Southern Salmon Croquettes Recipe

Try This Zesty Southern Salmon Croquettes Recipe Today!

Southern salmon croquettes blend coastal traditions with hearty comfort, representing a delightful culinary fusion of flavors and textures.

These crispy golden delicacies convert humble ingredients into an extraordinary dining experience.

Seafood enthusiasts appreciate the delicate balance between tender fish and perfectly seasoned breading.

Rich maritime heritage infuses every bite with memories of southern kitchens and family gatherings.

Flaky salmon mixed with carefully selected herbs creates a mouthwatering profile that resonates with classic southern cooking.

Skilled home cooks understand how simple ingredients can elevate a modest meal into something extraordinary.

The magic happens when humble components merge into a delectable creation that sparks conversation and brings people together.

Great Pairings for Southern Salmon Croquettes

  • Boost Flavor with Zesty Sauce Pairing: Whip up a tangy remoulade or classic tartar sauce to complement the crispy salmon croquettes, adding a bright, creamy contrast to the savory patties.
  • Perfect Wine Companion: Select a crisp, light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to cut through the richness of the fried croquettes and enhance the seafood's delicate flavor.
  • Southern-Style Side Kick: Serve alongside creamy coleslaw or a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the croquettes' richness and add a refreshing crunch to the meal.
  • Cool Beverage Match: Pair with an ice-cold glass of sweet tea or a citrus-infused sparkling water to refresh the palate and complement the Southern-style cooking method.

Salmon Croquette Flavor Variations You’ll Enjoy

  • Spicy Cajun Salmon Patties: Kick up the heat by adding cayenne pepper, hot sauce, and diced jalapeños to the mixture. Serve with a cool, creamy Creole-style rémoulade for a balanced flavor profile.
  • Mediterranean-Inspired Salmon Cakes: Incorporate crumbled feta cheese, chopped kalamata olives, and fresh dill into the salmon mixture. Top with a zesty tzatziki sauce for a Greek-inspired twist.
  • Herb-Crusted Salmon Fritters: Coat the patties in a blend of panko breadcrumbs mixed with dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, and parsley before frying. Pair with a light lemon-herb aioli for extra brightness.
  • Asian Fusion Salmon Croquettes: Add ginger, green onions, and a splash of soy sauce to the mixture. Serve with a tangy sriracha-mayo dipping sauce and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an Eastern-inspired experience.

Why Southern Salmon Croquettes Are Crispy, Savory Comfort Food

  • Savor Southern Comfort: These salmon croquettes deliver classic Southern home-cooking with an irresistible crispy exterior and tender, flavorful interior that transports you straight to a cozy kitchen.
  • Quick and Easy Weeknight Wonder: Whip up these delightful patties in under 30 minutes using simple pantry ingredients, making them perfect for busy families craving a delicious protein-packed meal without complicated techniques.
  • Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Adaptable to multiple serving styles, these croquettes shine as an appetizer, main course, or party snack, complemented beautifully by tangy sauces and fresh sides that enhance their robust flavor profile.
  • Nutritious Seafood Delight: Packed with protein from canned salmon, enriched with colorful bell peppers and herbs, these croquettes offer a healthier alternative to traditional fried dishes while maintaining maximum taste satisfaction.

Ingredients for Classic Southern Salmon Croquettes

Seafood Base:
  • Canned Salmon: Rich in protein and omega-3, wild-caught salmon provides the primary flavor and texture for the croquettes.
Dry Ingredients:
  • Flour, Cornmeal: These dry ingredients create a crispy golden exterior and help bind the croquettes together.
Aromatic Vegetables:
  • Red Bell Pepper, Sweet Onion: Fresh vegetables add color, sweetness, and a subtle crunch to enhance the salmon's flavor.
Binding and Seasoning:
  • Egg, Mayonnaise: Helps hold the croquettes together and adds richness and moisture.
  • Worcestershire Sauce, Seasoned Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder: Provides depth of flavor and classic Southern seasoning profile.
Herb Accent:
  • Cilantro: Fresh herb adds brightness and a vibrant green color to the croquettes.
Cooking Fat:
  • Olive Oil: High-quality oil for frying, creates a crisp and golden exterior for the croquettes.

How to Fry Golden, Crispy Salmon Patties

Step 1: Create Delicious Salmon Blend

In a large mixing bowl, combine all ingredients:
  • Crumble salmon into fine flakes
  • Whisk flour and cornmeal
  • Chop red bell pepper and onion finely
  • Add Worcestershire sauce
  • Sprinkle seasoned salt, pepper, and garlic powder
  • Mix in mayonnaise and chopped cilantro
  • Incorporate beaten egg

Stir ingredients until they form a unified, smooth mixture.

Step 2: Shape Mouthwatering Patties

Use clean hands to craft 6-8 uniform salmon patties. Gently press ingredients together to ensure each patty holds its shape without crumbling.

Step 3: Sizzle Golden Croquettes

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place patties in hot oil. Cook 2-3 minutes per side until exterior turns crispy and golden brown.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer hot croquettes to serving plate. Accompany with tartar sauce, remoulade, or fresh lemon wedges. Pair with green salad or classic Southern side dishes for a complete meal.

Tips for Moist Inside and Crunchy Outside Croquettes

  • Drain Salmon Thoroughly: Press canned salmon between paper towels to remove excess moisture, ensuring crispy and well-formed croquettes that won't fall apart during cooking.
  • Bind with Care: Use mayonnaise and egg as binding agents to help the patties hold their shape and create a smooth, cohesive mixture that won't crumble in the pan.
  • Control Oil Temperature: Maintain medium-high heat and watch for a slight shimmer in the oil to achieve a golden-brown crust without burning the exterior or leaving the inside undercooked.
  • Avoid Overcrowding: Fry croquettes in batches to prevent lowering the oil temperature and ensure each patty gets crispy, evenly browned edges.
  • Rest Before Serving: Let croquettes sit for a minute after cooking to help them set and maintain their shape, making them easier to plate and serve without falling apart.

How to Store and Reheat Salmon Croquettes Without Drying

  • Refrigerate: Store cooled croquettes in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator, placing parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
  • Reheat in Oven: Warm croquettes at 350°F for 10-12 minutes, placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to maintain crispiness and prevent drying out.
  • Skillet Reheating: Gently reheat croquettes in a lightly oiled skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side, restoring their crispy exterior and ensuring even warming.
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Southern Salmon Croquettes Recipe

Southern Salmon Croquettes Recipe


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4.8 from 16 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Southern salmon croquettes bring classic comfort to your dinner table with crispy, golden-brown patties packed with tender flaked salmon and Southern hospitality. Creamy, herb-infused breadcrumbs and a zesty remoulade sauce complete this delightful Southern-style seafood treat you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein:

  • 15 ounces (425 grams) canned salmon

Vegetables and Herbs:

  • 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
  • ½ cup (75 grams) sweet onion, diced
  • ¼ cup (15 grams) cilantro, chopped

Binding and Seasoning Ingredients:

  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • ½ cup (60 grams) flour
  • ¼ cup (30 grams) yellow cornmeal
  • ¼ cup (60 milliliters) mayonnaise
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • ½ teaspoon seasoned salt
  • ¼ teaspoon pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Olive oil for frying

Instructions

  1. Craft a harmonious blend of flour and cornmeal in a spacious mixing vessel, creating a foundational texture for the croquettes.
  2. Gently flake the canned salmon into the dry mixture, breaking down any large chunks to ensure even distribution.
  3. Incorporate finely diced red bell pepper and sweet onion to introduce vibrant color and aromatic depth to the salmon base.
  4. Infuse the mixture with Worcestershire sauce, seasoned salt, black pepper, and garlic powder, layering complex flavor profiles.
  5. Fold in fresh cilantro and mayonnaise, which will help bind the ingredients and provide a creamy undertone.
  6. Introduce a beaten egg as the final binding agent, stirring thoroughly to create a cohesive and moldable mixture.
  7. Using gentle pressure, shape the salmon blend into uniform patties, compacting them carefully to prevent crumbling during cooking.
  8. Warm olive oil in a large skillet, allowing it to reach a shimmering, high-heat state that promotes crisp exterior development.
  9. Carefully place the formed patties into the hot oil, allowing each side to transform into a golden-brown, crispy shell.
  10. Cook for approximately 2-3 minutes per side, monitoring the color and texture to achieve a perfect crunch.
  11. Transfer the freshly fried croquettes to a serving plate, accompanied by tangy tartar sauce, zesty remoulade, or a bright lemon wedge.

Notes

  • Drain salmon thoroughly to prevent soggy texture and ensure crisp edges during frying.
  • Chop vegetables finely for even distribution and better binding in the croquette mixture.
  • Use fresh ingredients like red bell pepper and sweet onion to enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Southern American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 330
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 16g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg
Isabella Rossi

Isabella Rossi

Founder & Culinary Content Creator

Expertise

Recipe Development​, Traditional Irish and European Cuisines, Food Styling and Photography, Culinary Education​

Education

Dublin Institute of Technology (DIT) – School of Culinary Arts and Food Technology

  • Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in classical and modern cooking techniques, kitchen management, and menu development.​

Ballymaloe Cookery School

  • Program: 12-Week Certificate Course
  • Focus: Intensive, hands-on experience emphasizing farm-to-table cooking and sustainable practices.​

Liam is the voice behind many of Craft Meats’ most flavorful features. With roots in Dublin’s smoky barbecue scene and a culinary degree from the Dublin Institute of Technology, he brings time-tested cooking techniques to life. 

His training at Ballymaloe Cookery School sharpened his farm-to-table approach, giving him a deep respect for every ingredient he writes about.

He’s not about overcomplicating the process, just helping you cook meat that’s worth talking about. When he’s not writing or grilling, he’s out foraging or nerding out on regional spice blends to add to his next recipe.

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