Introduction
When it comes to family meals that are both easy and budget-friendly, a salmon loaf recipe might not be the first thing that comes to mind—but it should be! This unique recipe combines the savory, flaky goodness of salmon with a crispy crust of parmesan, panko crumbs, and fresh herbs for a dish that’s satisfying, nutritious, and full of flavor. Using pantry-friendly ingredients, this salmon loaf recipe is perfect for those nights when you want to whip up something healthy without a ton of effort or cost.
Not only is this salmon loaf recipe a great way to incorporate more omega-3 fatty acids, but it’s also versatile. Pair it with a fresh salad, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. Plus, with some simple ingredient swaps, you can adjust this salmon loaf recipe to fit different dietary needs and flavor preferences. Ready to find your next favorite dinner? Let’s dive into the details of this easy salmon loaf recipe.
Recipe Card
Description: A delicious, inexpensive, and easy-to-make salmon loaf recipe combining canned salmon, parmesan cheese, and panko crumbs, baked until golden brown for a satisfying meal that’s both nutritious and affordable.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 8 servings
- Calories: 113 kcal per serving
Ingredients:
- 3 cans of salmon
- One and a half cups panko or bread crumbs
- 1 ½ cups grated parmesan cheese
- 2 green onions, chopped small
- ½ cup diced yellow onion, very finely diced
- ½ cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- One teaspoon of fresh or dried dill weed
- 1 tsp dried parsley (or fresh parsley)
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp ground black pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a loaf pan with foil or parchment paper, then lightly spray the inside with cooking oil to prevent sticking.
- Drain the cans of salmon and place them in a large bowl. Using a fork, flake the salmon thoroughly into small crumbles.
- Add the bread crumbs, parmesan, green onions, yellow onion, dill, parsley, salt, and pepper to the flaked salmon. Stir well to combine.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and milk together until fully blended, then pour over the salmon mixture. Mix thoroughly.
- Spoon the mixture into the loaf pan, pressing it down firmly with a spatula to ensure a dense texture.
- The top should be golden brown and just beginning to crisp up after 45 to 55 minutes of baking.
- Before slicing, allow the loaf to cool in the pan for approximately ten minutes. Enjoy with your favorite sauce!
Notes:
- Flake the Salmon Thoroughly: For best results, ensure the salmon is thoroughly crumbled.
- Topping Suggestions: Serve with tartar sauce, Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, ketchup, barbecue sauce, or salsa for added flavor.
- Fresh Salmon Alternative: Substitute canned salmon with about 1 ½ cups of flaked, cooked fresh salmon if preferred.
Nutrition Information
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 113 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Protein: 7g
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0.004g
- Cholesterol: 54mg
- Sodium: 370mg
- Potassium: 104mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Vitamin A: 230 IU
- Vitamin C: 1 mg
- Calcium: 157 mg
- Iron: 1 mg
Why You’ll Love This Salmon Loaf Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This salmon loaf recipe is prepped in less than 10 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.
- Budget-Friendly: With affordable ingredients like canned salmon and pantry staples, it’s easy on your wallet.
- Nutritious: Packed with protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins, this loaf is as healthy as it is tasty.
- Versatile: This salmon loaf recipe pairs well with a variety of sides and sauces.
- Kid-Friendly: With its mild flavor and satisfying texture, even the pickiest eaters might ask for seconds!
Key Ingredients and Substitutions
Canned Salmon
Canned salmon is convenient and cost-effective, which is why it’s the base of this salmon loaf recipe. If you prefer, you can substitute fresh salmon. Simply bake a fillet first, flake it, and use about 1 ½ cups of the flaked, cooked salmon.
Parmesan Cheese
Parmesan adds a nutty, savory depth to the salmon loaf recipe. If you’re out of parmesan or want a different flavor, feel free to try cheddar, mozzarella, or even a dairy-free cheese option.
Bread Crumbs or Panko
Bread crumbs help hold this salmon loaf recipe together while providing structure. Panko crumbs, in particular, give a light, crispy texture. For a gluten-free version, simply substitute with gluten-free bread crumbs.
Fresh Herbs
Adding fresh herbs like dill and parsley not only enhances the flavor of the salmon loaf recipe but also gives a pop of color. Dried herbs work well in a pinch, though fresh is always preferred if you have it on hand.
How to Make This Salmon Loaf Recipe (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a loaf pan with foil or parchment paper to prevent sticking, and give it a light spray with cooking oil.
Step 2: Drain the salmon and flake it with a fork until it’s broken down into small, crumbly pieces. This step is essential for a smooth, even texture in the finished salmon loaf recipe.
Step 3: Add bread crumbs, parmesan, green onions, yellow onion, dill, parsley, salt, and black pepper to the bowl with the salmon. Mix well to combine the ingredients evenly.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. Pour this over the salmon mixture and stir thoroughly until all ingredients are moistened and well-blended.
Step 5: Spoon the mixture into the prepared loaf pan, pressing down with a spatula to pack it firmly. This helps the salmon loaf recipe hold its shape during baking.
Step 6: Bake in the oven for 45-55 minutes. The loaf should be golden brown on top with slightly crispy edges. If it’s browning too quickly, cover with foil for the last 10 minutes.
Step 7: Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a plate and slice. Serve with your choice of sauce or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for added flavor.
Expert Tips for Success
- Flake the Salmon Well: This simple step ensures that the salmon loaf recipe has a smooth, cohesive texture. Break up any big piece with a fork.
- Add Lemon for Freshness: After baking, a squeeze of lemon juice brings a burst of brightness that complements the richness of the salmon.
- Monitor the Baking Time: If the top begins to brown too quickly, cover it with foil to prevent over-browning.
Variations and Customizations
- Gluten-Free Option: To make this salmon loaf recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free bread crumbs or panko.
- Mix in Tuna: Canned tuna can be mixed with the salmon for a different flavor profile. This option also keeps the recipe budget-friendly.
- Add Vegetables: Try adding finely diced bell peppers, carrots, or celery for a colorful, nutrient-packed twist.
- Spicy Salmon Loaf: For a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the salmon mixture.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator: Store any leftover slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days.
Freezer: Wrap each slice individually with plastic wrap or parchment paper, then place in a freezer bag. You can freeze the slices for up to three months.
Reheating: For the best texture, pan-fry leftover slices in a little oil to bring back their crispiness. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F or use the microwave.
Serving Suggestions
This salmon loaf recipe pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, making it a versatile main dish that can be enjoyed with different flavors and textures. Here are some delicious serving suggestions:
- Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or even roasted sweet potatoes add color and flavor to your plate, and their subtle sweetness balances the savory notes of the salmon loaf recipe.
- Side Salad: A light and crisp salad, perhaps with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a simple lemon vinaigrette, offers a refreshing contrast to the rich loaf. You could also go with a Greek-style salad for a Mediterranean twist.
- Mashed Potatoes or Cauliflower Mash: The creamy texture of mashed potatoes or a healthier cauliflower mash complements the flaky salmon loaf recipe, creating a balanced, comforting meal.
- Rice or Quinoa: A fluffy serving of rice or quinoa makes for a filling side and pairs well with salmon’s flavors. For an extra burst of flavor, try cooking the rice with a bit of vegetable broth or adding herbs like parsley and cilantro.
- Sautéed Spinach or Kale: Leafy greens sautéed with garlic and a splash of olive oil bring a nutrient-packed side that’s perfect for a well-rounded dinner. They add a pop of color to the plate, and their mild bitterness complements the salmon’s richness.
- Tartar Sauce or Greek Yogurt Dip: As a final touch, serve this salmon loaf recipe with a sauce or dip to enhance the flavors. Tartar sauce, Greek yogurt mixed with herbs, or even a simple aioli pairs well and brings added zest to each bite.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is it possible to substitute canned salmon with fresh salmon?
Yes, absolutely! You can substitute canned salmon with fresh salmon in this salmon loaf recipe. Simply bake a salmon fillet first, then flake it with a fork. You’ll need about 1 ½ cups of flaked, cooked salmon to get the right texture and flavor.
Can tuna and salmon be used in the same loaf recipe?
Yes, you can mix tuna and salmon in this salmon loaf recipe for a unique flavor combination. Simply swap out half of the canned salmon with canned tuna. This mixture works well, and both fish provide a flaky texture and subtle flavor that complements the other ingredients.
What type of salmon should I use for the best flavor?
Both red and pink salmon varieties work well in this salmon loaf recipe. Red salmon is richer and has a bolder flavor, while pink salmon is milder. Either type will make a delicious loaf, so choose based on your preference.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! To make this salmon loaf recipe dairy-free, you can use a dairy-free cheese substitute or simply omit the cheese. Additionally, substitute the milk with almond or oat milk to keep it moist without dairy.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover salmon loaf?
For a crispy texture, pan-fry the slices in a little oil until warm. Alternatively, reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes or in the microwave for a quick warm-up.
Related Recipes
If you enjoyed this salmon loaf recipe, you might also like these easy and budget-friendly recipes:
- Classic Meatloaf with a Twist: Try this traditional comfort food with a blend of spices and vegetables for added flavor.
- Tuna Patties: Another great canned fish recipe, these tuna patties are quick to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
- Baked Cod with a Parmesan Crust: A light, flaky fish recipe that’s full of flavor and quick to prepare.
- Quinoa and Salmon Salad: A refreshing option that combines cooked salmon, quinoa, and fresh veggies for a nutrient-dense meal.
- Mediterranean Salmon Bake: Baked with tomatoes, olives, and herbs, this dish captures the flavors of the Mediterranean in every bite.
Conclusion
This salmon loaf recipe is a wonderful example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly delicious. It’s budget-friendly, nutritious, and versatile, making it a great choice for anyone looking to add more seafood to their diet. Whether you serve it with a fresh salad, roasted veggies, or a creamy side like mashed potatoes, this salmon loaf recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
So the next time you’re on the hunt for an easy, healthy, and satisfying meal, give this salmon loaf recipe a try. In your kitchen, it might end up being a new favorite! Don’t forget to share your experience, and feel free to experiment with the suggested variations to make this dish truly your own. Enjoy your meal and happy cooking!
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