Classic Fish Cakes
Golden on the outside, tender and flavorful on the inside — Fish Cakes are a comforting, budget-friendly meal made with flaky fish, mashed potatoes, herbs, and simple seasonings. They’re perfect for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep.
These crispy patties can be pan-fried, baked, or air-fried, and they’re great served with salad, tartar sauce, or a squeeze of lemon.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Crispy outside, soft inside
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Great way to use leftover fish
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Simple pantry ingredients
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Freezer-friendly
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Family-friendly
Ingredients (Makes 8–10 Fish Cakes)
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450 g (1 lb) cooked white fish (cod, haddock, tilapia)
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2 cups mashed potatoes (cooled)
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1 small onion, finely diced
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1 tablespoon chopped parsley
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1 teaspoon lemon juice
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1 egg
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½ teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
For Coating
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½ cup flour
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1 egg, beaten
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1 cup breadcrumbs
For Frying
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3–4 tablespoons oil
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Fish
Cook fish by baking, steaming, or pan-frying until flaky.
Let cool slightly and flake with a fork. Remove any bones.
2️⃣ Make the Mixture
In a large bowl, combine:
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Flaked fish
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Mashed potatoes
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Onion
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Parsley
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Lemon juice
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Egg
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Salt and pepper
Mix gently until combined.
3️⃣ Shape
Form into patties about ½-inch thick.
Chill in refrigerator for 20–30 minutes (helps them hold shape).
4️⃣ Coat
Dip each patty in:
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Flour
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Beaten egg
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Breadcrumbs
Press lightly so crumbs stick well.
5️⃣ Cook
Pan-Fry (Best Texture)
Heat oil over medium heat.
Cook 3–4 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
Bake (Healthier Option)
Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
Air Fry
Air fry at 190°C (375°F) for 12–15 minutes.
Tips for Perfect Fish Cakes
✔ Use cold mashed potatoes to prevent softness.
✔ Don’t overmix — keep texture light.
✔ Chill before frying to prevent breaking.
✔ If mixture is too soft, add 1–2 tablespoons breadcrumbs.
Flavor Variations
🌶 Spicy – Add chili flakes or diced jalapeños
🧄 Garlic Herb – Add fresh dill or chives
🧀 Cheesy – Add ¼ cup shredded cheddar
🥬 Low Carb – Replace potatoes with mashed cauliflower
🍋 Mediterranean – Add feta and chopped olives
Serving Ideas
Serve with:
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Tartar sauce
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Garlic aioli
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Sweet chili sauce
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Fresh salad
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Steamed vegetables
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Rice or fries
Storage
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Refrigerate up to 3 days
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Freeze uncooked patties up to 2 months
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Reheat in oven or air fryer for crispness
Final Thoughts
Fish cakes are simple, comforting, and incredibly versatile. With crispy edges and tender, flavorful centers, they make a satisfying meal using affordable ingredients.