Canned salmon is a versatile pantry staple that can transform your everyday meals without breaking the bank. From creamy dips and hearty chowders to flavorful patties and pasta dishes, this affordable protein offers countless possibilities for quick and satisfying recipes.
Whether you’re making salmon mac and cheese, zesty lemon salmon burgers, or a savory salmon loaf, these recipes prove that convenience doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. With simple ingredients and easy preparation methods, these canned salmon recipes are perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike.
1. Classic Salmon Patties with Breadcrumbs and Eggs
Salmon patties are a quick and tasty way to use canned salmon. They’re crispy on the outside and tender inside.
To make them, use canned salmon (typically 14.75 oz), breadcrumbs, eggs, and chopped onions. Some recipes also add mayonnaise for extra moisture.
First, drain the salmon and remove any bones if you prefer. Then mix it with beaten eggs, breadcrumbs, and finely chopped onions or scallions.
Form the mixture into patties and cook them in olive oil until golden brown on both sides. The whole process takes less than 30 minutes.
2. Canned Salmon Quiche with Savory Pastry Base
Canned salmon transforms into an elegant meal when baked into a quiche. You can use a frozen store-bought pie crust to keep things simple or make your own savory pastry base.
Sauté a finely chopped onion in butter until soft. Combine 5 eggs with 2 cups of light cream or evaporated milk for a creamy filling.
Mix in the drained canned salmon, about 2 cups of shredded cheese, and fresh herbs like dill. For extra flavor, add some spinach or chopped scallions.
Pour everything into your prepared crust and bake until golden and set in the center.
3. Healthy Canned Salmon Pasta with Spinach and Broccoli
This quick and easy dinner option combines the convenience of canned salmon with nutritious greens. The recipe features a delicious mix of pasta, salmon, spinach, and broccoli, all brightened with fresh lemon.
You can prepare this meal in just minutes. The olive oil and lemon create a light sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.
Customize this versatile dish with whatever vegetables you have on hand. Tomatoes, kale, or mushrooms work well as additions or substitutes.
4. Salmon Salad Sandwich Filling
Canned salmon makes a fantastic sandwich filling that’s both nutritious and quick to prepare. You can whip it up in just 5 minutes using simple ingredients from your pantry and fridge.
To make salmon salad, drain a can of salmon and mix it with celery, dill, and green onion. Add a creamy dressing made with mayonnaise and lemon juice for tanginess.
Some recipes include goat cheese or red onion for extra flavor. Try adding a teaspoon of malt vinegar and a dash of white pepper for a traditional taste.
Spread it between slices of bread for a satisfying lunch option.
5. Smoked Salmon Dip with Cream Cheese
Smoked salmon dip is a creamy, flavorful appetizer that takes just minutes to prepare. It combines canned salmon with cream cheese for a rich texture and taste that impresses guests.
Mix canned salmon with cream cheese, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and fresh herbs like dill and parsley. Adding garlic enhances the flavor profile.
This dip pairs perfectly with crackers, toasted sourdough, or fresh veggies. Customize it with everything bagel seasoning or use the oil from the tin for extra flavor.
It’s ideal for entertaining and can be made ahead of time for parties or game day gatherings.
6. Crock Pot Scalloped Potatoes with Salmon
This comforting dish combines tender scalloped potatoes with flavorful canned salmon in your slow cooker. It takes about 2.5 hours to complete in a 6-quart programmable slow cooker.
You’ll need 4-5 medium potatoes (peeled and sliced), 3 tablespoons of flour, salt, pepper, and a 16-ounce can of drained, flaked salmon. Some recipes also include sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
Layer your ingredients in the slow cooker and let it do the work for you. The slow cooking process ensures creamy, tender potatoes that complement the salmon perfectly.
7. Salmon Cakes with Fresh Herbs and Lemon Zest
Salmon cakes get a flavor boost when you add fresh herbs and lemon zest to the mix. The bright citrus notes complement the rich salmon perfectly.
Start with canned salmon as your base. Mix in chopped fresh dill, parsley, and chives for a garden-fresh taste.
Add lemon zest for extra brightness. For the best texture, include breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, and a beaten egg to bind everything together.
Add minced garlic and onion for depth. Form the mixture into patties and cook until golden and crispy on both sides.
8. Salmon Linguine with Garlic and Olive Oil
This simple pasta dish combines canned salmon with fresh flavors for a quick weeknight meal. Cook linguine according to package directions.
While the pasta cooks, sauté minced garlic in olive oil until fragrant. Add drained and deboned canned salmon, warming it through gently.
Mix in a splash of chicken broth or lemon juice for extra flavor. Enhance the dish with artichoke hearts, capers, or fresh basil.
Toss the cooked linguine with your salmon mixture until well combined. This meal comes together in about 20 minutes.
9. Salmon Ochazuke (Japanese Rice with Tea and Salmon)
Salmon Ochazuke is a comforting Japanese dish that combines steamed rice, canned salmon, and hot green tea or dashi broth. It’s perfect for a light meal when you want something quick and soothing.
Place cooked rice in a bowl and top with canned salmon. Add toppings like nori (seaweed), scallions, sesame seeds, and a small dab of wasabi if you like a bit of heat.
Pour hot green tea or dashi broth over the rice and salmon. The warm liquid brings all the flavors together, creating a simple porridge-like dish.
10. Canned Salmon and Potato Cakes
Salmon and potato cakes offer a perfect way to transform canned salmon into a delicious meal. These versatile patties combine flaked salmon with mashed potatoes for a hearty texture.
Mix about 14 ounces of canned salmon with 2 cups of mashed potatoes and bind with an egg. Add seasonings like salt, garlic powder, and mustard for flavor.
Form the mixture into patties and pan-fry until golden brown. They freeze well, making them perfect for meal prep.
Serve these salmon potato cakes with a side salad or as a sandwich filling.
11. Spicy Salmon Patties with Cajun Seasoning
Spicy Salmon Patties with Cajun seasoning bring a Louisiana kick to your table. You can make these flavorful patties quickly using canned salmon, breadcrumbs, egg, and mayonnaise as the base.
Mix in Cajun seasoning for that signature heat and flavor. Add chopped green onions for freshness and a bit of mustard for tang.
Serve them with a spicy jalapeno mayonnaise for extra flavor. Enjoy them on a bun as a salmon burger, on top of a salad, or on their own with your favorite sides.
12. Salmon Salad with Avocado and Greek Yogurt
This protein-packed salmon salad combines convenience with nutrition. You can make it quickly using canned salmon, creamy avocado, and tangy Greek yogurt.
Add fresh dill, diced celery, and a squeeze of lemon juice for the best flavor. The celery adds a satisfying crunch while the herbs and citrus brighten the dish.
This salad works well as a sandwich filling or on its own. The Greek yogurt provides a healthier alternative to mayo while still giving you that creamy texture you want.
13. Baked Salmon Patties with Parmesan Crust
These baked salmon patties offer a healthier alternative to fried versions while still delivering amazing flavor. You’ll need about 15 ounces of canned salmon, drained and flaked.
Mix the salmon with two eggs, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and finely chopped onions. Add some Dijon mustard for tang and garlic powder for extra flavor.
Form the mixture into patties and place them on a baking sheet. Sprinkle extra Parmesan on top to create a delicious crispy crust when baked.
Bake at 375°F for about 20 minutes until golden brown.
14. Salmon and Spinach Frittata
A salmon and spinach frittata is a quick and protein-packed dish that’s perfect any time of day. You can have it ready in about 35 minutes.
Combine canned salmon with eggs, cottage cheese, and fresh spinach. Add some basil for extra flavor.
Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish coated with non-stick spray. Bake at 375°F until the eggs are set.
15. Salmon Tacos with Cabbage Slaw
Canned salmon transforms into delicious tacos when paired with a zesty cabbage slaw. This easy meal comes together in about 30 minutes.
Drain your canned salmon and mix it with spices like garlic, cumin, and chipotle for a flavorful filling. A simple slaw made with cabbage, lime juice, and honey adds crunch and freshness.
Top your tacos with a creamy lime crema or sriracha ranch for extra flavor. Use either corn or flour tortillas depending on your preference.
Try adding pineapple or avocado salsa to your salmon tacos for extra flavor.
16. Salmon Croquettes with Dill Sauce
Salmon croquettes with dill sauce offer a quick and delicious meal option using canned salmon. These patties combine salmon with bread crumbs, onion, Dijon mustard, egg, and lemon juice for a flavorful base.
Mix your ingredients together in a bowl, form into patties, and cook in a skillet over medium-high heat until golden brown. The creamy dill sauce pairs perfectly with the salmon, adding a fresh, herby flavor.
Customize them with additional seasonings like garlic powder for extra flavor.
17. Salmon-Stuffed Bell Peppers
Salmon-stuffed bell peppers offer a colorful and nutritious meal option using canned salmon. This dish combines the omega-3 richness of salmon with the sweetness of bell peppers.
To make them, cut bell peppers in half and remove the seeds. Stuff them with a mixture of canned salmon, cooked rice or quinoa, diced vegetables, and seasonings.
Rice or quinoa works well as a base. Vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery add texture.
Top with shredded cheese before baking until the peppers become tender. Customize these stuffed peppers with taco seasoning for a Mexican twist or keep them classic with lemon and herbs.
18. Canned Salmon and Quinoa Salad
Canned salmon and quinoa make a perfect pair in this nutritious salad. This dish combines protein-rich salmon with fluffy quinoa and fresh vegetables for a balanced meal.
Customize this salad with your favorite veggies like cucumber, tomatoes, bell peppers, and arugula. Add edamame for extra protein and texture.
For the dressing, try a simple lemon shallot vinaigrette or a creamy yogurt-based option. Both complement the salmon well.
This salad takes just 10 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for quick lunches or meal prep. Store it in the refrigerator for up to three days.
19. Salmon Dip with Horseradish and Chives
This flavorful salmon dip combines canned salmon with zesty horseradish for a quick appetizer. You’ll need canned salmon, cream cheese, sour cream, and fresh horseradish.
Drain the canned salmon and remove any large bones. Place it in a food processor with softened cream cheese and a tablespoon of horseradish.
Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and some salt and pepper. Blend until smooth, then fold in finely chopped chives.
Serve your dip with crackers, vegetable sticks, or spread it on bagels. Store it in the refrigerator for up to three days.
20. Simple Salmon Patties with Crushed Crackers
Salmon patties with crushed crackers make a quick and delicious meal. You can use buttery Ritz crackers or saltines for this recipe.
Mix one can of salmon with two eggs. Add crushed crackers directly into the mixture.
Season with salt, pepper, parsley, and red pepper flakes. Form the mixture into patties.
For extra crunch, coat the patties in additional crushed crackers before cooking. Heat oil in a pan and cook the patties until golden brown on both sides.
Avocado oil works well if you have it on hand. Serve these patties with a side salad or on a bun as a sandwich.
21. Canned Salmon and Cream Cheese Spread
This spread combines skinless, boneless canned salmon with cream cheese for a tasty appetizer. You only need a few ingredients to make this simple dish.
Mix 6 ounces of canned salmon with 8 ounces of cream cheese until well blended. Add a splash of lemon juice to brighten the flavor.
For extra creaminess, include some Greek yogurt or sour cream. Fresh herbs like dill and parsley work wonderfully in this spread.
Serve your salmon cream cheese spread with crackers or fresh vegetables. It makes a perfect party appetizer or quick snack that’s ready in just 15 minutes.
Health Benefits Of Canned Salmon
Canned salmon offers impressive nutritional benefits while being convenient and budget-friendly. It packs essential nutrients that support heart health, bone strength, and overall wellness.
Key Nutrients In Canned Salmon
Canned salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce inflammation and lower your risk of heart disease. A 3-ounce serving provides about 17 grams of high-quality protein, supporting muscle maintenance and growth.
Unlike many other canned foods, salmon contains significant amounts of vitamin D. A single serving can provide up to 50% of your daily vitamin D needs, supporting bone health and immune function.
Canned salmon also delivers important B vitamins, including B12, B6, and niacin. These help your body convert food into energy and support brain function.
The calcium content in canned salmon (especially with bones) is impressive. One serving can provide 20-25% of your daily calcium needs, strengthening your bones and teeth.
Comparing Canned And Fresh Salmon
Canned salmon retains most of the nutritional benefits of fresh salmon. The canning process preserves the omega-3 fatty acids and protein content with minimal loss.
In some ways, canned salmon may be more nutritious than fresh. When you eat canned salmon with soft, edible bones, you get more calcium than from fresh salmon fillets.
A 3-ounce serving with bones provides about 200-250 mg of calcium. Canned salmon often costs less than fresh, making these health benefits more accessible.
A can typically costs $3-5 and can serve 2-4 people depending on the recipe. The long shelf life of canned salmon (3-5 years) means you can keep it on hand for quick, healthy meals.
Cooking Tips For Canned Salmon
Canned salmon is a versatile protein that transforms into delicious meals with the right techniques. Proper preparation and seasoning bring out its best qualities.
How To Enhance Flavor
Drain canned salmon thoroughly before using it in recipes. The liquid contains strong flavors that can overwhelm your dish.
For milder taste, rinse the salmon under cold water. Remove the skin and bones or keep them for extra calcium and omega-3 fatty acids.
They soften during canning and are completely edible.
Flavor boosters that work well:
- Lemon juice or zest
- Fresh herbs (dill, parsley, chives)
- Garlic and shallots
- Dijon mustard
- Maple syrup or teriyaki for sweetness
Mix canned salmon with cream cheese, sour cream, or mayo for a creamy texture. This combination works great for dips, spreads, and filling for pastries.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
Don’t overcook canned salmon. It’s already fully cooked, so you only need to heat it through.
Excessive cooking will make it dry and tough. Avoid using strong-flavored ingredients that compete with salmon.
Balance is key—let the salmon remain the star of your dish.
Watch out for:
- Over-seasoning with salt (canned salmon is already salted)
- Adding too many wet ingredients (creates soggy texture)
- Using incompatible flavors like heavy cheese or excessive vinegar
Don’t discard the liquid too quickly. You can use the oil in some premium brands in your recipe for added flavor.
Store unused portions in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
