There’s something incredibly delightful about the crispy, golden-brown exterior of salmon cakes with canned salmon. Imagine biting into one, and the savory flavors burst forth, bringing a smile to your face. The perfect balance of tender fish and flavorful seasonings makes these little cakes an absolute treat for the senses.
I remember the first time I whipped these up for a dinner party. The aroma wafted through my kitchen, drawing everyone in like moths to a flame. These salmon cakes became an instant hit, reminding me that great food can create unforgettable memories. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, there’s never a wrong time to enjoy these scrumptious cakes.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These salmon cakes are easy to whip up, making them perfect for busy weeknights
- Their rich flavor profile will have you coming back for seconds
- With their vibrant colors and appealing texture, they look as good as they taste
- Plus, they’re versatile enough to serve as an appetizer or main course!
I still chuckle when I think about my friend who took a huge bite and exclaimed it was “like a hug from the sea.” It’s moments like these that make cooking worthwhile.

Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Canned Salmon: Look for high-quality canned salmon; it should be pink and packed in water for the best flavor.
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Breadcrumbs: Use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs to bind the mixture; they help give the cakes structure.
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Eggs: Fresh eggs help bind everything together while adding moisture; choose large eggs for consistency.
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Green Onions: Chopped green onions add a fresh crunch; use both white and green parts for flavor.
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Mayonnaise: A touch of mayonnaise adds creaminess; opt for full-fat for richer taste.
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Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens flavors; don’t skimp on this zesty ingredient!
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Spices: A mix of dill, garlic powder, salt, and pepper elevates taste; feel free to add your favorites.
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Oil: Use canola or olive oil for frying; it helps achieve that perfect golden crust.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients together on the counter; this makes cooking smoother and prevents last-minute scrambles.
Mix the Base: In a large bowl, combine canned salmon (drained), breadcrumbs, chopped green onions, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and beaten eggs. Stir until well mixed and combine flavors.
Add Spices and Adjust Texture: Sprinkle in your spices—dill, garlic powder, salt, and pepper—and mix again. If your mixture feels too wet, add more breadcrumbs until it reaches a manageable consistency.
Shape Your Cakes: With clean hands or an ice cream scoop, form the mixture into small patties (about 3 inches wide). Make sure they are compact enough not to fall apart during cooking.
Fry Them Up!: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Carefully place the patties into the pan without overcrowding it. Cook each side until golden brown (about 4-5 minutes).
Serve and Enjoy!: Once cooked through and crispy on both sides, transfer them onto paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve warm with lemon wedges or your favorite dipping sauce!
Following these steps will result in delicious salmon cakes that will impress everyone at your table! Enjoy every bite while reminiscing about those fun moments shared over good food!
You Must Know
- These salmon cakes with canned salmon are a quick and easy dinner solution
- With a delightful crunch on the outside and a tender, flavorful inside, they make for an impressive dish that everyone will enjoy
- Plus, they’re a fantastic way to sneak in some healthy omega-3s!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by mixing all ingredients in a bowl, then form patties. Cook them in a hot skillet until golden brown; this ensures a crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist.

Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize these salmon cakes with canned salmon by adding herbs like dill or parsley. You can also swap out breadcrumbs for crushed crackers or even panko for extra crunch!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover salmon cakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to retain their crispiness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Using fresh ingredients will elevate your salmon cakes significantly
- Make sure not to overmix the batter; this keeps them light and fluffy
- Always preheat your skillet before adding the patties for an optimal sear!
I still remember the first time I made these salmon cakes with canned salmon for my family. Their smiles were priceless, and my aunt declared it “the best thing since sliced bread.” Who knew something so simple could bring so much joy?

FAQ
Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?
Absolutely! Just cook and flake the fresh salmon before mixing into your cake mixture.
How do I prevent my salmon cakes from falling apart?
Ensure you have enough binding agent like breadcrumbs or eggs to hold everything together.
What can I serve with these salmon cakes?
These delicious cakes pair wonderfully with tartar sauce or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Delicious Canned Salmon Cakes Recipe
Indulge in the delightful flavors of crispy canned salmon cakes that are perfect for any occasion. With a golden-brown exterior and a tender, savory center, these easy-to-make cakes are sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you serve them as an appetizer or main dish, their vibrant taste will leave everyone smiling. Enjoy these scrumptious bites with a squeeze of fresh lemon and your favorite dipping sauce for an unforgettable meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 8 salmon cakes 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 can (14.75 oz) high-quality canned salmon, drained
- 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp dill
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 3 tbsp canola or olive oil for frying
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients on your countertop for a smooth cooking experience.
- In a large bowl, mix together the drained canned salmon, breadcrumbs, green onions, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and beaten eggs until well combined.
- Add dill, garlic powder, salt, and pepper; mix again. If the mixture is too wet, add more breadcrumbs until it holds together.
- Form the mixture into small patties (about 3 inches wide).
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Cook patties in batches without overcrowding for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Transfer cooked patties onto paper towels to absorb excess oil and serve warm with lemon wedges or your favorite dipping sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cake (45g)
- Calories: 175
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 70mg





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