Salmon Loaf Recipe

➤ What Is Salmon Loaf Recipe?

Salmon Loaf Recipe is a classic comfort food dish that transforms canned or fresh salmon into a hearty, moist, and flavorful main course that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. This recipe features tender flaked salmon combined with breadcrumbs, eggs, and aromatic seasonings that bind together to create a cohesive, sliceable loaf that holds its shape beautifully while remaining incredibly tender and moist throughout.

The baking method allows all the flavors to meld together perfectly, creating a golden-brown exterior with a succulent interior that’s packed with rich salmon flavor and complementary herbs and spices.

Unlike complicated seafood dishes that require expensive ingredients or advanced techniques, this salmon loaf delivers restaurant-quality results using simple, accessible ingredients that most home cooks already have in their pantries.

The result is an elegant yet approachable dish that showcases the natural flavors of salmon while providing a satisfying, protein-rich meal that’s both nutritious and delicious, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests who appreciate classic American comfort food with a sophisticated twist.

➤ Why You’ll Love This Salmon Loaf Recipe

•Budget-Friendly: I love how this recipe transforms affordable canned salmon into an elegant, restaurant-quality dish that feeds the whole family.
•Easy Preparation: I appreciate that this comes together in just minutes with simple mixing and shaping – no complicated techniques required
•Make-Ahead Friendly: I often prepare this in the morning and bake it later, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
•Versatile Serving: I find this works equally well as a main course with sides or sliced cold for sandwiches and salads.
•Nutritious Choice: I’m always happy to serve this knowing it’s packed with omega-3 fatty acids and high-quality protein.
•Comfort Food Classic: I love how this brings back memories of traditional family meals while being sophisticated enough for company.

➤ Salmon Loaf Recipe Ingredients

For the salmon loaf:

•2 cans (14.75 oz each) salmon, drained and flaked
•1 cup fresh breadcrumbs
•1/2 cup milk
•2 large eggs, beaten
•1/4 cup finely chopped onion
•2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
•1 tablespoon lemon juice
•1 teaspoon salt
•1/2 teaspoon black pepper
•1/4 teaspoon dried dill

For the topping:

•2 tablespoons butter, melted
•1/4 cup additional breadcrumbs
•1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
•Lemon wedges for serving

➤ How to Make Salmon Loaf Recipe

1 • Prepare the oven and pan:

•Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan thoroughly.
•Line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.

2 • Prepare the salmon:

•Drain salmon completely and remove any bones or skin pieces carefully.
•Flake salmon into bite-sized pieces using a fork, keeping some texture.

3 • Soak the breadcrumbs:

•Combine fresh breadcrumbs with milk in a large mixing bowl.
•Let the mixture stand for 5 minutes until the breadcrumbs absorb all the milk.

4 • Mix the base:

•Add beaten eggs, chopped onion, parsley, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and dill to breadcrumb mixture.
•Stir until all ingredients are well combined and mixture holds together.

5 • Combine with salmon:

•Gently fold flaked salmon into the breadcrumb mixture using a spatula.
•Mix just until combined – don’t overmix to maintain salmon texture.

6 • Shape the loaf:

•Transfer mixture to prepared loaf pan and shape into an even loaf.
•Press gently to compact slightly, but don’t pack too tightly.

7 • Add topping:

•Brush top with melted butter and sprinkle with additional breadcrumbs.
•Garnish with fresh parsley for color and extra flavor.

8 • Bake to perfection:

•Bake for 45-50 minutes until top is golden brown and loaf is set.
•Insert a knife in the center, and it should come out clean when done.

9 • Rest and serve:

•Let loaf rest in pan for 10 minutes before turning out onto a serving platter.
•Slice and serve warm with lemon wedges and your favorite sides.

➤ Salmon Loaf Recipe Tips & Variations

• Salmon selection: Fresh cooked salmon works beautifully – use about 3 cups flaked for best texture and flavor.
• Breadcrumb options: Panko creates a lighter texture; regular breadcrumbs give denser, more traditional results.
• Flavor additions: Add capers, chopped celery, or bell peppers for extra texture and Mediterranean flair.
• Sauce pairings: Serve with hollandaise, tartar sauce, or simple lemon butter for elegant presentation.
• Glaze option: Brush with a mixture of melted butter and lemon juice halfway through baking for extra richness.
• Individual portions: Divide mixture into muffin tins for personal-sized servings that bake in 25-30 minutes.

➤ Salmon Loaf Recipe Serving Suggestions

• Classic comfort: Serve with mashed potatoes, green beans, and dinner rolls for a traditional comfort meal.
• Elegant dinner: Pair with roasted asparagus, wild rice pilaf, and white wine for a sophisticated presentation.
• Brunch option: Serve sliced with scrambled eggs, toast, and fresh fruit for a special weekend brunch.
• Sandwich filling: Use cold slices for gourmet sandwiches with lettuce, tomato, and creamy dill sauce.
• Salad topper: Crumble over mixed greens with cucumber, tomatoes, and lemon vinaigrette for a light lunch.

If you enjoy this Salmon Loaf Recipe, you’ll also love our Coho Salmon Recipe with its premium fresh fish that delivers restaurant-quality flavor and elegant presentation!

➤ Salmon Loaf Recipe Storage Instructions

• Fresh storage: Store unbaked mixture covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking
• Cooked leftovers: Keep refrigerated for up to 4 days in airtight container for best quality.
• Freezer storage: Wrap cooked loaf tightly and freeze for up to 3 months – thaw overnight before reheating.
• Reheating tips: Reheat slices in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes or microwave individual portions carefully.

➤ Salmon Loaf Recipe FAQs

Q: Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?

⤷ A: Absolutely! Cook 1.5 pounds fresh salmon, cool completely, and flake – the results are even more delicious.

Q: What if my mixture seems too wet?

⤷ A: Add more breadcrumbs gradually until the mixture holds together but isn’t too dry or crumbly.

Q: Can I make this without eggs?

⤷ A: Try using 2 tablespoons of ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tablespoons of water as a binding substitute.

Q: How do I prevent the loaf from falling apart?

⤷ A: Don’t overmix, let breadcrumbs fully absorb milk, and allow proper resting time before slicing.

Q: Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

⤷ A: Yes! Sautéed onions, celery, or bell peppers work wonderfully – just drain excess moisture first.

Q: How long should I let the salmon loaf rest before slicing?

⤷ A: Let it rest for at least 10 minutes in the pan to firm up and make slicing much easier.