15-Minute Air Fryer Salmon Croquettes
Are you tired of the same old salmon dinner routine? These air fryer salmon croquettes will revolutionize your weeknight meals! Golden, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, they’re like little pillows of seafood heaven.
Here’s a fun fact: croquettes originated in France but have become a beloved comfort food worldwide. What makes these special is how the air fryer creates that perfect crispy exterior without all the oil mess of traditional frying.
These bite-sized beauties are incredibly simple to make, ready in just 15 minutes, and loved by kids and adults alike. They’re similar to our popular air fryer fish cakes but with a more delicate salmon flavor that melts in your mouth.
Get ready to fall in love with this easy, healthy, and absolutely delicious recipe that will become your new go-to comfort food!
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What Are Air Fryer Salmon Croquettes?
Ever wonder why these delightful little patties are called “croquettes”? The name comes from the French word “croquer,” meaning “to crunch” – and boy, do they deliver on that promise!
These golden beauties are basically salmon’s way of getting all dressed up for dinner. Think of them as salmon meatballs that went to finishing school. After all, they say the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and these crispy delights are definitely heart-stealers!
Ready to create some crunchy magic in your kitchen? Let’s dive into this fantastic recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Salmon Croquettes Recipe:
The Perfect Crispy-Tender Texture
The air fryer works absolute magic on these salmon croquettes. The outside becomes beautifully golden and crispy while the inside stays moist and flaky. Each bite delivers that satisfying crunch followed by tender, flavorful salmon that practically melts on your tongue.
Budget-Friendly Family Meal
Making air fryer salmon croquettes at home costs a fraction of what you’d pay at a restaurant. Using canned salmon or leftover cooked salmon, you can create an elegant meal that feels fancy but won’t break the bank. Your family will think you’re a culinary genius!
Flavor-Packed Ingredients
These croquettes are loaded with aromatic herbs, zesty lemon, and savory seasonings that complement the salmon perfectly. The combination of fresh dill, garlic, and a hint of paprika creates layers of flavor that dance on your palate.
Unlike our air fryer cod cakes, these have a richer, more sophisticated taste that pairs beautifully with both casual and formal sides. Why not give this recipe a try and discover your new favorite salmon dish?
How to Make Air Fryer Salmon Croquettes:
Quick Overview
This recipe transforms simple ingredients into restaurant-quality croquettes in just 15 minutes. The secret lies in the perfect balance of binding ingredients and seasonings that create incredibly flavorful, crispy-outside, tender-inside results.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes
Servings: 4-6 croquettes
Key Ingredients for Air Fryer Salmon Croquettes:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cans (14.75 oz each) salmon, drained and flaked
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For Coating:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup additional panko breadcrumbs
- Cooking spray
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon Mixture Drain the canned salmon thoroughly and remove any bones or skin. Flake the salmon into small pieces in a large mixing bowl. Add the beaten egg, 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, fresh dill, lemon juice, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
Step 2: Shape the Croquettes Using your hands, form the salmon mixture into 6 oval-shaped patties, about 3 inches long and 1 inch thick. Place them on a plate and refrigerate for 10 minutes to help them hold their shape.
Step 3: Set Up Coating Station Place flour in one shallow dish and the remaining panko breadcrumbs in another. Remove croquettes from refrigerator.
Step 4: Coat the Croquettes Dredge each croquette first in flour, shaking off excess, then coat thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to help them adhere.
Step 5: Preheat Air Fryer Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
Step 6: Cook the Croquettes Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place croquettes in the basket, leaving space between each one. Spray tops with cooking spray. Cook for 6 minutes, then carefully flip and cook for another 4-6 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
Step 7: Serve Immediately Remove from air fryer and let cool for 2 minutes before serving. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
What to Serve Air Fryer Salmon Croquettes With:
These versatile croquettes pair beautifully with many sides. Try them with creamy coleslaw and roasted sweet potato fries for a complete meal. They’re also fantastic with steamed asparagus, garlic mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad with lemon vinaigrette.
For a more elegant presentation, serve over mixed greens with avocado slices and a dollop of tartar sauce. Rice pilaf and roasted vegetables make excellent accompaniments too.
Don’t forget beverages! A crisp white wine, sparkling water with lemon, or even a cold beer complements these croquettes perfectly.
Top Tips for Perfecting Air Fryer Salmon Croquettes:
Don’t Overmix the Salmon
Gently fold ingredients together to avoid breaking up the salmon too much. Overmixing can make the croquettes dense and tough.
Chill Before Cooking
Refrigerating the shaped croquettes for 10 minutes helps them hold together better during cooking and prevents them from falling apart.
Use Fresh Salmon Alternative
If using fresh cooked salmon instead of canned, make sure it’s completely cooled and flaked into small pieces. Remove all bones and skin carefully.
Adjust Seasonings
Taste the mixture before shaping and adjust seasonings as needed. Remember, canned salmon can vary in saltiness.
Don’t Overcrowd
Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. This ensures even cooking and maximum crispiness.
Storing and Reheating Tips:
Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover croquettes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezer Storage: For longer storage, freeze cooked croquettes for up to 3 months. Wrap individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container.
Reheating Instructions: To reheat, place croquettes in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving as this makes them soggy.
Make-Ahead Tips: You can prepare the mixture and shape the croquettes up to 24 hours ahead. Keep covered in the refrigerator until ready to coat and cook.
Recipe Variations to Try:
Transform this basic recipe by adding different herbs like parsley or chives. Try incorporating finely diced celery or red bell pepper for extra crunch. For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
You can also make mini croquettes for appetizers by shaping them smaller and reducing cooking time to 8-10 minutes total.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 croquette) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 185 |
| Protein | 18g |
| Carbohydrates | 12g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 420mg |
| Omega-3 | 1.2g |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?
Yes! Cook 1 pound of fresh salmon, let it cool completely, then flake into small pieces. Remove all bones and skin before mixing with other ingredients.
Why are my croquettes falling apart?
This usually happens when the mixture is too wet or hasn’t been chilled enough. Add more breadcrumbs if the mixture seems too loose, and always refrigerate before cooking.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour and use gluten-free breadcrumbs for coating.
How do I know when they’re done?
The croquettes should be golden brown and crispy on the outside, and the internal temperature should reach 145°F when measured with a meat thermometer.
Can I bake these instead of air frying?
Yes! Bake at 425°F for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
