Canned salmon is a budget-friendly pantry staple that offers incredible versatility in the kitchen. From creamy dips and hearty chowders to flavorful patties and pasta dishes, this affordable protein can transform everyday meals into something special.
You can create delicious, nutritious meals in minutes using canned salmon without compromising on taste or quality.
Many home cooks overlook canned salmon, but it’s packed with the same omega-3 fatty acids and nutrients as fresh salmon at a fraction of the cost. The mild flavor means it works well with many ingredients and cooking styles.
Whether you’re making a quick lunch or impressive dinner, these recipes will help you make the most of this convenient ingredient.
1. Salmon Quiche
Salmon quiche makes a tasty meal using canned salmon. You can create this dish easily with basic ingredients like eggs, cheese, and milk or cream.
Most recipes call for a pie crust as the base. You can use store-bought refrigerated crusts to save time.
The generous amount of cream in quiche recipes helps prevent overcooking. Swiss cheese and cheddar both work well with salmon flavor.
For a fun party option, try making mini salmon quiches. They’re perfect for serving as appetizers or for brunch gatherings.
This affordable dish transforms canned salmon into something special that feels more elegant than its simple ingredients suggest.
2. Salmon Cakes
Salmon cakes are a budget-friendly meal that transforms canned salmon into delicious patties. You can make them easily with ingredients you likely have at home.
The basic recipe includes canned salmon (preferably wild red salmon), mayonnaise, eggs, breadcrumbs, and seasonings like garlic powder and Dijon mustard. Some recipes add diced vegetables like onions and bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.
To prepare, mix all ingredients in a bowl, form into patties, and cook until golden brown. These versatile cakes can be served with a salad, on a bun, or with a side of vegetables for a quick weeknight dinner.
3. Salmon Casseroles
Salmon casseroles are perfect comfort food that transforms canned salmon into a hearty meal. They’re easy to make and budget-friendly too.
J-Lyn’s Awesome Salmon Casserole combines canned salmon with macaroni and mushroom soup, elevated with Parmesan cheese and French-fried onions for extra flavor and crunch. It’s a family-friendly option that comes together quickly.
You can customize salmon casseroles with different pasta shapes, vegetables, or cheese blends. Try adding peas, broccoli, or spinach for extra nutrition.
Most salmon casseroles freeze well, making them excellent make-ahead meals for busy weeknights. Simply reheat when you need a quick, satisfying dinner.
4. Smoked Salmon Dip
Smoked salmon dip is a creamy, flavorful appetizer that’s perfect for parties or snacks. You can make it quickly with canned smoked salmon, cream cheese, and a few simple ingredients.
Mix the salmon with softened cream cheese, then add dill and capers for a traditional flavor profile. Some recipes include a touch of lemon juice to brighten the taste.
This versatile dip works well with crackers, bagels, or fresh vegetables. You can prepare it in just minutes, making it ideal for last-minute gatherings.
For extra flavor, try adding minced garlic or a dash of hot sauce. The dip keeps well in the refrigerator for several days.
5. Salmon Ochazuke
Salmon ochazuke is a traditional Japanese dish that combines steamed rice, salted or grilled salmon, and tea. It’s a comforting light porridge that’s easy to make with canned salmon.
To prepare it, place warm rice in a bowl and top with flaked canned salmon. Pour hot green tea (sencha or genmaicha works well) over the mixture.
Add toppings like sesame seeds, nori strips, or a sprinkle of wasabi for extra flavor. This simple dish makes a quick, wholesome meal that’s perfect when you want something light and soothing.
You can meal prep the components ahead of time for an even faster comfort food option.
6. Crock Pot Scalloped Potatoes with Salmon
This easy slow cooker dish combines creamy scalloped potatoes with flavorful canned salmon and sun-dried tomatoes. It’s a perfect way to transform your pantry staples into a complete meal.
In a 6-quart programmable slow cooker, this dish takes about 2.5 hours to complete. The potatoes cook to perfect tenderness while absorbing the salmon flavors.
To make this recipe, you’ll need thinly sliced potatoes, canned salmon, and onions layered in your slow cooker. Some recipes add cheese and herbs for extra flavor.
This method saves oven space and creates a creamy, satisfying dish. It’s both easy and healthy, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
7. Baked Salmon
Baked canned salmon offers an easy, no-fuss dinner option when you’re short on time. Simply mix the drained salmon with breadcrumbs, eggs, lemon juice, and your favorite herbs.
Press the mixture into a baking dish and bake at 375°F for about 20 minutes until golden. This method masks any fishiness while bringing out salmon’s natural flavors.
You can also create a salmon loaf by adding more binding ingredients like mayonnaise and extra breadcrumbs. Top with a light sauce made from yogurt and dill for extra flavor.
For a complete meal, serve your baked salmon with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple green salad.
8. Salmon Pasta with Spinach & Lemon
Canned salmon pasta with spinach and lemon is a quick, healthy dinner you can make in about 20 minutes. This dish combines everyday ingredients to create something both simple and elegant.
The recipe typically uses olive oil, pasta of your choice, canned salmon, fresh spinach, and bright lemon flavors. Some versions also include broccoli for extra nutrition.
The creamy texture pairs beautifully with the smoky salmon flavor, while the lemon adds a refreshing zing.
You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences or what you have available in your pantry.
9. Salmon Salad Sandwiches
Salmon salad sandwiches are quick to make and full of flavor. You can create them in just 5 minutes using canned pink salmon.
The basic recipe combines drained canned salmon with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and fresh lemon juice. For texture and taste, add chopped celery and red onion.
Many recipes also include diced pickles, herbs like chives and parsley, and seasonings such as salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Some versions add Parmesan cheese or goat cheese for extra flavor.
These sandwiches provide healthy omega-3 fatty acids from the salmon. They’re perfect for meal prep or a fast lunch option.
10. Crispy Salmon Patties
Salmon patties are a quick and satisfying meal you can make with basic ingredients. Canned salmon forms the base of these golden-brown delights.
Mix your canned salmon with panko breadcrumbs for the crispiest texture. Add finely chopped onions, an egg, and some parsley to enhance the flavor profile.
For extra taste, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the mixture. These patties cook quickly – just a few minutes on each side until golden-brown.
Serve your crispy salmon patties alongside a creamy sauce or with a simple side salad. They make a protein-rich dinner option that’s both economical and delicious.
11. Salmon Linguine
Salmon linguine is a quick and tasty dinner option that takes only 20 minutes to prepare. This pasta dish combines canned salmon with a light sauce for a meal that feels fancy but is actually simple.
To make salmon linguine, cook the pasta according to package directions. While it cooks, prepare a sauce with olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice.
Add the drained canned salmon to your sauce, breaking it into chunks. For extra nutrition, toss in some spinach or broccoli until wilted.
Mix everything with the cooked linguine and finish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and black pepper. This dish is perfect when you need a fast but satisfying meal.
12. Salmon Burgers
Salmon burgers are a quick and protein-rich meal you can make with canned salmon. They’re perfect when you want a healthier alternative to beef burgers.
To make them, mix canned salmon with breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings. Add some diced bell peppers and onions for extra flavor and nutrition.
Many recipes include Dijon mustard and a bit of mayonnaise to help bind everything together and add moisture. Shape the mixture into patties and cook them in a skillet until golden brown.
Serve your salmon burgers on buns with a creamy dill sauce or simple slaw for a complete meal. They come together in about 30 minutes, making them ideal for busy weeknights.
13. Spicy Salmon Roll
Canned salmon makes an excellent substitute for raw fish in homemade sushi rolls. Mix drained canned salmon with mayonnaise, sriracha, and a dash of soy sauce for a spicy filling.
Add crunchy elements like julienned carrots, cucumber strips, or even jalapeños to give your roll texture and freshness. The contrasting textures make each bite more interesting.
Spread sushi rice on a nori sheet, add your salmon mixture and veggies, then roll it up tightly. Slice into rounds or enjoy it burrito-style for an easy lunch option.
These spicy salmon rolls work great as a party appetizer or quick weeknight dinner when you’re craving sushi but want to use pantry staples.
14. Salmon Tacos
Salmon tacos offer a delicious twist on traditional fish tacos. You can make them with either canned salmon or fresh baked salmon, depending on what you have available.
For quick weeknight meals, canned salmon works perfectly. Simply mix it with taco seasoning, lime juice, and olive oil for an effortless filling.
Fresh salmon tacos can be ready in about 30 minutes. Season and bake the salmon until flaky, then break it into pieces to fill your tortillas.
Pair your salmon with corn tortillas and toppings like mango-corn salsa, black beans, avocado slaw, or cucumber for fresh flavor. These tacos are both impressive and easy to prepare.
15. Salmon Stir-fry
Salmon stir-fry is a quick and nutritious dinner option that’s ready in about 30 minutes. You can use canned or pouched salmon to make this meal even more convenient.
Start by heating oil in a pan with garlic and sliced onions. Add your drained canned salmon and fry for a few minutes.
Mix in your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas. For extra flavor, add some curry powder or your preferred stir-fry sauce.
Serve your salmon stir-fry over rice or quinoa for a complete meal. This dish provides a good balance of protein, healthy fats, and vegetables in one simple dinner.
16. Salmon and Rice Bowl
Want a quick meal that’s both tasty and nutritious? Salmon and rice bowls are your answer. This viral TikTok-inspired dish takes just minutes to prepare.
Mix canned salmon with mayo and sriracha for a spicy kick. Place it over warm rice for a filling base.
Add fresh vegetables like cucumber for crunch. This high-protein, budget-friendly meal works great for lunch or dinner.
You can customize it with whatever veggies you have on hand. Try different flavors by adding rice vinegar or cooking your rice in bone broth for extra nutrition.
This simple bowl is perfect for meal prep too. You’ll have a protein-packed meal ready whenever hunger strikes.
17. Salmon Frittata
Salmon frittata is a versatile dish that works for any meal of the day. It transforms canned salmon into a protein-packed, flavorful meal with minimal effort.
To make this dish, press canned salmon into the bottom of an oven-safe dish. Layer in greens and mushrooms if desired.
Pour beaten eggs over the salmon mixture. Many recipes call for adding cottage cheese to make the frittata extra creamy and rich. For added flavor, include herbs and spices of your choice.
Bake your frittata at 350°F until the center is set and a knife comes out clean. Serve with a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
18. Salmon Chowder
Salmon chowder is a perfect way to transform canned salmon into a comforting meal. This creamy, hearty soup comes together quickly and makes an excellent dinner option when you’re short on time.
To make a basic salmon chowder, you’ll need canned salmon, potatoes, onions, and a creamy base. Many recipes use bottled clam juice to enhance the seafood flavor.
You can prepare salmon chowder in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights. The Instant Pot version is especially quick if you own one.
This dish is both budget-friendly and satisfying. The rich, creamy texture pairs perfectly with the salmon’s flavor for a comforting meal any time of year.
19. Lemon Dill Salmon
Lemon dill salmon is a refreshing and easy dish to make with canned salmon. The bright citrus flavor of lemon pairs perfectly with the herbaceous taste of dill.
You can create this dish by mixing canned salmon with melted butter, lemon juice, dried dill weed, and a touch of garlic powder. These simple ingredients bring out the natural flavors of the salmon.
For a gluten-free option, try making lemon dill salmon croquettes using pre-seasoned salmon, eggs, and gluten-free bread crumbs. This makes a quick weeknight dinner that’s both nutritious and delicious.
This versatile recipe works well as a main dish or can be used in sandwiches for a tasty lunch option.
20. Salmon Sushi Bake
Salmon sushi bake transforms traditional sushi into an easy, warm casserole. You simply layer seasoned sushi rice on the bottom, then add a creamy salmon mixture on top.
You can use canned boneless, skinless salmon mixed with Japanese mayo and sriracha for the perfect balance of flavor. Some recipes include cream cheese for extra richness.
Top your sushi bake with everything bagel seasoning, more mayo, or additional sriracha. It’s customizable based on your preferences.
Serve this dish with seaweed sheets for scooping, creating a deconstructed sushi experience that’s perfect for gatherings. It’s a comforting twist on sushi that requires no rolling skills.
21. Herb-Crusted Salmon
Canned salmon transforms into an elegant dish with this herb-crusted recipe. Simply mix breadcrumbs with fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley for a flavorful crust.
Add grated Parmesan to your herb mixture for extra flavor. This creates a crispy, savory coating that complements the salmon perfectly.
Pat your canned salmon dry, then press the herb mixture onto the top. Bake until the crust turns golden brown and crispy.
This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables or a simple salad. You can have this budget-friendly yet impressive meal ready in under 30 minutes.
Health Benefits of Canned Salmon
Canned salmon packs impressive health benefits in a convenient package. This affordable pantry staple offers excellent nutrition while being versatile enough for quick, delicious meals.
Nutritional Value
Canned salmon is exceptionally nutrient-dense. It contains high-quality protein, with a typical 3.5-ounce serving providing about 22 grams. This makes it an excellent option for muscle maintenance and overall health.
The nutritional profile is impressive. Canned salmon supplies vitamin D, which many people lack in their diets. It’s also rich in B vitamins, particularly B12, B6, and niacin, which support energy production and nervous system health.
Minerals abound in canned salmon. You’ll get calcium (especially when the bones are included), potassium, iron, and selenium. The calcium strengthens bones, while selenium acts as an antioxidant in your body.
Unlike many other canned foods, salmon retains most of its nutrients during processing. This makes it a practical choice for getting essential nutrients without much preparation.
Heart Health
Canned salmon stands out for its omega-3 fatty acid content. These healthy fats, particularly EPA and DHA, help reduce inflammation and support heart function. Just two servings of fatty fish like salmon per week can significantly improve your cardiovascular health.
Regular consumption may help lower blood pressure. The omega-3s work together with potassium in salmon to promote healthy blood pressure levels.
Studies show that eating salmon regularly can help improve your cholesterol profile. It may increase HDL (good) cholesterol while reducing triglycerides, both important markers for heart health.
The protein in salmon also supports heart health by helping maintain healthy body weight. Maintaining a healthy weight reduces strain on your cardiovascular system.
Tips for Cooking with Canned Salmon
Canned salmon is versatile, convenient, and packed with nutrition. Making the most of this pantry staple requires knowing how to select quality products and store them properly for maximum freshness and flavor.
Selecting the Best Quality
Look for canned salmon labeled “wild-caught” for better flavor and higher omega-3 content. Varieties include pink, sockeye (red), and chum salmon, with sockeye offering the richest flavor and deepest color.
Check the packaging date to ensure freshness. Cans should be free from dents, rust, or bulging, which might indicate spoilage or contamination.
Consider whether you prefer boneless and skinless varieties or traditional bone-in options. The bones are completely edible, soft, and provide excellent calcium, but some recipes work better with boneless varieties.
Price comparison:
- Budget options: Pink salmon ($2-3 per can)
- Mid-range: Boneless/skinless varieties ($3-5 per can)
- Premium: Wild-caught sockeye ($5-8 per can)
When possible, choose low-sodium options to better control the salt content in your recipes.
Proper Storage Techniques
Unopened canned salmon stays fresh for 3-5 years when kept in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Check cans occasionally for signs of damage or leakage.
Once opened, transfer unused salmon to an airtight glass or plastic container. Refrigerate immediately and use within 3-4 days for best quality and safety.
For longer storage, you can freeze leftover canned salmon:
- Drain thoroughly
- Place in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags
- Remove excess air
- Label with date
- Use within 2-3 months
Frozen salmon works best in cooked recipes rather than cold applications after thawing.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, never at room temperature.
To reduce fishiness, rinse drained salmon under cold water before using in recipes. This helps remove excess salt and oils that contribute to strong flavors.
