1. Home
  2. Recipes
  3. Salmon Croquettes

Salmon Croquettes Recipe

Featured in Fish Made Simple.

Salmon croquettes are a quick and delicious meal option using canned or fresh salmon. With minimal prep and basic ingredients like peppers, mayo, and breadcrumbs, these croquettes are golden and crispy on the outside and tender inside. You can fry them for a classic finish or bake for a lighter version. They're perfect for weeknights, meal prepping, or impressing guests with something that's both simple and flavorful. Serve with tartar sauce, lemon wedges, or aioli for extra flavor. These croquettes are always a crowd-pleaser and incredibly versatile.
Soo Ben
Updated on Wed, 26 Mar 2025 06:04:10 GMT
Print Recipe Pin Recipe Send Recipe Jump To Recipe
Salmon Croquettes Recipe Pin it
Salmon Croquettes Recipe | mamamiakitchen.com

Ever made salmon croquettes that fell apart, tasted bland, or lacked that crispy, golden finish? This recipe tackles all the common mistakes and helps you create salmon croquettes that are flavorful, perfectly crisp, and tender on the inside. Whether you're new to making them or just want a foolproof upgrade, this guide covers every step clearly.

Ingredients

  • 16 oz cooked salmon flakes: or three 5-oz cans of salmon, well drained and flaked
  • 1 large egg: lightly beaten
  • ½ cup Panko breadcrumbs: for binding and crispiness
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour: optional, for extra structure
  • ¼ cup mayonnaise: adds moisture and richness
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: for umami depth
  • ½ green bell pepper: finely chopped
  • ½ red bell pepper: finely chopped
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder: seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon salt: flavor enhancer
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper: for mild heat
  • ¼ cup chopped cilantro: or substitute parsley or dill
  • Avocado oil: for frying

Instructions

Delicious Salmon Croquettes Recipe Pin it
Delicious Salmon Croquettes Recipe | mamamiakitchen.com
Step 1:
Measure all ingredients before beginning. This makes assembly easier and prevents missing anything.
Step 2:
For fresh salmon: Let it cool slightly, then flake with a fork. For canned salmon: Drain well, remove any skin or bones, and flake gently with a fork.
Step 3:
In a large bowl, whisk together the Panko breadcrumbs and flour.
Step 4:
In another bowl, combine the salmon, egg, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, chopped peppers, seasonings, and herbs. Mix gently.
Step 5:
Fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Mix just until combined. The texture should be moist but moldable. If too wet, add a little more Panko.
Step 6:
Refrigerate the mixture for 15 to 20 minutes to help it firm up. This makes shaping and frying easier.
Step 7:
Using damp hands, form into evenly sized balls or patties.
Step 8:
In a skillet, heat avocado oil over medium-high heat to approximately 350°F (175°C). Test with a breadcrumb—if it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready.
Step 9:
Place the croquettes in hot oil in batches. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.

Baking Option

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet. Arrange croquettes and bake for 10–12 minutes per side. For extra crispiness, brush with oil or butter before baking.

Sauce Pairings

  • Creamy Options: Tartar sauce, Lemon aioli, Classic remoulade
  • Zesty and Spicy: Sriracha mayo, Dill yogurt sauce, Chipotle aioli
  • Global Flavors: Tzatziki, Tonkatsu sauce, Mango chutney

Tips for Success

  • Types of Salmon: Canned (convenient), Fresh (flaked after cooling), Smoked (strong flavor, use sparingly)
  • Binding Options: Use extra breadcrumbs or mashed potatoes. For egg-free, use flax egg or extra mayo.
  • Flavor Boosters: Herbs like dill, parsley, or chives; spices like cayenne or curry powder; mix-ins like Dijon mustard or capers.
Homemade Salmon Croquettes Recipe Pin it
Homemade Salmon Croquettes Recipe | mamamiakitchen.com

Storage

  • Refrigerator: Store in airtight container lined with paper towels for 3–4 days.
  • Freezer: Flash freeze, then transfer to freezer-safe bag. Freeze up to 3–4 months.

Reheating Instructions

  • Oven: Reheat at 350°F for 10–15 minutes. Flip halfway.
  • Skillet: Lightly oil and heat each side a few minutes.
  • Air Fryer: 375°F for 5–8 minutes. Flip halfway and spray oil for crispiness.

Common Issues and Fixes

  • Falling Apart: Add breadcrumbs, chill the mixture, use hot oil.
  • Mushy Texture: Drain salmon, don’t overmix.
  • Dry Croquettes: Ensure enough mayo, avoid overcooking.

Serving Ideas

  • Salads: Green salad, Greek salad, coleslaw, potato salad
  • Vegetables: Roasted carrots, spinach, green beans
  • Starches: Mashed potatoes, rice, mac and cheese, dinner rolls

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?
Yes, just cook and flake it before adding to the mixture.
→ How do I keep croquettes from falling apart?
Make sure the mixture holds its shape; add more breadcrumbs if needed.
→ Can these be baked instead of fried?
Absolutely! Bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
→ Can I make them ahead?
Yes, shape and chill the patties in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.
→ What can I serve them with?
They go great with dipping sauces like tartar, lemon aioli, or a side salad.

Salmon Croquettes

Easy salmon croquettes made with pantry staples.

Prep Time
5 Minutes
Cook Time
10 Minutes
Total Time
15 Minutes
By: Sou

Category: Seafood

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: American

Yield: 6 Servings

Dietary: Dairy-Free

Ingredients

→ Dry Ingredients

01 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs
02 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
03 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
04 1/2 teaspoon salt
05 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

→ Wet Ingredients

06 15 oz salmon flakes (or 3 cans of 5-oz canned salmon, drained and flaked)
07 1/2 green bell pepper, cubed
08 1/2 red bell pepper, cubed
09 1 egg, lightly beaten
10 1/4 cup mayonnaise
11 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
12 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
13 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

Step 01

Gather and measure all ingredients. Flake the salmon using forks and ensure it's bone-free if canned.

Step 02

In a large bowl, combine Panko, flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Step 03

In another bowl, mix salmon, bell peppers, egg, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, cilantro, and olive oil.

Step 04

Fold the wet ingredients into the dry until just combined. Mixture should be moist but hold its shape. Add breadcrumbs if needed.

Step 05

Lightly wet your hands, form the mixture into balls or patties of even size.

Step 06

Heat oil in a skillet to 350°F. Fry croquettes for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.

Step 07

Preheat oven to 400°F. Grease a baking sheet and bake croquettes for 10–12 minutes per side or until golden brown. Optional: brush with oil or butter for crispiness.

Step 08

Let cool slightly before serving. Serve with tartar sauce, lemon aioli, or your favorite dip.

Notes

  1. You can refrigerate the mixture for 15–20 minutes for easier shaping.
  2. Check internal temperature to reach 165°F for doneness.
  3. Canned or fresh salmon both work well, just ensure it's flaked and drained.
  4. Add more breadcrumbs if the mix feels too wet.

Tools You'll Need

  • Mixing bowls
  • Skillet (for frying) or baking sheet (for baking)
  • Slotted spoon or spatula
  • Paper towels

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Eggs
  • Fish
  • Gluten (breadcrumbs, flour)

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 242
  • Total Fat: 15 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 10 g
  • Protein: 17 g