There’s something so comforting about a loaf of tender, savory salmon, especially when paired with the creamy richness of mayonnaise. If you’ve ever found yourself craving an easy-to-make dinner that’s both satisfying and full of flavor, this Salmon Loaf Recipe with Mayonnaise is here to rescue you. Whether you’re hosting a casual family dinner or craving a quick weeknight meal, this recipe hits all the right notes.
I first discovered the magic of this salmon loaf when I was looking for a new way to enjoy canned salmon. Typically, I would toss it into a salad or mix it into a pasta, but one evening, I decided to bake it into a loaf, combining it with mayonnaise, breadcrumbs, and a few other pantry staples. The result was a moist, flavorful dish that immediately became a hit. The best part? It’s so simple to prepare, even on a busy evening.
This dish is perfect for those who enjoy light, savory meals that are hearty without being too heavy. With its delicate balance of salmon, creamy mayo, and a touch of seasoning, it’s an easy comfort food option you’ll want to make again and again.
Table of contents
Why this Salmon Loaf Recipe with Mayonnaise Works
This Salmon Loaf Recipe with Mayonnaise is special for a few reasons. The addition of mayonnaise ensures that the loaf stays moist and tender, even after baking. Many people shy away from cooking with canned salmon because it can sometimes be dry, but the mayo acts as a binding agent, keeping the salmon succulent while adding richness to each bite.
Additionally, this recipe is incredibly versatile. You can adjust the seasonings to suit your personal taste, whether you prefer something spicy with a bit of cayenne pepper or something fresh with a squeeze of lemon. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as dill or parsley, or even toss in some finely chopped veggies like onions or bell peppers for extra flavor.
This recipe works wonderfully for those who are looking for a healthy and balanced meal that doesn’t require much time or effort. It’s also a great option for anyone who might be trying to incorporate more fish into their diet without relying on traditional fish fillets or seafood dishes. The creamy mayonnaise makes this a truly comforting meal without being overly indulgent.
Recipe Card
Salmon Loaf Recipe with Mayonnaise
Cuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy6
servings15
minutes40
minutes280
kcalExperience the rich flavors of this salmon loaf recipe with mayonnaise, a perfect blend of savory, tender salmon and creamy mayo. Simple to make, this dish is ideal for a hearty, comforting meal any night of the week.
Ingredients
2 cans (14.75 oz each) of canned salmon, drained
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
1/4 cup finely chopped celery
2 eggs, beaten
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained salmon, mayonnaise, breadcrumbs, onion, celery, beaten eggs, lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Form the Loaf: Mix until all the ingredients are well combined. Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake: Bake for 40 minutes or until the loaf is firm and lightly golden on top.
- Serve Warm: Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm with a side salad, rice, or steamed vegetables.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika.
- Using canned salmon with bones adds calcium and extra nutrition to the loaf.
Tips for the perfect Salmon Loaf Recipe with Mayonnaise
- Use Fresh or Canned Salmon: If you prefer, you can substitute canned salmon with fresh, cooked salmon.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients for your loaf, gently mix the ingredients until they’re just combined. Overmixing will make the loaf dense and heavy, so keep it light and airy to ensure a tender result.
- Moisture Balance: Be mindful of the mayonnaise amount to maintain the right moisture level. Adjust as necessary if the mixture feels too dry or too wet.
- Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-friendly.
- Add Herbs and Spices: While the mayonnaise adds creaminess, a little seasoning goes a long way in elevating the flavor of your salmon loaf. Fresh dill, garlic powder, or even a pinch of paprika can add complexity and depth.
Recipe Variants
1. Classic Salmon Loaf with Mayonnaise
The original version of this recipe is simple yet satisfying, featuring canned salmon, mayonnaise, breadcrumbs, and eggs. It’s a foolproof option that will always deliver tender, moist results. Serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a green salad for a complete meal.
2. Spicy Salmon Loaf
For those who enjoy a little heat, a spicy twist on this recipe is a great option. Add a few dashes of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the mixture before baking. This version pairs wonderfully with a cooling cucumber salad or a dollop of sour cream on the side to balance the spice.
3. Mediterranean Salmon Loaf
Take your salmon loaf in a Mediterranean direction by adding ingredients like kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese to the mixture. These bold flavors bring an entirely new dimension to the loaf, creating a Mediterranean-inspired meal that’s perfect for summer gatherings.
4. Gluten-Free Salmon Loaf
For those with dietary restrictions, simply swap the breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or oat flour. This version remains just as tender and delicious, and it’s an excellent way to enjoy a gluten-free, fish-based meal without sacrificing flavor or texture.
FAQs of Salmon Loaf Recipe with Mayonnaise
Yes, you can. Simply cook the fresh salmon, flake it, and use it in place of canned salmon.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Yes, combining canned tuna and salmon is a great way to blend flavors.
Yes, replace the eggs with 1/4 cup of mashed potatoes or applesauce as a binding agent.
Serve with a green salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of rice or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that brings comfort and nutrition to the table, this Salmon Loaf Recipe with Mayonnaise is a must-try. It’s simple enough to prepare on a busy weeknight, yet impressive enough to serve at a casual gathering. With its rich, tender texture and the slight tang from the mayo, this salmon loaf quickly becomes a family favorite.
The beauty of this recipe is that it can be tailored to your preferences and dietary needs, whether you’re looking for a lighter version or a heartier, more filling meal. With the ability to experiment with different herbs, vegetables, and seasonings, there’s no end to the creative possibilities this recipe offers. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate more fish into your diet while keeping things delicious and satisfying.
If you are looking for more Salmon recipes, check out the following ones:
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