Salmon Loaf Recipe: A Scrumptious and Economical Delight!

Salmon loaf might sound retro, but this affordable, easy-to-make dish has a surprising charm. Made with canned salmon, parmesan cheese, and fragrant herbs, this meal is both hearty and flavorful—ideal for a busy weeknight. Whether you’re trying to add more fish to your diet or seeking a quick recipe that tastes gourmet, this fish Loaf is a wonderful addition to your meal rotation. It’s rich in omega-3s, satisfying, and can be dressed up with various sauces or toppings to make every bite burst with flavor.

Recipe Card

Salmon Loaf

Chef Sarah

Salmon loaf is a classic comfort food recipe made with canned salmon, parmesan cheese, and a touch of seasoning, giving it a unique twist on traditional meatloaf.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 50 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 8

Calories 113 kcal

Equipment

• Loaf Pan: Use a non-stick loaf pan for easy cleanup and even cooking.
• Measuring Spoons: Essential for precise ingredient portions.
• Mixing Bowls: Three stackable, durable bowls for easy preparation and pouring.
• Cheese Grater: Preferably one with a storage container to minimize mess.

Ingredients

  

• 3 cans of salmon
• 1 ½ cups panko crumbs or bread crumbs
• 1 ½ cups grated parmesan cheese
• 2 green onions finely chopped
• ½ cup yellow onion finely diced
• ½ cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp dried dill weed or fresh dill
• 1 tsp dried parsley or fresh parsley
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp ground black pepper

Instructions

 

• Prep the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a loaf pan with foil or parchment paper and lightly spray the inside for easy removal.
• Prepare the Salmon: Drain the canned salmon, then use a fork to flake it into small crumbles in a large mixing bowl.
• Combine Dry Ingredients: To the flaked salmon, add the panko crumbs, parmesan cheese, green onions, yellow onion, dill, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly.
• Add the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and milk until well combined. Pour this mixture over the salmon and mix again until evenly incorporated.
• Form the Loaf: Pour the salmon mixture into the prepared loaf pan, pressing it down firmly with a spatula.
• Bake: Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. If the loaf is browning too quickly, cover with foil for the final 10 minutes of baking.
• Serve: Let the salmon loaf cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm, ideally topped with your favorite sauce or fresh lemon juice.

Notes

• Texture Tip: Be sure to flake the salmon thoroughly. Smaller pieces will help the loaf hold together better.
• Flavor Enhancers: This dish shines with a touch of tartar sauce, Greek yogurt, or a squeeze of lemon juice.

Keyword Baked salmon dish, Easy salmon recipe, Salmon loaf, Salmon loaf recipe

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Why You’ll Love This Salmon Loaf Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Minimal prep and a one-bowl setup make this salmon loaf recipe a breeze to put together.
• Budget-Friendly: Canned salmon is affordable and doesn’t compromise on nutrition or taste, making this a great salmon loaf for families on a budget.
• Family Favorite: With flavors both kids and adults love, it’s bound to become a household staple.
• Nutritious and Delicious: Salmon loaf provides protein and omega-3s, while panko crumbs add a satisfying crunch.
• Customizable: Adapt the herbs and sauces to make this salmon loaf your own!

Key Ingredients and Substitutions

• Canned Salmon: Canned salmon is convenient and affordable. If you prefer fresh, bake the fillet first, then flake it for the salmon loaf.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a subtle richness. You can substitute with cheddar for a different flavor profile in your salmon loaf recipe.
• Panko Crumbs: These provide a light, crispy texture. Regular bread crumbs work well as a substitute.
• Dried Dill and Parsley: These herbs add freshness to the salmon loaf. Swap with other herbs like basil or thyme if desired.
• Milk and Eggs: Essential for binding the loaf together and keeping it moist.

How to Make Salmon Loaf Recipe (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan

Line your loaf pan with foil or parchment, and preheat the oven to 350°F. Spray the pan lightly with oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Flake the Salmon

Drain the cans and add the salmon to a large mixing bowl. Flake it into small, fine pieces using a fork. Small pieces help create a more cohesive salmon loaf.

Step 3: Mix in Dry Ingredients

Add the panko crumbs, parmesan cheese, green onions, yellow onion, dill, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir well, ensuring the seasonings and crumbs are evenly distributed.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

In a small bowl, beat the eggs with the milk. Pour this mixture over the dry ingredients in the mixing bowl. Stir until everything is fully combined.

Step 5: Form the Salmon Loaf

Scoop the salmon mixture into the prepared pan. Use a spatula to press down firmly, creating an even salmon loaf shape.

Step 6: Bake

Bake the salmon loaf for 45-55 minutes. Cover the loaf with foil for the last 10 minutes if the edges begin to brown too quickly. When done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Expert Tips for Success

Flaking the Salmon: Don’t skip this step! Flaking the salmon into small pieces gives the loaf its texture and prevents it from falling apart.

Pack the Loaf Firmly: Press the mixture into the pan tightly to help the loaf maintain its shape as it bakes.

Experiment with Seasonings: Add garlic powder, a pinch of cayenne, or fresh herbs for extra depth of flavor

Serving Suggestions

This salmon loaf is versatile and pairs well with various side dishes. For a refreshing option, serve it alongside a leafy green salad with lemon vinaigrette, balancing the richness of the salmon. Steamed or roasted vegetables, such as carrots or broccoli, make excellent accompaniments, as do mashed or roasted potatoes for a comforting touch. To enhance the salmon loaf, try drizzling it with a homemade lemon-butter sauce or serving it with tartar sauce, Greek yogurt, or spicy salsa. A warm slice of crusty bread or a soft dinner roll can soak up the loaf’s juices, adding to the dish’s savoriness. These suggestions make your salmon loaf a delightful centerpiece for any meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned salmon?
A: Absolutely! Using fresh salmon gives the loaf a slightly different texture and taste. Bake the fillet first, flake it with a fork, and substitute the canned salmon with about 1 ½ cups of fresh, cooked, and flaked salmon. This simple swap elevates the dish with a fresh flavor.

Q: How can I make this salmon loaf gluten-free?
A: Making this recipe gluten-free is simple! Just replace the panko or breadcrumbs with a gluten-free alternative. Gluten-free panko is widely available, and it maintains the dish’s texture without compromising flavor.

Q: Can I prepare the loaf in advance?
A: Yes, you can! Assemble the loaf mixture ahead of time and store it, covered, in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. This makes it an easy, make-ahead dish that’s ideal for busy schedules or meal prep.

Q: What sauces pair well with this salmon loaf?
A: Salmon loaf pairs well with classic tartar sauce, a squeeze of lemon juice, Greek yogurt, or even a mild salsa for a hint of spice.

Conclusion

This Salmon Loaf Recipe is not just a quick meal; it’s healthy, budget-friendly, and perfect for any occasion. With simple, accessible ingredients, it caters to both novice and experienced cooks. Whether you stick to the classic panko and parmesan or add your twist, each salmon loaf delivers delightful flavor and texture. The combination of rich salmon, savory herbs, and tangy parmesan makes it appealing to everyone. Plus, with versatile serving options, it’s adaptable to any preference. So gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and enjoy a warm slice of this comforting salmon loaf. This dish is bound to become a regular favorite in your kitchen!