Crispy Salmon Croquettes in the Air Fryer

If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious way to prepare salmon croquettes, the air fryer is your new best friend. These crispy air fryer salmon croquettes deliver restaurant-quality results with minimal oil and maximum flavor.

Whether you’re using fresh salmon, canned salmon, or leftover cooked salmon, this cooking method transforms simple ingredients into golden-brown perfection.

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Why Choose Air Fryer Salmon Croquettes?

Making salmon croquettes in an air fryer offers numerous advantages over traditional frying methods. The hot air circulation creates an incredibly crispy exterior while keeping the interior moist and flavorful.

You’ll use up to 80% less oil compared to deep frying, making these salmon patties a healthier option for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Air fryer salmon cakes cook evenly in just 10-12 minutes at 375°F, saving you time and energy.

Plus, there’s no messy oil splattering or lingering fried food smell in your kitchen. The air fryer method also allows you to cook multiple batches efficiently, perfect for serving a crowd or preparing make-ahead meals.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Salmon Croquettes

The beauty of salmon croquettes lies in their simplicity. Start with one pound of salmon—canned salmon works wonderfully and is budget-friendly, though fresh or leftover cooked salmon elevates the dish even further.

You’ll need breadcrumbs or panko for binding and creating that signature crispy coating. Fresh breadcrumbs create a tender interior, while panko breadcrumbs deliver extra crunch. For binding, use one or two eggs depending on the moisture content of your salmon.

Add finely diced onions, bell peppers, and celery for classic flavor and texture. Season generously with Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors and cuts through the richness of the salmon. Mayonnaise or Greek yogurt adds moisture and helps bind the ingredients together.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Air Fryer Salmon Croquettes

Begin by preparing your salmon. If using canned salmon, drain it thoroughly and remove any bones and skin, though the bones are edible and calcium-rich if you prefer to keep them. For fresh salmon fillets, cook them first by baking, poaching, or steaming, then flake into small pieces once cooled.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flaked salmon with half a cup of breadcrumbs, one beaten egg, two tablespoons of mayonnaise, a quarter cup of finely diced onion, and your chosen seasonings. Mix gently until just combined—overmixing can make the croquettes dense. The mixture should hold together when pressed but not be overly wet. If too dry, add another tablespoon of mayo; if too wet, incorporate more breadcrumbs.

Shape the mixture into patties about three inches in diameter and half an inch thick. For uniform cooking, use a quarter-cup measuring cup as a scoop. Place the formed salmon patties on a plate or baking sheet, then refrigerate for 15-30 minutes. This chilling step is crucial—it helps the croquettes hold their shape during cooking and prevents them from falling apart in the air fryer.

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F for about 3 minutes. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush with olive oil to prevent sticking. Arrange the chilled salmon croquettes in a single layer, leaving space between each one for proper air circulation. Depending on your air fryer size, you may need to cook in batches.

Lightly spray the tops of the croquettes with cooking spray—this helps achieve that golden-brown, crispy exterior. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. The salmon croquettes are done when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F and display a beautiful golden crust on both sides.

Pro Tips for the Crispiest Results

Don’t skip the breadcrumb coating. After forming your patties, roll them lightly in additional panko breadcrumbs before air frying. This creates an extra-crispy exterior that rivals deep-fried versions. For an even crunchier coating, dip the patties in beaten egg first, then coat with seasoned breadcrumbs.

Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Proper air circulation is essential for even cooking and crispiness. Leave at least half an inch between each croquette. If you’re exploring different ways to prepare salmon in your air fryer, check out these creative air fryer salmon recipes for more inspiration on cooking salmon to perfection with minimal effort.

For the best texture, use a combination of regular breadcrumbs mixed with panko in a 1:1 ratio. The regular breadcrumbs help bind the mixture, while panko provides the crunch. Season your breadcrumbs with a pinch of salt, pepper, and garlic powder for extra flavor.

Variations and Flavor Combinations

Transform your basic salmon croquettes recipe by experimenting with different seasonings and mix-ins. For Mediterranean-style croquettes, add chopped fresh dill, feta cheese, and a touch of lemon zest. Asian-inspired versions can include ginger, green onions, sesame oil, and a dash of soy sauce. Creole salmon cakes benefit from Cajun seasoning, diced jalapeños, and a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Consider adding finely shredded vegetables like zucchini or carrots for extra nutrition and moisture. Fresh herbs such as parsley, cilantro, or chives elevate the flavor profile. For a gluten-free version, substitute almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers for breadcrumbs.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Air fryer salmon croquettes are incredibly versatile and can be served in numerous ways. Classic preparations include pairing them with tartar sauce, remoulade, or a simple lemon-dill yogurt sauce. Serve them on brioche buns with lettuce, tomato, and red onion for delicious salmon burgers.

For a lighter meal, serve the croquettes over a fresh green salad with cucumber, avocado, and a citrus vinaigrette. They also make excellent appetizers when formed into smaller, bite-sized portions. Pair with coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or sweet potato fries for a complete dinner.

Consider serving them as part of a seafood platter alongside grilled shrimp or fish tacos. For brunch, place a salmon croquette under a poached egg with hollandaise sauce for an elegant eggs Benedict variation. The crispy exterior and tender interior make them perfect for dipping in spicy aioli, chipotle mayo, or classic cocktail sauce.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

One of the best features of salmon croquettes is their make-ahead friendly nature. Prepare the mixture and form the patties up to 24 hours in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator until ready to cook. This makes them perfect for busy weeknight dinners or entertaining.

Cooked salmon croquettes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to restore their crispiness. For longer storage, freeze the uncooked formed patties on a baking sheet, then transfer to freezer bags once solid. They’ll keep for up to three months. Cook frozen croquettes directly in the air fryer, adding 2-3 minutes to the cooking time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

The most common mistake when making air fryer salmon croquettes is using a mixture that’s too wet. This results in patties that fall apart during cooking. If your mixture seems loose, add breadcrumbs one tablespoon at a time until it holds together properly. Conversely, a mixture that’s too dry will create tough, crumbly croquettes—add a bit more mayo or an extra egg yolk to achieve the right consistency.

Another frequent error is flipping the croquettes too early or too roughly. Wait until they’re golden and set on one side before gently turning them with a spatula. Skipping the chilling step often leads to patties that lose their shape, so always allow time for refrigeration.

Don’t forget to preheat your air fryer. Starting with a cold basket can cause the croquettes to stick and cook unevenly. Finally, resist overcooking—salmon dries out quickly, so remove the croquettes as soon as they reach 145°F internally and develop a golden crust.

Health Benefits of Air Fried Salmon Croquettes

Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality protein, and essential vitamins and minerals. Air frying preserves these nutrients while significantly reducing the fat content compared to traditional deep frying. Each serving of air fryer salmon croquettes provides approximately 20-25 grams of protein, making them an excellent choice for muscle maintenance and satiety.

The air fryer cooking method requires minimal added oil, resulting in croquettes that contain about 150-200 calories each, depending on size and ingredients used. By choosing whole grain breadcrumbs and adding vegetables to the mixture, you can increase the fiber content and nutritional value. This makes salmon croquettes a smart option for those following heart-healthy or weight-conscious diets.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen salmon for croquettes? Yes, but thaw it completely first, then drain thoroughly to remove excess moisture. Pat the salmon very dry with paper towels before incorporating into your mixture.

What temperature should I cook salmon croquettes in the air fryer? The optimal temperature is 375°F. This creates a crispy exterior while ensuring the interior cooks through without drying out. Some air fryers run hot, so if your croquettes brown too quickly, reduce to 360°F.

How do I prevent salmon croquettes from falling apart? Use adequate binding ingredients like eggs and breadcrumbs, chill the formed patties before cooking, and avoid flipping too early. The mixture should be moist but not wet, and hold together when pressed.

Can I make salmon croquettes without eggs? Absolutely. Substitute with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water), or use additional mayonnaise or mashed avocado as a binder. The texture may be slightly different but still delicious.

Final Thoughts

Mastering salmon croquettes in the air fryer opens up a world of quick, healthy, and flavorful meal possibilities. This cooking method delivers crispy, golden-brown results with minimal oil and maximum convenience. Whether you’re batch-cooking for meal prep, creating a weeknight family dinner, or preparing elegant appetizers for entertaining, air fryer salmon croquettes never disappoint.

The versatility of this recipe allows endless customization to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. With proper technique—the right moisture balance, adequate chilling time, and careful attention to cooking temperature—you’ll achieve restaurant-quality salmon patties every time. Keep experimenting with different seasonings, vegetables, and serving styles to make this recipe your own.

Give this healthy, delicious, and time-saving cooking method a try. Your air fryer will become your go-to tool for creating perfectly crispy salmon croquettes that the whole family will love. From traditional preparations to creative variations, these golden-brown patties prove that healthy cooking doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or texture.