Carol's Creole Salmon Croquettes

4 servings Prep: 20 m Cook: 10 m Total: 30 m Intermediate
5.0/5 (1)
Salmon croquettes with a Creole seafood surprise—loaded with shrimp, crabmeat, and salmon mixed with the holy trinity, seasoned with Tony’s, and pan-fried to golden perfection. These hearty seafood patties make a satisfying meal any time.

Ingredients

4 servings
  • 1 14 oz can salmon, drained
  • 1 pound shrimp, chopped
  • 2 cans crabmeat, drained
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1/4 cup diced yellow onion, celery, & bell pepper
  • 1 green onion chopped
  • 1 tbsp parsley chopped fine
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 cup evaporated milk
  • 1/2 tsp Tony's or Cajun seasoning
  • 3 sleeves of whole wheat Ritz crackers grounded

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. In a medium glass bowl, drain, flake and combine all seafood (salmon, shrimp, and crabmeat).
  2. Add remaining ingredients (garlic, onion mixture, green onion, parsley, egg, evaporated milk, Tony’s seasoning, and ground crackers), making certain that crackers are ground well. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
  3. Form mixture into 1/2" thick patties and pan fry in Crisco shortening over medium heat, 5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
  4. Drain on paper towels and serve hot. Serve with coleslaw, fresh sliced green apples and sweet iced tea.

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Why are my croquettes falling apart in the pan?

A: Make sure the crackers are ground very fine and the mixture is well combined. The egg and evaporated milk act as binders. If the mixture seems too wet, add more ground crackers. Chill the formed patties for 15-20 minutes before frying to help them hold together better.

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?

A: Yes! Form the patties and refrigerate them on a parchment-lined baking sheet for up to 24 hours before frying. You can also freeze uncooked patties for up to 2 months—just thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.

Tips and Techniques

Don’t overmix the seafood mixture or the croquettes will be dense. Fold ingredients together gently just until combined. Make sure your oil is hot enough (around 350°F) before adding the patties so they’ll form a nice crust without absorbing too much grease.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • whole wheat Ritz crackers: regular Ritz crackers, saltine crackers, or panko breadcrumbs
  • evaporated milk: regular milk or half-and-half
  • canned salmon: fresh cooked salmon, flaked

Equipment Needed

  • medium glass bowl
  • frying pan or skillet
  • paper towels for draining

Historical Context

Croquettes were a common way for Louisiana cooks to stretch expensive seafood into more servings, combining canned salmon with fresh Gulf shrimp and crab for a meal that felt special even on a budget.