Get ready to enjoy a tasty and affordable classic with this easy homemade salmon loaf recipe. It’s great for weeknight dinners or special events, serving 4 people with a single loaf. It only takes 15 minutes to prepare and cooks in 1 hour 10 minutes. This salmon loaf is a simple way to enjoy the flavors of canned salmon.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Simple homemade salmon loaf recipe using pantry ingredients
- Budget-friendly and perfect for easy weeknight dinners
- Yields one loaf serving 4 people
- Prep time of 15 minutes, total cook time of 1 hour 10 minutes
- Delicious comfort food made with canned salmon
Introduction to Classic Salmon Loaf
Salmon loaf has been a favorite at family dinners for many years. It’s a hearty dish made with canned salmon and other tasty ingredients. It’s easy to make and great for weeknights when you’re short on time.
Why Salmon Loaf is a Perfect Family Meal
Salmon loaf is perfect for families because it’s packed with protein. A 3.5-ounce serving has 22-25 grams of protein. It also has lots of vitamins and minerals, like 127% of vitamin B12.
It’s also full of omega-3 fatty acids. These are good for your heart and brain.
Health Benefits of Salmon
Canned salmon is a key ingredient in salmon loaf. It’s rich in nutrients. Red salmon has 1.7 grams of omega-3s and 22 grams of protein per 3.5-ounce serving. Pink salmon has 0.8 grams of omega-3s and 20 grams of protein.
A Brief History of this Comfort Dish
Salmon loaf started during the Great Depression. Canned salmon was cheap and easy to find. Families loved it because it was affordable and tasty.
Over time, people added different veggies, herbs, and grains to make it even better. Today, salmon loaf is still a favorite for its delicious and healthy taste.
Essential Ingredients for Salmon Loaf Recipe
To make a tasty salmon loaf, you need the right ingredients. You’ll need a 14.75-15 ounce can of red salmon, eggs, milk, butter, and bread or crackers. Also, an onion and seasonings like salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce are key. Some recipes add cayenne pepper or rice vinegar for extra taste.
Red salmon is best, but pink salmon works too if red is hard to find. The recipe focuses on using affordable ingredients. It’s quick to make, taking less than 10 minutes.
For the right texture, use two 213g cans of Clover Leaf Sockeye Salmon, two large eggs, and ½ cup of finely diced yellow onion. Panko breadcrumbs are crucial and should not be swapped with other breadcrumbs.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Canned salmon | 14.75-15 ounces |
| Eggs | 2 large |
| Milk | Undefined |
| Butter | Undefined |
| Bread or crackers | Undefined |
| Onion | 1/2 cup finely diced |
| Seasonings | Salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce |
| Optional Seasonings | Cayenne pepper, rice vinegar |
The recipe also offers alternatives. You can use tuna instead of salmon and water instead of milk. Crushed saltine crackers can replace breadcrumbs. This makes the recipe flexible for different tastes and what you have on hand.
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
To make a tasty salmon loaf at home, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. The main item is the salmon loaf pan, usually a 9×5-inch pan. This gives your loaf its classic shape. You’ll also need a mixing bowl, a whisk, and a strong spatula for mixing and assembling.
Recommended Loaf Pan Sizes
A 9×5-inch pan is standard, but some recipes might suggest an 8×4-inch pan. This smaller pan makes a taller, more compact loaf. Your choice depends on what you like and the recipe you’re using.
Optional Kitchen Gadgets
- Electric mixer: For whipping egg whites to medium stiff peaks, which can help lighten the texture of your salmon loaf.
- Sauté pan: Useful for sautéing onions or other aromatic vegetables before incorporating them into the salmon mixture.
- Food processor: Can be used to finely chop or pulse the salmon, bread cubes, or other ingredients for a more uniform texture.
Having the right kitchen tools for salmon loaf is key to success. With the essentials, you’ll make a moist, flavorful salmon loaf. It’s sure to please your family’s taste buds.
Preparing Your Canned Salmon
When you’re getting ready to make your salmon loaf recipe, you have a few choices. You can decide whether to take out the bones and skin from the canned salmon. Some people like it without them for a smoother feel.
If you remove the bones and skin, just break the salmon into small pieces before mixing it with the recipe. Or, if you like a bit of texture, leave them in and mash them into the mix. They’ll blend in well with the rest of the canned salmon preparation.
It doesn’t matter which way you choose, make sure the salmon is well mixed with the other ingredients. This will help you make a tasty and cohesive salmon loaf. With a bit of prep, you’ll soon enjoy this comforting dish.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Total shares of the recipe | 3.3K |
| Percentage of parmesan cheese in the recipe | 33.3% |
| Time to bake the salmon loaf | 45-55 minutes |
| Days to store leftovers in the fridge | 4-5 days |
| Shelf life of the salmon loaf in the freezer | up to 3 months |
| Number of servings | 8 |
| Number of cans of salmon used in the recipe | 3 |
| Share buttons available | Pinterest, Email, and Save |
| Number of recipe ingredients listed | 12 |
| Number of recipe tips provided | 3 |
The canned salmon needed is from 2 cans, each weighing 213 grams. You’ll also need large eggs, ½ cup of breadcrumbs, and the green stems of a green onion. For the Dijon Dill Sauce, you’ll need 1 cup of Greek yogurt, juice of ½ lemon, 3 tablespoons of fresh dill, and 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard.
“The secret to a perfect salmon loaf recipe is all in the preparation of the canned salmon. Taking the time to properly break it down and incorporate it into the other ingredients is key to achieving the right texture and flavor.”
Step-by-Step Salmon Loaf Recipe
Making a tasty salmon loaf is simple. Just follow these easy steps to make a dish your family will enjoy. With a few ingredients and basic techniques, you can make a moist and flavorful salmon loaf quickly.
Mixing the Base Ingredients
First, heat your oven to 325-350°F (165-175°C). In a big bowl, mix 2 large eggs, 1/2 cup of melted butter, 1/2 cup of milk, and your favorite seasonings like salt, pepper, dill, and parsley. Then, add 1 pound of canned salmon. Make sure to flake it well and mix it evenly.
Adding Seasonings and Flavors
To make your salmon loaf even tastier, add some extra ingredients. Mix in 1/2 cup of finely diced yellow onion, 2 chopped green onions, and 1 1/2 cups of breadcrumbs or panko. This will add a great mix of flavors and textures to your salmon loaf recipe.
Proper Baking Techniques
Grease a loaf pan and fill it with the salmon mixture. Smooth the top and bake for 45-60 minutes. The loaf should puff up and get lightly browned. Watch it closely towards the end to avoid overcooking. After it’s done, let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
By following these steps, you’ll have a delicious and healthy salmon loaf ready for a family dinner or a potluck. Enjoy your homemade comfort food!
Tips for Perfect Texture and Moisture
Making a moist and tasty salmon loaf is about finding the right mix of ingredients and baking methods. Whisk egg whites separately and fold them gently into the mix. This makes the loaf light and fluffy, perfect for melting in your mouth.
To keep the salmon loaf moist, don’t overmix the ingredients. Overmixing can make the loaf dense and dry. Mix the base ingredients just enough to combine them, letting the natural fats and liquids make it tender and juicy.
Adding milk and butter to the recipe also helps keep the loaf moist. These ingredients help keep moisture in during baking, stopping the loaf from drying out. To keep your salmon loaf moist and tasty, don’t overbake it.
| Technique | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Whisking egg whites separately | Lighter, fluffier loaf |
| Gentle mixing | Tender, moist salmon loaf |
| Incorporating milk and butter | Locks in moisture during baking |
| Careful baking | Prevents dryness |
By using these simple tips, you’ll make a salmon loaf that’s moist and tender. It’s a comfort food that everyone in your family will love.
Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes
Salmon loaf is a classic comfort food that goes well with many side dishes. It’s great for balancing flavors or adding nutrients. There are lots of tasty options to serve with this main course.
Complementary Sauces
For a better salmon taste, try a lemon-dill sauce or creamy dill sauce. These sauces are bright and tangy. They match the loaf’s slightly salty flavor well.
Recommended Side Dishes
- Crisp, refreshing green salad
- Roasted vegetables, such as asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts
- Steamed broccoli or asparagus
- Light pasta salad with fresh herbs and vegetables
- Quinoa and chickpea salad
- Fluffy mashed potatoes
These sides go great with salmon loaf and add nutrients. They offer vitamins, minerals, and fiber to match the protein in the main dish.
For a bigger meal, try salmon loaf with sesame noodles, baked sweet potatoes, or a farro salad. This mix of starches, veggies, and the loaf makes for a full and tasty meal.
“Salmon loaf is a classic comfort food that can be elevated with the right side dishes. The key is to balance the flavors and textures to create a harmonious and satisfying meal.”
Storage and Reheating Instructions
After enjoying your salmon loaf, make sure to store leftovers properly. Let the loaf cool down completely. Then, put it in an airtight container and refrigerate for 3-4 days.
To reheat, slice a portion and use the microwave or oven. For oven reheating, cover the slices with foil. This prevents drying out. Warm them at 275°F to 300°F.
For longer storage, freeze the salmon loaf recipe for 2-3 months. Thaw it in the fridge before reheating. Proper storage keeps the loaf moist and flavorful.
These tips make enjoying salmon loaf recipe leftovers easy. You can have this healthy, budget-friendly dish whenever you want.
FAQ
What is the yield of this salmon loaf recipe?
This recipe makes one salmon loaf recipe that serves 4 people.
How long does it take to prepare and cook the salmon loaf?
It takes 5-15 minutes to prepare and 45-50 minutes to cook.
What are the key ingredients in a salmon loaf recipe?
Key ingredients are a 14.75-15 ounce can of red salmon, eggs, milk, butter, and bread or crackers. You also need an onion and seasonings like salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce.
What kitchen tools and equipment are needed to make salmon loaf?
You’ll need a 9×5-inch loaf pan, a mixing bowl, whisk, and spatula. A sauté pan is needed for sautéing onions. Some recipes suggest using a smaller loaf pan for a taller loaf. An electric mixer can be used for whisking egg whites.
How should canned salmon be prepared for the salmon loaf recipe?
You can choose to remove bones and skin from canned salmon. While they are nutritious, some prefer to remove them for texture. Break the salmon into bite-sized pieces. If using skin and bones, mash them and mix in.
What is the proper way to bake the salmon loaf recipe?
Preheat the oven to 325-350°F (165-175°C). Mix eggs, melted butter, milk, and seasonings. Fold in the salmon and bread/cracker crumbs. Pour into a greased loaf pan and bake for 45-60 minutes until puffed and lightly browned.
How can the texture of the salmon loaf be improved?
For a fluffier texture, whisk egg whites separately and fold them in. Avoid overmixing to keep it tender. The milk and butter help keep it moist.
What are some recommended side dishes for salmon loaf?
Salmon loaf recipe goes well with green salad, roasted vegetables, steamed broccoli, asparagus, or pasta salad. You can also serve it with lemon-dill or creamy dill sauce.
How can leftover salmon loaf be stored and reheated?
Store leftover salmon loaf recipe in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat by slicing and warming in a microwave or oven. Cover with foil in the oven to prevent drying. It can also be frozen for 2-3 months and thawed before reheating.
Homemade Salmon Loaf
Equipment
- 9×5 inch loaf pan
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Optional: Electric mixer, sauté pan, food processor
Ingredients
- 14.75-15 ounces canned salmon preferably red
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup finely diced yellow onion
- 1½ cups breadcrumbs or panko
- ½ cup milk
- ½ cup melted butter
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Worcestershire sauce to taste
- Optional: Cayenne pepper or rice vinegar
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Heat to 325-350°F (165-175°C).
- Mix base ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, melted butter, milk, and seasonings.
- Prepare salmon: Flake the canned salmon, removing bones and skin if desired, and add to the bowl.
- Add flavorings: Incorporate the finely diced onion, breadcrumbs, and any additional seasonings. Mix until just combined.
- Shape and bake: Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan, pour in the mixture, and smooth the top. Bake for 45-60 minutes until lightly browned.
- Rest and serve: Let the loaf rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with a creamy dill sauce or your favorite sides.