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An extreme close-up of a crispy salmon ball, showing the flaky interior texture and golden-brown exterior.

Salmon Balls Recipe (Crispy, Easy & Delicious!)

This easy Salmon Balls Recipe creates crispy, flavorful bites perfect as an appetizer or main course. Learn how to fry, bake, or air fry them to golden perfection. Made with fresh or canned salmon, these are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 20 balls
Course: Appetizer, Main Course, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 45
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb salmon cooked and flaked (fresh or canned)
  • 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 shallot finely minced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh dill chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp fresh dill chopped
  • 1 clove garlic minced

Equipment

  • 1 Large Bowl
  • 1 Frying Pan / Baking Sheet / Air Fryer

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, gently mix the flaked salmon, Panko breadcrumbs, egg, mayonnaise, shallot, garlic, herbs, lemon juice, and seasonings until just combined. Do not overmix.
  2. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the mixture to firm up.
  3. Roll the chilled mixture into 1.5-inch balls.
  4. Fry in 350°F oil for 3-4 minutes, bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, or air fry at 375°F for 8-12 minutes, until golden brown and crispy.
  5. While the salmon balls cook, whisk together all ingredients for the Lemon-Dill Aioli in a small bowl.
  6. Serve the hot salmon balls immediately with the dipping sauce.

Notes

Tip 1: For extra crispy salmon balls, you can lightly roll them in additional Panko breadcrumbs before cooking.
Tip 2: Ensure your salmon is well-drained and flaked to prevent the mixture from being too wet.
Tip 3: A small cookie scoop can help you create uniformly sized balls for even cooking.