Learning how to cook salmon croquettes with RecipesLace is a delicious way to bring a classic soul food recipe to your kitchen. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these golden patties are perfect for weeknight dinners, Sunday brunches, or family gatherings. Whether you use fresh salmon or pantry-friendly canned salmon, this easy recipe guarantees a satisfying bite every time.
Salmon croquettes are loved for their versatility. They can be paired with creamy sauces, fresh salads, or hearty sides, making them a crowd-pleaser across all occasions. Plus, with simple ingredients like breadcrumbs, bell peppers, and salmon, you can whip them up in under 30 minutes. For another restaurant-inspired comfort dish, try our Olive Garden Steak Gorgonzola Alfredo Recipe—a rich, creamy pasta that pairs beautifully with seafood or croquettes for a complete meal.
In this recipe, I’ll walk you through the exact steps to make the best salmon croquettes, share clever substitutions (including gluten-free options), and give you tested tips for frying them to perfection. By the end, you’ll have a recipe that balances rich flavour with a crispy crunch—and works beautifully for both quick meals and special gatherings.
How to Cook Salmon Croquettes: are golden, crispy patties made with salmon, breadcrumbs, and seasonings. Ready in about 30 minutes, they’re an easy option for quick dinners or gatherings. Learn how to make them with step-by-step instructions, substitutions, and serving ideas.
What is Salmon Croquettes?
Salmon croquettes are a beloved Southern-inspired dish that combines salmon with breadcrumbs, eggs, peppers, and seasonings to form crispy golden patties. Traditionally pan-fried until perfectly browned, they balance rich seafood flavour with a satisfying crunch. This recipe has roots in soul food cooking, where croquettes became a budget-friendly yet hearty way to serve fish.
While some families prepare them using fresh salmon, many rely on canned salmon for convenience without losing flavour. These patties are often compared to salmon cakes or salmon patties, but croquettes typically use a bit more seasoning and texture, giving them a bolder taste.
Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, How to Cook Salmon Croquettes? can be paired with everything from creamy dipping sauces to cornbread and collard greens. No matter how you serve them, they’re a timeless comfort food that fits both casual meals and festive occasions. And if you’d like to end your meal with something sweet, try our Cherry Yum Yum No-Bake Dessert—a quick and creamy treat that makes the perfect finishing touch.
Why You’ll Love This Salmon Croquettes Recipe
There’s something irresistible about biting into a crispy, golden salmon croquette with a soft and flavorful center. This recipe is quick to prepare—ready in under 30 minutes—making it perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu family dinners. You’ll love how versatile it is, working just as well with fresh salmon as with pantry-staple canned salmon.
These croquettes are also highly adaptable. You can make them gluten-free, swap herbs depending on the season, or add spices for extra warmth. Pair them with salads, roasted vegetables, or classic Southern sides like collard greens. Whether you’re cooking for comfort or elegance, these How to Cook Salmon Croquettes deliver flavour, texture, and satisfaction every time.
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Ingredients + Substitutions
Key Ingredients That Bring the Magic
One of the best things about How to Cook Salmon Croquettes is its flexibility. You can keep it classic with pantry staples or adjust based on what you have at home. Below is a breakdown of the key ingredients and some helpful substitutions:
| Ingredient | Amount | Substitution Ideas |
|---|---|---|
| Panko breadcrumbs | ½ cup | Use crushed crackers or gluten-free breadcrumbs |
| All-purpose flour | ¼ cup | Almond flour for low-carb, or oat flour for gluten-free |
| Green bell pepper | ½ chopped | Swap with celery or poblano pepper |
| Red bell pepper | ½ chopped | Use yellow/orange pepper for sweetness |
| Canned salmon | 3 (5-oz) cans, drained | Substitute fresh cooked salmon fillet |
| Garlic powder | ½ tsp | Fresh minced garlic for stronger flavor |
| Egg | 1 large, lightly beaten | Flaxseed egg (vegan option) |
| Mayonnaise | ¼ cup | Greek yogurt for a lighter swap |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1 tbsp | Soy sauce or tamari |
| Cilantro | ¼ cup chopped | Parsley, dill, or chives |
| Vegetable oil | 1–2 tbsp | Olive oil or avocado oil |
This mix ensures crispy, flavorful croquettes every time.
How to Cook Salmon Croquettes (Crispy, Golden & Flavor-Packed)
Equipment
- Mixing Bowls for combining dry ingredients, salmon mixture, and shaping patties.
- Cutting Board + Sharp Knife to chop bell peppers and herbs.
- Measuring Cups & Spoons ensure accurate ratios for binders and seasonings.
- Large Skillet or Frying Pan nonstick or cast iron works best for even browning.
- Spatula or Fish Turner helps flip patties without breaking them.
- Paper Towels & Plate to drain excess oil after frying.
- Air Fryer (Optional) for a lighter, oil-free version.
- Baking Sheet (Optional) if you prefer oven-baked croquettes.
Ingredients
- ½ cup Panko breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ green bell pepper chopped
- ½ red bell pepper chopped
- 3 5-oz cans salmon, drained
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp pepper
- 1 large egg lightly beaten
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro
- 1 –2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions
- Mix breadcrumbs and flour in a bowl.
- Add bell peppers, salmon, garlic powder, salt, pepper, egg, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, and cilantro. Stir gently.
- Shape into 6–8 patties.
- Heat oil in skillet over medium-high. Cook patties 2–3 minutes per side until golden.
- Serve hot with your favorite sides or sauces.
- Tip: For a lighter option, air fry at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
Notes
Recipe Notes
- Canned vs. Fresh Salmon: Both work—canned is budget-friendly and quick, while fresh gives a lighter, delicate flavor.
- Binding Issues: If the mixture feels too wet, add more breadcrumbs. If too dry, mix in a spoonful of mayo or Greek yogurt.
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap breadcrumbs and flour with gluten-free versions (like oat flour or almond flour).
- Oil Choice: Use vegetable, olive, or avocado oil. For a healthier version, cook in the air fryer instead of pan-frying.
- Serving Tip: Pair with creamy sauces like tartar, remoulade, or aioli for a flavor boost.
- Make Ahead: Shape patties up to 24 hours ahead, cover tightly, and refrigerate until ready to fry.
- Reheating Tip: Avoid the microwave; reheat in a skillet, oven, or air fryer for best crispiness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix the dry base (2 minutes).
In a large bowl, combine ½ cup Panko breadcrumbs with ¼ cup all-purpose flour. This forms the crisp foundation for your croquettes. - Add the flavor builders (5 minutes).
Toss in ½ chopped green bell pepper, ½ chopped red bell pepper, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. These veggies add sweetness and crunch, while the seasoning balances the salmon’s natural richness. - Incorporate the salmon and binders (5 minutes).
Add the drained canned salmon, 1 lightly beaten egg, ¼ cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, and ¼ cup chopped cilantro. Mix everything together until just combined—don’t overmix, or the patties may turn dense. - Shape the patties (5 minutes).
Divide the mixture into 6–8 equal portions and shape into patties about ½–¾ inch thick. Keeping them uniform ensures even cooking. If the mix feels too wet, add an extra tablespoon of breadcrumbs. - Heat the skillet (2 minutes).
Warm 1–2 tablespoons vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Test by sprinkling a breadcrumb—if it sizzles, the oil is ready. - Pan-fry the croquettes (6–8 minutes).
Cook patties for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan—work in batches if needed. Place finished croquettes on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Tip: For lighter results, try air-frying at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
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Variations & Serving Ideas
One of the best parts about learning how to Cook Salmon Croquettes is how easily you can adapt them. While the classic recipe is already delicious, small tweaks can transform the flavour and presentation.
Protein Variations: If you’re exploring how to Cook Salmon Croquettes with fresh salmon, simply bake or poach a fillet, flake it, and use it in place of canned. For a lighter twist, try tuna or crab—both give a new dimension.
Seasonal Flavours: Another great thing about mastering how to Cook Salmon Croquettes is experimenting with herbs and spices. In summer, brighten them with dill, lemon zest, or basil, while in colder months, smoked paprika, cumin, or cayenne add comfort.
Texture Upgrades: Want extra crunch? Before frying, coat the patties in Panko. If you’re aiming for healthier results, air fry or oven-bake. These methods prove that How to Cook Salmon Croquettes doesn’t always require pan-frying.
Serving Ideas: How to Cook Salmon Croquettes shines when paired with creamy sauces like tartar, remoulade, or garlic aioli. For sides, soul food classics such as collard greens, cornbread, or mac and cheese work perfectly. If you’re keeping it light, serve them with salads or roasted veggies.
Creative Touches: Once you know how to Cook Salmon Croquettes, you can make mini versions for sliders, add them to grain bowls, or pair them with poached eggs for brunch. These variations showcase how flexible the recipe can be.
With all these options, How to Cook Salmon Croquettes can go from an easy weeknight dinner to a festive centrepiece.
Storage & Make-Ahead
One big perk of How to Cook Salmon Croquettes is how well they keep, making them perfect for meal prep. After cooking, let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container lined with parchment to prevent sticking. They’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, how to Cook Salmon Croquettes for freezing is simple. Arrange cooked patties in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. This prevents clumping and keeps them fresh for up to 2 months.
When reheating, skip the microwave—it can make them soggy. Instead, reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of oil for a few minutes per side, or warm them in the oven at 375°F for 10–12 minutes. If air-fried, they regain crispiness without excess oil, keeping the same great texture you achieved when you first learned how to Cook Salmon Croquettes.
To make ahead, simply prepare the mixture and shape it into patties. Arrange the uncooked croquettes on a parchment-lined tray or plate, then cover tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, and when ready, fry as directed for fresh, crispy results. This trick is especially handy if you’re hosting or cooking multiple dishes at once and want to save time mastering how to Cook Salmon Croquettes in advance.
Nutrition Facts
How to Cook Salmon Croquettes? They are not only flavorful but also provide a nutrient-rich meal. Packed with protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins, they balance indulgence with health benefits. Here’s the approximate breakdown per serving (1 croquette, based on 6 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 kcal |
| Protein | 16 g |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1 g |
| Total Fat | 12 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | 1.2 g |
| Cholesterol | 55 mg |
| Sodium | 420 mg |
| Sugars | <1 g |
| Vitamin D | 12% DV |
| Iron | 8% DV |
These croquettes are naturally rich in heart-healthy omega-3s thanks to salmon, making them a smarter choice compared to many fried foods. If you’re aiming for lighter results, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise and try air-frying instead of pan-frying—another simple way to master how to Cook Salmon Croquettes with a healthier twist.
For more on the health benefits of salmon and omega-3s, check out this Healthline guide.
Tested Notes
This recipe has been thoroughly tested to guarantee reliable, delicious results every time you make it. The most recent retest was done on August 15, 2025, with adjustments to balance moisture and crispiness. Using both Panko breadcrumbs and flour ensures the patties stay intact without drying out—an essential trick when mastering how to Cook Salmon Croquettes.
We also verified that canned salmon works just as well as fresh, making this dish both budget-friendly and convenient. Another tip for those learning how to Cook Salmon Croquettes is that the air fryer at 375°F for 12 minutes (flipping halfway) delivers a crispy, golden finish with less oil.
Overall, these tweaks guarantee consistency and flavour for anyone perfecting how to Cook Salmon Croquettes at home.
dateModified: 2025-08-15
About the Author
👩🍳 Emily Grace is a passionate home cook and recipe developer who specialises in creating approachable comfort food with a modern twist. She believes that great meals don’t have to be complicated, and her recipes focus on flavour, practicality, and family-friendly appeal.
Emily grew up surrounded by soulful Southern cooking and now blends those traditions with healthier, creative approaches for today’s busy kitchens. From How to Cook Salmon Croquettes to decadent desserts, she loves sharing dishes that bring people together around the table.
When she’s not testing recipes, Emily enjoys gardening, food photography, and exploring new flavours from global cuisines. Her goal is to inspire confidence in home cooks everywhere—one recipe at a time.
Follow more of Emily’s tested recipes and kitchen tips on RecipesLace.
How to cook croquettes?
Croquettes are typically shaped into patties, coated in a light breading, and pan-fried until golden brown. For this salmon version, simply mix the salmon with seasonings and binders, shape into patties, and cook in oil for 2–3 minutes per side.
What are the ingredients for salmon croquettes?
Traditional salmon croquettes use salmon, breadcrumbs, flour, eggs, mayonnaise, bell peppers, and seasonings. You can adjust with substitutions like gluten-free breadcrumbs, Greek yogurt instead of mayo, or fresh herbs for seasonal flavour.
What temperature should salmon patties be cooked at?
On the stovetop, medium-high heat ensures a crispy crust without burning. In the air fryer or oven, cook at 375°F until heated through and golden, about 10–12 minutes.
What is the difference between salmon croquettes and salmon patties?
They’re very similar, but croquettes usually contain more seasoning, vegetables, and a lighter texture, while salmon patties may be simpler with just salmon, egg, and breadcrumbs.
What goes well with salmon croquettes?
Classic pairings include collard greens, mac and cheese, cornbread, or creamy grits. For lighter meals, try a green salad, roasted asparagus, or a lemony quinoa bowl. Check out our easy collard greens recipe for inspiration.
Are salmon croquettes healthy?
Yes—salmon is packed with protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin D. For a lighter option, bake or air-fry the croquettes instead of pan-frying. Learn more from Harvard’s nutrition insights on omega-3s.
Can I use canned salmon instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Canned salmon is convenient and budget-friendly, while fresh salmon gives a more delicate flavor. Both work well in this recipe.
Can I make salmon croquettes in the air fryer?
Yes—air fry at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway. This method yields a crispy exterior with less oil.
How do you reheat salmon croquettes?
Reheat in a skillet with a drizzle of oil, in the oven at 375°F for 10 minutes, or in the air fryer for 6–7 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the crispiness.
Quick Recap / Key Takeaways
- How to Cook Salmon Croquettes are crispy, golden patties made with salmon, breadcrumbs, and seasonings.
- You can use canned or fresh salmon—both deliver delicious results.
- The patties cook quickly: 2–3 minutes per side in a skillet or 10–12 minutes in the air fryer.
- Versatile substitutions (gluten-free breadcrumbs, Greek yogurt, fresh herbs) make this recipe adaptable for different diets.
- Pair with Southern sides like collard greens, cornbread, or mac and cheese, or keep it light with salads and roasted veggies.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months; reheat in the oven or air fryer for best texture.
- Rich in protein, omega-3s, and vitamins, these croquettes are a wholesome comfort food option.
With just a handful of pantry staples and 30 minutes, you can enjoy this classic soul food dish at home.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to cook salmon croquettes, you can bring this crispy, golden comfort food to your table any night of the week. With just a few pantry staples and under 30 minutes, these patties deliver bold flavour and versatility—perfect for both casual family dinners and special gatherings. Whether you choose canned salmon for convenience or fresh salmon for a gourmet touch, the results are always satisfying.
Don’t forget to explore our other Southern-inspired favourites like buttermilk cornbread, collard greens, and mac and cheese to complete your meal. Try the recipe today and enjoy a dish that’s as nostalgic as it is nourishing—and now you know exactly how to Cook Salmon Croquettes at home.
