spray them lightly with oil to help them crisp up.
Delicious Sauce Pairings
Classic Remoulade Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon chopped capers or pickles
- 1 teaspoon paprika
Mix together and chill before serving with croquettes.
Lemon Dill Yogurt Sauce
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- Salt and pepper to taste
A light and refreshing sauce that pairs well with the rich salmon flavor.
Serving Suggestions
For a Main Course
- Serve with mashed potatoes and sautéed green beans.
- Add a side of coleslaw or a fresh garden salad.
- Include rice pilaf or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
As an Appetizer
- Make smaller bite-size croquettes and serve with dipping sauce.
- Arrange on a platter with lemon wedges and pickled vegetables.
For Brunch or Lunch
- Place croquettes on an English muffin with poached eggs for a twist on eggs Benedict.
- Serve in a sandwich with lettuce, tomato, and tartar sauce.
How to Store and Reheat
Refrigeration
Store leftover croquettes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat or bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Avoid the microwave to maintain their crispiness.
Freezing
Freeze uncooked or cooked croquettes for later. Place them on a tray to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Cook from frozen by baking or pan-frying on medium heat until hot in the center.
Custom Variations to Try
Spicy Salmon Croquettes
Add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a finely chopped jalapeño to the mix for extra heat. Pair with a spicy sriracha mayo dip.
Southern-Style Croquettes
Use cornmeal in place of breadcrumbs and add a dash of Old Bay seasoning for a Southern twist. Serve with collard greens and sweet potatoes.
Herbed Mediterranean Version
Incorporate chopped olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh herbs like oregano and basil. Serve with tzatziki and pita bread.
The best salmon croquette recipe brings together a flavorful blend of ingredients, crisp texture, and irresistible aroma. Easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying, these croquettes make a perfect dish for any occasion from casual family meals to elegant appetizers. With simple variations, creative sauces, and thoughtful sides, you can tailor the recipe to your taste. Whether you fry, bake, or freeze them for later, salmon croquettes will quickly become a go-to comfort food that’s both nourishing and delicious. Give them a try and discover how something so simple can be so unforgettable.