Crispy Fish Cakes with Lemon Dill Sauce

Lora Lopez

Posted on March 11, 2025

If you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying dish that brings the taste of the sea to your dining table, then look no further than these Crispy Fish Cakes with Lemon Dill Sauce. This recipe combines flaky white fish, creamy mashed potatoes, and fresh herbs to create a dish that’s not only hearty but also has a delightful crunch. Paired with a zesty lemon dill sauce, these fish cakes make for a perfect appetizer, main course, or even a casual snack that will impress your guests and family alike. Whether you’re serving them for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these fish cakes are sure to be a hit. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to fall in love with Crispy Fish Cakes with Lemon Dill Sauce. For starters, the combination of textures is simply divine. The outer layer is wonderfully crispy, thanks to the breadcrumbs, while the inside is packed with tender fish and creamy potatoes. This contrasting texture makes each bite a delightful experience.

Moreover, the flavor profile is nothing short of amazing. The fresh parsley and green onions add a burst of herbal brightness, while the garlic and onion powder provide a subtle depth of flavor that complements the fish perfectly. And let’s not forget the lemon dill sauce! This sauce is the perfect finishing touch, giving the cakes a tangy, refreshing twist that elevates the overall taste.

Another great aspect of this recipe is its versatility. You can serve these fish cakes as an appetizer, main course, or even as part of a brunch spread. They pair beautifully with a variety of sides, from simple green salads to crispy fries. Plus, they are easy to make in batches, making them ideal for meal prep or entertaining guests. Trust us, once you try these fish cakes, they will become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You Should Try This Recipe

Trying out this recipe is an excellent choice for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. The steps are straightforward, ensuring that even those who are new to cooking can achieve perfect results. The use of readily available ingredients such as white fish, potatoes, and herbs means you won’t have to scour specialty stores to make this dish.

Additionally, making Crispy Fish Cakes with Lemon Dill Sauce is a fantastic way to incorporate more seafood into your diet, which is often a healthy alternative to meat. Fish is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, essential for heart health, and is a lean protein that can aid in weight management. By making these fish cakes at home, you control the ingredients, allowing you to create a healthier version than what you might find in a restaurant.

Lastly, this recipe is perfect for family gatherings or casual get-togethers. The fish cakes can be made ahead of time and reheated, making them convenient for serving a crowd. Plus, they are kid-friendly! With their tasty flavors and fun shapes, you might find that even picky eaters will enjoy them. So, get ready to impress your family and friends with these delightful fish cakes!

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils

Ingredients

1 lb (450g) white fish fillets (such as cod or haddock)
1 cup mashed potatoes
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1 egg
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetable oil for frying

For the Lemon Dill Sauce:

1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Necessary Utensils

Large pot for boiling fish
Large bowl for mixing ingredients
Skillet for frying
Spatula for flipping fish cakes
Measuring cups and spoons
Plate for resting cooked fish cakes
Whisk for making the sauce
Paper towels for draining oil

Detailed Recipe Steps

Now that you have the ingredients and utensils ready, let’s break down the steps to make these Crispy Fish Cakes with Lemon Dill Sauce:

Prepare the Fish: Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Once boiling, add the white fish fillets and cook for about 10 minutes or until they are opaque and cooked through. Once done, drain the water and let the fish cool. After cooling, use a fork to flake the fish into small pieces, making it easier to combine with the other ingredients.
Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flaked fish, mashed potatoes, breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, green onions, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined, ensuring that the fish and potatoes are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Form the Cakes: Using your hands, take a portion of the mixture and shape it into patties, roughly 1 inch thick. Place the formed patties on a plate. To help them hold their shape during cooking, refrigerate the fish cakes for about 30 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist.
Make the Sauce: While the fish cakes are chilling, prepare the lemon dill sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, chopped dill, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, ensuring a balanced flavor.
Fry the Fish Cakes: In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. The oil should be hot enough that a small piece of the mixture sizzles when added. Carefully add the fish cakes to the skillet in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Once cooked, transfer the fish cakes to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Serve: Arrange the crispy fish cakes on a serving platter. Drizzle them generously with the lemon dill sauce and garnish with additional fresh dill or parsley if desired. Enjoy your delicious homemade fish cakes!

FAQs

Can I freeze the fish cakes?

Yes, you can freeze uncooked fish cakes. Simply shape them and place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the frying time.

What type of fish works best for this recipe?

White fish like cod, haddock, or pollock works best for fish cakes due to their mild flavor and flaky texture. However, you can also experiment with other fish if you prefer.

How can I make these fish cakes gluten-free?

To make gluten-free fish cakes, simply substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Ensure that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Can I bake the fish cakes instead of frying them?

Yes! You can bake the fish cakes at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method is healthier and still yields a delicious result.

What can I serve with fish cakes?

Crispy fish cakes pair well with fresh salads, roasted vegetables, or classic fries. You can also serve them with additional lemon wedges for a zesty kick.

Conclusion

In summary, these Crispy Fish Cakes with Lemon Dill Sauce are a fantastic dish that combines simplicity with flavor, perfect for any occasion. With a crispy exterior and a flavorful interior, they are sure to please everyone at the table. Don’t forget to try the lemon dill sauce it takes these fish cakes to the next level! We’d love to hear your thoughts on this recipe. Please leave a comment, share this article, or try out the recipe and let us know how it turned out!

For more delicious recipes, check out our Crispy Tofu Nuggets with Garlic Sriracha Dip and Sesame Crusted Tuna Bites with Soy Wasabi Dipping Sauce! For even more inspiration, explore our Pinterest page for countless other culinary delights.