How to Make Pacific Cod Cakes – Best Recipe for Crispy, Golden Fish Cakes

How to Make Pacific Cod Cakes: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Are you looking for a new, exciting way to enjoy seafood? Pacific Cod Cakes are the perfect dish—crispy on the outside, flaky and tender inside, and bursting with flavor. Whether served as an appetizer, a main course, or even in a sandwich, these fish cakes are a delicious, protein-packed meal that’s easy to prepare.

In this guide, we’ll show you step-by-step how to make the best Pacific Cod Cakes, plus pro cooking tips, dipping sauce pairings, and serving ideas.

For the freshest seafood, use wild-caught Pacific Cod fillets to ensure high quality and exceptional flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Easy to make – Simple steps and ready in under 30 minutes!
✔ Crispy & golden – Perfectly pan-fried for a crunchy exterior.
✔ Healthy & nutritious – Packed with protein and Omega-3s.
✔ Versatile – Enjoy with salads, sandwiches, or your favorite dip.
✔ Kid-friendly – A great way to introduce seafood to picky eaters.

Looking for a firmer, slightly richer taste? Try making these fish cakes with Lingcod Fillets for a heartier bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

✔ 1 lb Pacific Cod fillets, cooked & flaked (Shop Wild-Caught Pacific Cod )
✔ ½ cup mayonnaise (For a lighter option, substitute with Greek yogurt)
✔ ¼ cup breadcrumbs (For extra crispiness, use panko!)
✔ 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
✔ 2 tbsp finely chopped onion
✔ 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (Adds brightness!)
✔ ¼ tsp salt
✔ ¼ tsp black pepper
✔ ¼ cup vegetable oil (For frying; can use olive oil for a healthier version)

For an alternative with a mild, delicate taste, consider Pacific Whiting —a sustainable and flavorful whitefish option.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Cod Cakes

1. Cook & Flake the Cod

If using fresh cod, bake, steam, or poach the fillets until fully cooked.
Let the cod cool slightly, then flake it into small pieces using a fork.

2. Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine flaked cod, mayonnaise, breadcrumbs, Dijon mustard, onion, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Stir until well blended, ensuring the mixture holds together.

3. Shape the Patties

Divide the mixture into 8 evenly sized patties (about 2–3 inches wide).
Coat each patty lightly in additional breadcrumbs for a crispier texture.

4. Pan-Fry the Cod Cakes

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the cod cakes and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

5. Serve & Enjoy!

Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce, a fresh salad, or in a sandwich.
Garnish with chopped parsley and lemon wedges for an extra burst of freshness.

For a more delicate, buttery alternative, try making fish cakes with Chilean Sea Bass for a rich, melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Best Dipping Sauces for Pacific Cod Cakes

✔ Classic Tartar Sauce – A creamy, tangy favorite.
✔ Garlic Aioli – Adds a rich, garlicky kick.
✔ Spicy Sriracha Mayo – Perfect for a bold, zesty flavor.
✔ Lemon Dill Yogurt Sauce – A light, refreshing option.

Looking for another seafood twist? Serve cod cakes alongside Halibut Cheeks for a delicate, succulent seafood experience.

Pro Tips for the Best Cod Cakes

✔ Use fresh cod for the best texture – Frozen cod works too, but fresh fillets give better results.
✔ Chill the patties before cooking – Refrigerate for 30 minutes to help them hold their shape.
✔ Don’t overmix the batter – Overmixing can make the cakes too dense.
✔ Adjust seasoning to taste – Add Old Bay seasoning or cayenne for extra flavor.

FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About Pacific Cod Cakes

Can I Use Frozen Cod Fillets?

Yes! Just thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.

Can I Substitute Mayonnaise with Greek Yogurt?

Yes! Greek yogurt works well but gives a slightly different texture.

How Do I Make These Cod Cakes Gluten-Free?

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour instead.

Can I Bake These Instead of Frying?

Absolutely! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Can I Make Pacific Cod Cakes Ahead of Time?

Yes! Prepare the patties and refrigerate for up to 2 days before cooking.

What Other Fish Can I Use?

Besides Pacific Cod, try Pacific Whiting for a mild taste or Chilean Sea Bass for a luxurious texture.

Conclusion

Pacific Cod Cakes are a crispy, flavorful, and satisfying seafood dish perfect for any occasion. Whether served as an appetizer, main course, or sandwich, these fish cakes are sure to impress.

For the freshest seafood, use wild-caught Pacific Cod fillets and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home!

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