Scrumptious Salmon Cakes Recipe

Name: Scrumptious Salmon Cakes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 2 (14.75 ounce) cans salmon, drained and flaked; 0.75 cup Italian-seasoned panko (Japanese bread crumbs); 0.5 cup minced fresh parsley; 2 eggs, beaten; 2 green onions, chopped; 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce; 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard; 2 tablespoons creamy salad dressing (such as Miracle Whip®); 2 teaspoons seafood seasoning (such as Old Bay®); 1.5 teaspoons garlic powder; 1.5 teaspoons ground black pepper; 1 tablespoon olive oil, or as needed, divided

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Salmon Patties Recipe

Ingredients

2 (14.75 ounce) cans salmon, drained and flaked
cup Italian-seasoned panko bread crumbs
cup minced fresh parsley
2 large eggs, beaten
2 green onions, chopped
3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce (or to taste)
3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (or to taste)
2 tablespoons creamy salad dressing (such as Miracle Whip)
2 teaspoons seafood seasoning (such as Old Bay)
1 teaspoons garlic powder (or to taste)
1 teaspoons ground black pepper (or to taste)
1 tablespoon olive oil, or as needed, divided

Directions

Gather all ingredients before you begin.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the salmon, panko bread crumbs, minced parsley, beaten eggs, chopped green onions, Worcestershire sauce, grated Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, creamy salad dressing, seafood seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir until the mixture is well combined.
Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions and shape each portion into a patty.
Heat enough olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat to cover the cooking surface.
Fry the salmon patties in batches, cooking for 5 to 7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Add more olive oil to the skillet as needed for subsequent batches.
Once all patties are cooked, remove them from the skillet and drain any excess oil.
Serve the salmon patties hot and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories: 263
Total Fat: 12g (16% Daily Value)
Saturated Fat: 3g (14% Daily Value)
Cholesterol: 95mg (32% Daily Value)
Sodium: 782mg (34% Daily Value)
Total Carbohydrate: 11g (4% Daily Value)
Dietary Fiber: 0g (1% Daily Value)
Total Sugars: 2g
Protein: 28g (56% Daily Value)
Vitamin C: 7mg (7% Daily Value)
Calcium: 273mg (21% Daily Value)
Iron: 2mg (9% Daily Value)
Potassium: 409mg (9% Daily Value)

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Scrumptious Salmon Cakes Recipe

Salmon cakes, also known as salmon patties or croquettes, are a popular dish that brings together the rich, savory flavors of salmon and the crispiness of a well-cooked patty. The Scrumptious Salmon Cakes recipe is an easy, delicious, and economical meal that highlights the versatility of canned salmon. Here, we dive into the history, regional variations, and interesting facts about this beloved dish.

History of Salmon Cakes

The origins of salmon cakes can be traced back to various fishing communities around the world. In the United States, the recipe likely emerged in the late 19th century, especially in coastal regions where salmon was plentiful. It became a staple for many families, offering a way to make the most of canned fish, which was both affordable and accessible. The use of canned salmon in particular made it a practical choice during wartime or economic downturns, providing an easy-to-make yet nutritious meal. Over time, the recipe evolved, with many adding their personal twists and regional touches.

Regional Variations

While the basic ingredients of salmon cakes remain largely the same, different regions have put their spin on this dish. In the Southern United States, for example, it's common to add a bit of hot sauce or paprika, giving the cakes a spicy kick. In the Pacific Northwest, where fresh wild-caught salmon is abundant, locals might prefer using fresh salmon instead of canned, enhancing the flavor and texture of the cakes. Meanwhile, in Scandinavian countries, a similar dish known as laxbullar is popular, often flavored with dill and served with a creamy mustard sauce.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

Salmon cakes are often compared to other seafood cakes, such as crab cakes or fish cakes, but there are some key differences. The most notable is the choice of fish. While crab cakes typically use crab meat and fish cakes can use any variety of fish, salmon cakes use salmon, which imparts a distinct flavor. Additionally, salmon cakes are often flavored with a variety of seasonings such as Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and Old Bay seasoning, while crab cakes might use more subtle seasonings like lemon and herbs. Another difference is that salmon cakes often feature panko breadcrumbs, which create a crispier texture compared to traditional fish cakes made with regular breadcrumbs.

Where Are Salmon Cakes Usually Served?

Salmon cakes are a versatile dish that can be served in various settings. They are a popular choice for home cooks looking for a quick dinner, often paired with side dishes like coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. They're also commonly found on restaurant menus, particularly in seafood restaurants, and are served as an appetizer or a main course. In the United States, they are often enjoyed as a comfort food for casual family meals or gatherings. On the West Coast, fresh salmon cakes are sometimes served with a tangy dill sauce or avocado slices to highlight the freshness of the fish.

Interesting Facts

Salmon is considered one of the healthiest fish due to its high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health.
Salmon cakes are a great way to use up leftover salmon or canned salmon, making them an economical choice for budget-conscious families.
The dish can easily be customized by adding different herbs and spices or swapping ingredients, such as using gluten-free breadcrumbs or adding bell peppers for extra crunch.
Salmon cakes are sometimes made with a variety of fish in different regions, with recipes using trout, tuna, or even haddock.

Conclusion

Whether made with fresh or canned salmon, the Scrumptious Salmon Cakes recipe is a delicious and practical way to enjoy this flavorful fish. It's a dish that has stood the test of time, adapting to various tastes and regional preferences. Whether you serve them as a quick weeknight dinner or as a savory appetizer for guests, salmon cakes remain a beloved staple in kitchens around the world.

FAQ about Scrumptious Salmon Cakes Recipe

You can store leftover salmon cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until warmed through, or you can heat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

Yes, you can freeze the salmon cakes. To freeze, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, reheat them directly from the freezer in a skillet or oven.

Yes, you can use fresh salmon instead of canned. Just cook the salmon beforehand, flake it, and follow the recipe as directed. Using fresh salmon may give the cakes a fresher, more delicate flavor.

If you don't have panko breadcrumbs, you can substitute regular breadcrumbs or even crushed crackers. Some people use gluten-free breadcrumbs, cornmeal, or even crushed-up stale bread for a different texture.

To make these salmon cakes gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or a mixture of cornmeal and gluten-free all-purpose flour. Make sure to use a gluten-free creamy salad dressing and check that all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Yes, you can prepare the salmon cakes ahead of time. After forming the patties, refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. This makes them easier to handle and may enhance the flavor as the ingredients have time to meld.

If you prefer a spicier version of these salmon cakes, you can add hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or increase the amount of black pepper or Old Bay seasoning. Adjust the seasoning to your taste.

Salmon cakes pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or a tangy dipping sauce like tartar sauce or aioli. Some also enjoy them with pasta, rice, or even on a bun as a sandwich.

If your salmon cakes are falling apart, it may help to add a bit more binder like breadcrumbs or an extra egg to the mixture. Chilling the patties in the fridge for about 30 minutes before cooking can also help them hold together better.

Yes, you can adjust the flavor of these salmon cakes. For example, you can experiment with different herbs like dill or basil, or add more seasoning like garlic powder or lemon zest to suit your tastes.

Comments

Kris Hodges

10/06/2025 01:52:54 PM

A little spicy but very good. I halved the recipe because I'm the only one in the house that will eat salmon and I love it. Needed some tartar sauce to tame the spiciness. I'll be reducing the black pepper and Old Bay next time because I like my salmon patties a little milder. Nice recipe though and will most likely make again. Thanks Judiebug!

GlitzyCorn5786

04/20/2024 07:10:46 PM

This was a great recipe. I did tweak it a little, but mainly only because I had a piece and a half of salmon leftover. I used salmon I made yesterday and chopped it in chopper. Added the dijon, Worcestershire sauce, mayo, scallions, diced up peppers, a little old Bay, paprika, salt and pepper. Used regular breadcrumbs because I didn't have Panko. I airfried it for 11 minutes at 390 and they came out great. Ate them with tartar sauce. Thanks for the recipe!

Nancy Motto

07/04/2020 07:52:16 PM

Delicious and easy. I only had one can of salmon so had to adjust ingredients a bit. No panko so used crumbs I had saved from stale loaf of Italian bread. I made them early in the day and refrigerated for about an hour which I think made them easier to handle. Also rolled in dry bread crumbs before cooking. Like one other reviewer I added a bit of butter to oil to get crispier outside. Had over spaghetti with butter and parmeson cheese. Side dish of watermelon/blueberry salad.

ana

03/20/2021 04:00:14 PM

Delicious! Formed the salmon cakes in the morning, covered and refrigerated them until dinner time. Took another reader's suggestion and coated them in Panko before frying. We made a tartar sauce to serve with. Easy, elegant, economical, and a definite keeper!!!

DREGINEK

02/20/2023 12:54:45 AM

Wow!!! My husband is EXTREMELY picky when it comes to salmon - much less from a can, but - we had ourselves two cans “gifted” to us and I needed to figure out what to make with them. Found this. Because of my “fear,” halved except used 1/2c panko. One can/halving the recipe resulted in 7 patties for us. Fried in our cast iron. This! Was! AWESOME! Dipped in tartar but would like to make an aioli next time. Husband ate 3 patties! 😳 They were that good and he was surprised this came from a can! Would absolutely make again! Stellar recipe Judiebug!! Thank you!

Deb K

07/22/2023 06:41:55 PM

Used Italian bread crumbs, then used the Panko and dredged them in it and fried, made the outside more crispy.

Mona Cook

04/07/2020 07:58:39 PM

My husband wanted this because my MIL made it when he was a kid. However, this recipe is way more involved than what she made. I called her and she used inexpensive canned tuna, onion, egg, black pepper, and crushed saltine crackers - nothing else. I kept her on the phone as I tried her recipe and they really were actually much better and a lot easier to make.

Hanny Manny

04/21/2020 02:25:49 AM

Used fresh cooked salmon and less seasoning based on the reviews. Decreased Old Bay to 1 1/2 tsp., garlic powder to 1/2 tsp., no parsley, 1/2 tsp. pepper, 1 Tbsp. Worcestershire, and plain Panko breadcrumbs. Sautéed chopped onion, celery and yellow bell pepper (about 1/4 to 1/2 c. of each), cooled and added to the mix. It was so delicious! If I ever have leftover salmon I know what I’m making!

GentleStew9607

12/27/2023 12:03:09 PM

I roasted fresh salmon and then flaked and used instead of canned. Over the top!

Diedra

05/04/2020 12:11:04 AM

We just adore this recipe!!! The only changes we made was we substituted 1 1/2 pound of fresh salmon for canned and cut the old bay in half. We have made this for countless friends and they all keep asking for the recipe!

R Hench

07/24/2020 01:25:30 AM

Added a tblspoon of Old Bay Hot Sauce to the mix, along with thin sliced celery (including the leafy green tops) - Excellent recipe!

Everett Martin

07/20/2025 03:18:25 PM

I love this recipe, but will make two edits: I would add celery seed, and for the 1/2 recipe, add a second egg, because they fell apart using only one.

SunnySalt3090

05/14/2025 10:48:07 PM

Outstanding flavors! I had Atlantic Pink salmon on hand ( cheaper and lower calorie)- a keeper for sure !!

OldHash3641

05/12/2025 03:51:23 PM

I did half salmon and half lump crab! Delicious!

Lisa Flores

05/04/2025 12:55:14 AM

Made it with what I had in my fridge — turned out amazing.

terrib962

05/02/2025 05:14:37 AM

To make Gluten-free, use corn meal or combo of corn meal and GF All-purpose flour. Avoid the mayo as it has "seed oils" and very unhealthy. Add chopped onion, and delete parm cheese. This is one of my pantry-staple throw together quick meals made often.

ModestLamb1560

04/23/2025 09:43:07 PM

Instead of panko crumbs I used chopped pumpernickel bread.

BlueHen2589

03/26/2025 01:27:05 AM

Easier than I thought it would be, and a great way to use up extra salmon! We used leftover BBQ salmon instead of canned. Amazing!

FluffyDish3012

03/23/2025 09:58:25 PM

My family eats gluten-free so this recipe worked extremely well with gluten-free panko crumbs. The cakes were juicy and flavorful! Great way to use up those salmon cans in the cupboard :)

CalmScale4123

03/13/2025 07:53:22 PM

I used creamy style salad dressing for my seasoning.

Cook Time: 12 minutes

Scrumptious Salmon Cakes Recipe