From the sizzling sound that echoes in my kitchen to the delightful aroma wafting through the air, making Crispy Pan Fried Salmon Croquettes has become one of my favorite culinary joys. This easy seafood recipe not only rescues leftover mashed potatoes, but it also transforms fresh salmon into a deliciously versatile dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re planning a casual family dinner or looking to wow friends at a gathering, these croquettes serve perfectly as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or main dish. They’re freezer-friendly, making them a game changer for busy nights when you crave something satisfying yet uncomplicated. Ready to dive into the crispy perfection? Let’s get cooking!
Why are Salmon Croquettes So Irresistible?
Crispy exterior: The golden-brown crust perfectly contrasts the tender inside, making each bite a delight.
Versatile dish: Serve these croquettes as an appetizer, snack, or main course, and watch them disappear!
Freezer-friendly: Prep a batch ahead of time for quick meals—simply fry them straight from the freezer.
Flavor-packed: Enhanced with Old Bay seasoning and paired with tangy remoulade, these salmon croquettes are bursting with taste.
Leftover savior: Transform those mash potatoes into something spectacular without waste. Want more seafood inspiration? Check out our delicious Glazed Salmon Sweet or add a festive touch with Christmas Smoked Salmon.
Crispy Pan Fried Salmon Croquettes Ingredients
• Dive into making these mouthwatering croquettes with these essential ingredients!
For the Croquettes
- Salmon Fillet – Fresh salmon brings rich flavor; substitute with trout or high-quality canned salmon if needed.
- Neutral Oil (e.g., grapeseed, canola, avocado) – Essential for frying; ensure you have enough to slightly cover the croquettes.
- Kosher Salt – Enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.
- Black Pepper – A key seasoning; adjust according to your taste preference.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds a touch of richness; can be replaced with oil for a dairy-free version.
- Medium Shallot – Provides an aromatic base and sweetness; onion can be used if you’re out of shallots.
- Garlic – Offers aromatic flavor; adjust the amount based on your taste intensity.
- Leftover Mashed Potatoes – Binds all ingredients together while adding creaminess; freshly cooked potatoes can be an alternative.
- Seasoned Breadcrumbs – Creates that desirable crispy exterior; feel free to use panko for an extra crunch.
- Old Bay Seasoning – Imparts that unique seafood essence; can be swapped with seafood seasoning or omitted if desired.
- Dijon Mustard – Adds a tangy depth; yellow mustard is a good alternative, or omit for non-spicy options.
- Fresh Parsley – A fresh garnish to brighten your dish; substitute with chives or scallions if you prefer.
For the Remoulade Sauce
- Remoulade Sauce – Perfect for dipping; you can also try tartar sauce, cocktail sauce, or aioli for variety.
Now you’re all set to create these delightful Crispy Pan Fried Salmon Croquettes!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Pan Fried Salmon Croquettes
Step 1: Make the Remoulade Sauce
Start by preparing your favorite remoulade sauce, as this will be the perfect companion for your Crispy Pan Fried Salmon Croquettes. Combine ingredients like mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and seasonings in a bowl. Mix until smooth, adjusting flavors to taste, and refrigerate it while you prepare the croquettes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 2: Cook the Salmon
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Place the fresh salmon fillet onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and drizzle it lightly with oil. Season the salmon with kosher salt and black pepper before baking for 15-20 minutes, or until it flakes easily and registers an internal temperature of 130°F. Once done, let it cool slightly, then flake the salmon into a large mixing bowl.
Step 3: Sweat the Shallot
In a small skillet, melt a tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium-low heat. Add the finely chopped shallot and sauté it for about 3 minutes until it turns translucent and fragrant. Then, add minced garlic and continue cooking for another minute, ensuring the garlic doesn’t brown. This aromatic mixture will add depth to your croquettes.
Step 4: Form the Croquettes
In the bowl with the flaked salmon, combine the leftover mashed potatoes, seasoned breadcrumbs, the sautéed shallots, Old Bay seasoning, and Dijon mustard. Mix everything gently until just combined. Using a measuring scoop, shape the mixture into oval croquettes, about 2-3 inches long, which will help ensure they cook evenly when pan-fried.
Step 5: Pan Fry the Croquettes
Heat a generous amount of neutral oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 375°F. Add the formed croquettes to the hot oil, frying them for about 2-3 minutes on each side. Keep an eye on them and cook until they achieve a beautiful golden-brown crisp, which should take about 6-8 minutes total. Drain the cooked croquettes on paper towels and sprinkle them immediately with kosher salt.
Step 6: Serve
Once all the croquettes are cooked, plate them warm and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve alongside your chilled remoulade sauce for dipping. These Crispy Pan Fried Salmon Croquettes will surely be a hit at your gathering or a delightful addition to your family meal!
Expert Tips for Crispy Pan Fried Salmon Croquettes
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Avoid Overcooking Salmon: Ensure your salmon is just cooked through to keep it moist for the croquettes, preventing a dry texture.
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Chill the Mixture: Let your croquette mixture sit in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before frying to help them hold their shape better.
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Use Enough Oil: Fry in sufficient oil to ensure a crispy, golden exterior—about ½ inch of oil should do the trick.
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Uniform Size: Use a measuring scoop to maintain consistent croquette sizes, ensuring even cooking that gives you the ideal crispy pan fried salmon croquettes.
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Drain Excess Oil: Place cooked croquettes on paper towels immediately after frying to absorb extra oil and retain their crunch.
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Experiment with Dips: While remoulade is fantastic, don’t shy away from trying other dipping sauces like tartar or a spicy aioli for added zest!
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Pan Fried Salmon Croquettes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the croquette mixture (flaked salmon, mashed potatoes, breadcrumbs, shallots, Old Bay, and mustard) up to 24 hours in advance. To maintain quality, refrigerate the mixture in an airtight container, as this helps the flavors meld together beautifully. Additionally, uncooked croquettes can also be formed and frozen for up to 3 months—just arrange them on a baking sheet first to prevent sticking, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to serve, simply fry the refrigerated mixture right from the fridge or fry the frozen ones directly from the freezer, ensuring you adjust the cooking time slightly for best results. Enjoy the convenience of having your salmon croquettes ready and waiting for those busy weeknights!
Storage Tips for Crispy Pan Fried Salmon Croquettes
Fridge: Store cooked salmon croquettes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to maintain crispiness.
Freezer: Freeze uncooked croquettes on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They last for up to 3 months; fry directly from frozen, adding a couple of minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating: For leftover cooked croquettes, reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring they’re heated through and crispy.
Serving Freshness: To enjoy the best texture and flavor of your crispy pan fried salmon croquettes, consume them soon after cooking.
Variations & Substitutions for Crispy Pan Fried Salmon Croquettes
Feel free to unleash your creativity and modify this delightful recipe to suit your taste preferences!
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Canned Salmon: Swap fresh salmon for high-quality canned salmon to save on prep time. This option makes for a delicious and easy meal.
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Different Fish: Try using fresh trout or cod instead of salmon for a subtle flavor twist. Each variety brings its unique taste and texture to the croquettes.
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Vegetarian Option: Substitute the salmon with mashed chickpeas or black beans for a plant-based version that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Keep the seasonings and add some finely chopped veggies for extra crunch.
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Herb & Veggie Boost: Mix in some diced bell peppers, spinach, or fresh herbs to the croquette mixture for an added flavor and texture explosion. This addition makes each bite even more exciting!
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Baking Alternative: If you’re after a healthier option, bake the croquettes on a parchment-lined tray at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes. Don’t forget to flip halfway for even cooking.
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Heat It Up: Add some chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the mixture for a spicy kick. This variation is perfect for those who love a bit of heat in their dishes!
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Different Dipping Sauces: While a rich remoulade is classic, feel free to explore other dipping choices like a zesty homemade tartar sauce or creamy garlic aioli for added flair. Try mixing things up based on your preference!
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Panko Crunch: Use panko breadcrumbs instead of seasoned ones for an extra crispy texture on the outside. This twist adds that irresistible crunch that everyone will love!
If you’re looking for more seafood inspiration, don’t miss out on making Spanish Churro Pancakes or check our delectable Christmas Smoked Salmon for festive ideas!
What to Serve with Crispy Pan Fried Salmon Croquettes
Nothing enhances the delightful crunch of your croquettes quite like a carefully curated selection of sides and accompaniments.
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Creamy Coleslaw: The refreshing crunch of coleslaw provides a cool contrast, balancing the rich flavors of the salmon croquettes beautifully.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: These velvety potatoes complement the crispy texture while keeping the meal comforting and hearty.
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Crisp Garden Salad: A light, vibrant salad dressed with citrus vinaigrette adds freshness and a pop of color to your plate, making it a well-rounded meal.
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Homemade Tartar Sauce: This classic pairing enhances the seafood profile, bringing creaminess and tang that beautifully complements the croquettes.
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Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa with fresh herbs offers a nutritious, textural contrast that pairs excellently with the salmon’s flakiness.
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Zesty Lemon Wedge: A simple squeeze of fresh lemon brightens the dish, adding a refreshing lift that brings out the salmon’s natural flavor.
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Beer or White Wine: A crisp lager or a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc will elevate your dining experience, harmonizing with the savory flavors of the croquettes.
By thoughtfully combining these elements, you’ll create a meal that is not only satisfying but also memorable!
Crispy Pan Fried Salmon Croquettes Recipe FAQs
What type of salmon is best to use for this recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh salmon fillet is ideal for making Crispy Pan Fried Salmon Croquettes as it provides a rich flavor and moist texture. However, high-quality canned salmon or even fresh trout can be used as substitutes if needed.
How should I store leftover croquettes?
Once cooked, store your salmon croquettes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want them crispy still, reheat them in a skillet over medium heat to regain that delicious crunch!
Can I freeze uncooked croquettes? How do I do that?
Certainly! To freeze uncooked croquettes, arrange them on a baking sheet in a single layer without touching and place them in the freezer until solid, which usually takes about 1-2 hours. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, simply fry them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What if I don’t have Old Bay seasoning?
Very! If you don’t have Old Bay seasoning on hand, you can use other seafood seasonings or a mix of spices like paprika, celery salt, and black pepper. You can even omit it if you prefer, although keep in mind the flavor may be less distinctive.
Are these salmon croquettes safe for pets?
While the ingredients in the croquettes are not toxic to pets, the seasonings and any sauces like remoulade may not be suitable for them. It’s always best to consult with your vet regarding your pet’s dietary needs to ensure their safety.
Crispy Pan Fried Salmon Croquettes: A Flavorful Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by preparing your favorite remoulade sauce. Combine ingredients like mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and seasonings in a bowl. Mix until smooth, adjusting flavors as needed, and refrigerate while preparing the croquettes.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Place the fresh salmon fillet onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and drizzle it lightly with oil. Season with kosher salt and black pepper, then bake for 15-20 minutes until it flakes easily.
- In a small skillet, melt unsalted butter over medium-low heat. Add chopped shallot and sauté for 3 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute without browning it.
- In a large bowl, combine flaked salmon, leftover mashed potatoes, seasoned breadcrumbs, sautéed shallots, Old Bay seasoning, and Dijon mustard. Mix gently until combined. Shape into oval croquettes about 2-3 inches long.
- Heat a generous amount of neutral oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 375°F. Fry the croquettes for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown, about 6-8 minutes total. Drain on paper towels and sprinkle with kosher salt.
- Plate the croquettes warm and garnish with parsley. Serve with chilled remoulade sauce for dipping.
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