Chef Mitchell preparing Golden Crispy Salmon Cakes
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered my love for salmon cakes during a summer trip to the coast. After several attempts and tweaks, I've perfected this recipe. The balance of flavors and textures makes it a favorite in my home. Sharing this dish with friends and family brings back fond memories of those sunny days by the sea."

With over a decade of culinary experience, Chef Mitchell specializes in American cuisine, focusing on approachable yet delicious recipes. His passion for creating simple dinner ideas has led to many beloved family meals. Chef Mitchell is dedicated to teaching others the joys of cooking with fresh ingredients.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Golden Crispy Salmon Cakes served on a plate

Why This Golden Crispy Salmon Cakes Recipe Works

This recipe shines because it uses simple, fresh ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. The combination of salmon, herbs, and spices creates a delightful taste that is hard to resist. Plus, the crispy exterior and tender inside offer a satisfying texture contrast with every bite.

The method of frying ensures that the cakes develop a golden crust while staying moist inside. By using proper technique, these salmon cakes achieve the perfect balance of crunch and softness, making them a favorite in any household.

💡 Professional Tip

For extra crispiness, try chilling the formed salmon cakes in the fridge for about 30 minutes before frying. This helps them hold their shape and ensures a golden crust when cooked.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the salmon mixture and form the cakes ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before frying. This makes it easy to have dinner ready in a pinch. Just remember to cook them right before serving for optimal freshness.

If you prefer fresh fish, you can use cooked and flaked salmon or substitute with canned tuna or crab meat. Ensure the fish is thoroughly cooked and seasoned to maintain flavor. You can also use a mix of different seafood for a unique twist.

The salmon cakes are done when they are golden brown on the outside and have an internal temperature of at least 145°F. A crispy texture should be evident. You can also test one by cutting it in half to ensure it's fully heated through.

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked salmon cakes. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

These salmon cakes pair well with a fresh green salad, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables. You can also serve them with a side of tartar sauce or lemon aioli for dipping. A light white wine or sparkling water also complements the dish beautifully.

Cooked salmon cakes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or skillet to maintain their crispiness. Be sure to check for freshness before consuming.

Yes, you can prepare the mixture and form the cakes in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to fry them. This is a great way to save time on busy weeknights or when entertaining guests.

To reheat your salmon cakes, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes on each side to restore their crispiness.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: If your salmon cakes turn out dry, it may be due to overcooking or using lean fish.

Solution: Make sure to cook them just until they are golden brown and check the internal temperature. Consider adding a bit more mayonnaise or moisture to the mixture next time.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: If the cakes lack crispiness, they may have been overcrowded in the pan or not cooked long enough.

Solution: Ensure each cake has enough space to fry properly and increase the cooking time slightly to achieve a golden crust.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: Overcooked salmon cakes can become tough and dry.

Prevention: Monitor the cooking time closely and adjust the heat as necessary. Use a timer to avoid overcooking.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: If the centers of the cakes are still raw, they may not have been cooked long enough.

Recovery: Lower the heat slightly and allow the cakes to cook longer, ensuring the outside does not burn while the center cooks through.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: If your salmon cakes have a burnt exterior, the heat may have been too high.

Prevention: Reduce the cooking temperature and ensure the oil is hot but not smoking. Fry in smaller batches if necessary.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the cakes are too sweet, reduce the amount of mayonnaise and opt for a more savory seasoning.

Too Salty: For overly salty cakes, try adding more breadcrumbs or a starchy ingredient to absorb the salt.

Bland: If the flavor is bland, add more herbs, spices, or a splash of lemon juice to elevate the taste.

Fresh ingredients for Golden Crispy Salmon Cakes

Essential Ingredients for Golden Crispy Salmon Cakes

Key ingredients in this recipe are canned salmon, which provides a rich flavor and protein, and breadcrumbs, which contribute to the crispiness. Fresh herbs like green onions add brightness, while mayonnaise binds everything together for moisture and taste.

Using high-quality canned salmon will significantly enhance the flavor of your cakes. Choose those packed in water for a lighter option, or in oil for additional richness. Fresh ingredients make all the difference in achieving the best results.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Canned Salmon: Opt for wild-caught salmon when possible for a richer taste. Ensure it's well-drained to avoid excess moisture in your mixture.
  • Breadcrumbs: Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy texture. You can also make your own from stale bread for a fresher flavor.
  • Mayonnaise: Choose a good quality mayonnaise for the best flavor. You can also substitute with Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
Cooking process for Golden Crispy Salmon Cakes

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

The cooking process for these salmon cakes is straightforward and rewarding. Start by mixing your ingredients in a bowl and forming patties. The key is to handle the mixture gently to maintain its texture.

Once shaped, frying them in hot oil gives the cakes their signature crispiness. Pay attention to the heat to ensure even cooking, resulting in irresistibly crispy salmon cakes.

Key Technique for Perfect Golden Crispy Salmon Cakes

The most important technique for achieving perfect salmon cakes is proper frying. Ensure the oil is preheated to the right temperature before adding the patties. This helps lock in moisture while creating a crispy exterior.

Golden Crispy Salmon Cakes

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup mayonnaise
    For dipping
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
    Freshly squeezed
  • 1 tsp dill
    Dried or fresh
  • 1 tsp capers
    Chopped
  • Salt and pepper
    To taste

For the Sauce

  • 1 lb canned salmon
    Drained and flaked
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
    For binding
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
    For moisture
  • 1/4 cup green onions
    Chopped
  • 1 large egg
    Beaten
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
    For flavor
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
    For depth
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
    For flavor
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
    For flavor
  • Salt and pepper
    To taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Salmon Mixture

    In a large bowl, combine the drained and flaked salmon, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, green onions, beaten egg, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

  2. Form the Cakes

    Shape the salmon mixture into patties, about 2 inches in diameter and 1 inch thick. Dust each patty lightly with flour.

  3. Heat the Oil

    In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.

  4. Fry the Cakes

    Carefully place the patties in the hot oil. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.

  5. Drain the Cakes

    Once cooked, remove the salmon cakes from the skillet and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

  6. Serve

    Serve the salmon cakes hot with lemon wedges, fresh parsley, and tartar sauce on the side.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store leftover salmon cakes, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be kept for up to 3 days. To maintain their crispiness, reheat them in an oven rather than a microwave.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Golden Crispy Salmon Cakes with a side of fresh salad, tartar sauce, and lemon wedges for extra zing. They pair beautifully with roasted vegetables or a light pasta salad.

Recipe Variations

You can customize these salmon cakes by adding ingredients like diced bell peppers, corn, or fresh herbs. For a spicier kick, add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mix.