Salmon Cakes with Canned Salmon Recipe

Recipe By:

Lily Hartwell

Posted:

September 28, 2025

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Catch the aroma of freshly cooked salmon cakes wafting through your kitchen. These delicious morsels are golden brown on the outside and packed with savory goodness on the inside. Imagine taking a bite and experiencing that satisfying crunch followed by the tender flakiness of the fish—a delightful sensation that promises to impress everyone at your dinner table.

I remember the first time I made these delightful salmon cakes with canned salmon for my family. It was one of those chaotic weeknights where takeout seemed like the only option until I discovered this gem in my pantry. Little did I know that what started as a last-minute decision would turn into a beloved family favorite!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

These flavorful salmon cakes are incredibly easy to whip up and require minimal ingredients.
The golden crust adds a delightful crunch that contrasts perfectly with the tender interior.
They can be served as an appetizer or main dish, making them versatile for any meal.
Plus, they are a fantastic way to use up pantry staples!

Everyone loved them so much that they asked for seconds—who knew canned fish could be such a crowd-pleaser?

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Canned Salmon: Opt for wild-caught if possible; it adds depth and flavor that’s hard to beat.
Breadcrumbs: Use plain or panko breadcrumbs for optimal texture; they help bind everything together.
Eggs: Fresh eggs work best here; they act as a binding agent and give moisture to the mixture.
Green Onions: Chopped green onions offer a fresh kick and vibrant color; don’t skip this ingredient!
Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and richness; choose your favorite brand or even make your own for an extra touch.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the flavors beautifully—don’t settle for bottled!
Spices (like garlic powder and black pepper): A little seasoning goes a long way in enhancing the flavor profile of your cakes.
Oil for frying: Use vegetable or olive oil for frying these beauties until golden brown.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare yourself for an exciting cooking adventure that’ll have your taste buds dancing!

Gather Your Ingredients: Start by collecting all your ingredients on the counter. You want everything within arm’s reach because we’re about to create magic!

Mix it Up!: In a large bowl, combine canned salmon (drained), breadcrumbs, eggs, green onions, mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir until well combined; you want it all mixed nicely without overworking it.

Form Your Cakes: With clean hands (or if you’re feeling fancy—a scoop!), form small patties from the mixture. Aim for about 2-3 inches wide; this size offers that perfect balance of crispness and fluffiness.

Heat Your Pan!: Heat 1/4 inch of oil in a skillet over medium heat—test it by dropping in a breadcrumb; if it sizzles immediately, you’re ready to fry!

Fry Until Golden Brown: Carefully place each cake in the hot oil without overcrowding the pan. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes per side until they achieve that glorious golden-brown hue.

Drain and Serve!: Once cooked, transfer your cakes onto paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve warm with tartar sauce or your favorite dipping sauce—enjoy every crunchy bite!

These scrumptious salmon cakes made with canned salmon will become your go-to recipe when you need something quick yet delicious! Their versatility means you can serve them as appetizers at parties or enjoy them alongside a fresh salad on busy weeknights.

Now that you’ve mastered this delightful dish, gather friends or family around for a fun meal! You’ll find everyone raving about how tasty and satisfying these little gems are!

You Must Know

These salmon cakes with canned salmon are a delightful and easy meal option.
They bring flavor and texture together, making them perfect for lunch or dinner.
The aroma of sautéing onions and spices fills the kitchen, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve perfect salmon cakes, start by mixing ingredients thoroughly, then shape and chill the patties before frying. This helps maintain their shape while cooking.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your salmon cakes with fresh herbs, diced vegetables, or different spices. Each addition can create a unique flavor profile tailored to your tastes.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover salmon cakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for maximum crispiness.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For the best texture, use cold ingredients when mixing.
Be careful not to over-mix; that could lead to dense cakes.
A hot pan is essential for achieving a golden-brown crust on each cake.

Sometimes I think my friends just come over for the salmon cakes! The smiles and compliments they bring remind me why I love cooking so much.