These Salmon Croquettes are a savory, crispy delight made with flaky baked salmon, leftover mashed potatoes, and aromatic shallots and garlic. They’re seasoned with Old Bay and Dijon mustard for depth, then pan-fried to golden perfection. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or main dish, they pair perfectly with remoulade sauce and a side salad. They’re also freezer-friendly and ideal for meal prep!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 lb salmon fillet (skin on or off)

• 2 tbsp neutral oil (grapeseed, canola, avocado), plus more for frying

• 1 tsp Kosher salt

• ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper

• 1 tbsp unsalted butter

• 1 medium shallot, finely chopped (about ¼ cup)

• 2 cloves garlic, chopped (about 2 tbsp)

• ½ cup mashed potatoes (fresh or leftover)

• ¼ cup seasoned breadcrumbs

• 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

• Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

• Optional: 1½ cups remoulade sauce for serving

Directions

Cook the Salmon:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Place salmon on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

2. Drizzle with 2 tbsp oil and season with salt and pepper.

3. Bake for 15–20 minutes until cooked through (internal temp: 130°F).

4. Let cool slightly, then flake the salmon into a bowl. Discard skin.

Sauté Aromatics:
5. In a pan, melt butter over medium-low heat.
6. Add shallots and cook until translucent (about 3 minutes).
7. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute more. Remove from heat.

Mix & Form Croquettes:
8. To the bowl with flaked salmon, add mashed potatoes, breadcrumbs, shallots, garlic, Old Bay, and Dijon.
9. Mix thoroughly. Form about 3 tbsp of mixture into oval-shaped patties.

Pan Fry:
10. Heat ½ inch of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches ~375°F.
11. Fry croquettes in batches for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.
12. Drain on paper towels, season with extra salt, and garnish with parsley.

Optional Sauce:
13. Serve with remoulade, tartar sauce, or yogurt-dill dip.

Alternate Baking Method:

• Bake croquettes at 375°F for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway.

Nutrients (Per 3 Croquettes)

• Calories: 313 kcal

• Protein: 25 g

• Fat: 18 g

• Carbohydrates: 13 g

• Fiber: 1 g

• Sugar: 1 g

• Cholesterol: 70 mg

• Sodium: 777 mg

• Potassium: 690 mg

• Vitamin A: 163 IU

• Vitamin C: 7 mg

• Calcium: 42 mg

• Iron: 2 mg

A Perfect Way to Use Leftovers Creatively

One of the greatest advantages of this recipe is its ability to transform leftovers into something special. Leftover mashed potatoes provide the ideal creamy base to bind the flaky salmon, eliminating the need for eggs while also enhancing the texture. The addition of baked salmon, which can be prepared fresh or repurposed from a previous meal, ensures the croquettes are rich in flavor and nutrients. Instead of reheating leftover fish and potatoes separately, this recipe brings them together into a cohesive, elevated dish that’s far more exciting than the sum of its parts.

Layers of Flavor in Every Bite

From the very first bite, these croquettes offer a delightful range of textures and tastes. The exterior is golden and crispy, thanks to pan-frying or baking, while the interior remains soft and flavorful. Old Bay seasoning provides a savory, slightly spicy kick that pairs beautifully with the delicate salmon. Dijon mustard adds subtle tang and depth, while sautéed shallots and garlic infuse each croquette with aromatic complexity. Fresh parsley, added just before serving, brings a burst of color and freshness that lifts the dish.

Salmon: A Nutritious Star Ingredient

Salmon is the centerpiece of this dish for good reason. Not only is it delicious and versatile, but it’s also packed with nutritional benefits. A rich source of high-quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids, salmon supports heart health, brain function, and inflammation reduction. It’s also high in vitamins B12 and D, as well as selenium and potassium. When combined with other wholesome ingredients in this recipe, it becomes part of a well-rounded, satisfying meal that nourishes as much as it delights.

The Magic of Mashed Potatoes in Croquettes

Mashed potatoes might not be a traditional binding ingredient in croquettes, but in this recipe, they’re a game-changer. They add creaminess, structure, and subtle flavor without overpowering the salmon. Whether you use leftover mashed potatoes or make a fresh batch, they eliminate the need for flour or eggs while helping to achieve a croquette that’s soft on the inside and crisp on the outside. Their neutral profile also allows the seasoning and aromatics to shine through.

Crispy or Baked: Your Choice

While traditional croquettes are pan-fried for that signature crunch, this recipe offers flexibility with an alternative baking method. If you prefer a lighter approach or want to make a larger batch all at once, baking the croquettes in a hot oven yields a similarly satisfying texture with less oil. Simply flip them halfway through baking to ensure both sides turn golden and crisp. Either method results in croquettes that are tender inside and delightfully crisp outside.

Perfect for Any Meal or Occasion

These salmon croquettes are incredibly versatile in how they can be served. For a casual appetizer, pair them with a remoulade or tartar sauce and serve alongside lemon wedges. As a main course, they’re excellent with a green salad, roasted vegetables, or coleslaw. They also work beautifully for brunch with a poached egg and toast or as a protein-rich addition to a grain bowl. Their portable nature makes them a great addition to lunchboxes or picnic baskets, and they reheat well for a quick meal on the go.

Make-Ahead and Freezer-Friendly

Meal prep enthusiasts will appreciate how well these croquettes store and reheat. After forming the patties, they can be frozen uncooked on a parchment-lined tray, then transferred to a freezer-safe container or bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and pan-fry or bake as directed. Cooked croquettes can also be refrigerated for up to three days and reheated in a skillet or air fryer for a quick, crispy finish.

Pairing Ideas and Sauces

These croquettes are especially delicious when served with a zesty sauce. Classic remoulade—creamy, tangy, and packed with herbs—complements the richness of the salmon. A dill-yogurt sauce, lemon aioli, or even a spicy sriracha mayo would also work beautifully. On the side, consider pairing them with dishes like:

• Mixed greens with a citrus vinaigrette

• Roasted asparagus or broccolini

• Garlic sautéed spinach

• Pickled vegetables or cucumber salad

• Warm couscous or quinoa salad

Their neutral yet savory flavor profile means they play well with a wide variety of accompaniments.

Nutritional Profile

Each serving of three croquettes contains approximately 313 calories, making them a satisfying yet balanced meal option. The protein content is high thanks to the salmon and mashed potatoes, and they also contain heart-healthy fats from the fish and cooking oil. While pan-frying adds some fat, using a light amount of neutral oil helps maintain control. The sodium level can be adjusted based on personal preference or dietary needs by modifying the amount of salt, seasoning, or remoulade served on the side.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Salmon croquettes are proof that comfort food can be wholesome, budget-friendly, and full of flavor. They offer a practical way to reduce food waste by repurposing leftovers and come together with simple ingredients that are likely already in your kitchen. The result is a crisp-on-the-outside, creamy-on-the-inside croquette that satisfies any time of day. Their adaptability—from ingredient swaps to cooking methods and serving options—makes them a recipe you’ll turn to again and again.

Conclusion

Salmon Croquettes with mashed potatoes and aromatics are a delicious example of how simple ingredients can create a standout dish. Whether you’re serving them for a cozy dinner, prepping them for weekday meals, or offering them as party appetizers, they deliver on flavor, texture, and nutrition. With bold seasoning, a golden crust, and a creamy center, these croquettes are both satisfying and easy to love. Keep them in your rotation for a reliable recipe that always hits the mark—crispy, savory, and utterly delicious.