Canned Fish Loaf: A Savory, Protein-Packed Dish for Busy Days
A Delightful Oven-Baked Canned Fish Loaf
This Canned Fish Loaf recipe is a versatile and delicious meal, perfect for any time you need a quick, protein-packed dish. Originally inspired by a version found on Cooks.com, this recipe has been perfected over time by tweaking the ingredients to balance the flavors beautifully. With the combination of canned salmon, butter, milk, and a few herbs and spices, this loaf delivers on taste and ease.
Quick and Easy Recipe for Canned Fish Loaf
This savory loaf is ideal for busy weeknights, as it takes just over an hour from start to finish. With only 15 minutes of prep time and a 45-minute baking time, it’s an efficient meal that can be served with a variety of sides, making it a perfect choice for a family dinner or a quick lunch. The recipe yields one hearty loaf, which can serve up to six people, making it an economical and satisfying dish.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 171.9 |
| Total Fat | 8.7g |
| Saturated Fat | 3.8g |
| Cholesterol | 76.1mg |
| Sodium | 184.4mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 6.1g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.7g |
| Sugars | 1.2g |
| Protein | 16.8g |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Canned Salmon | 1 can |
| Milk | 1 cup |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1/2 |
| Egg | 1 |
| Butter | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | 2 teaspoons |
| Black Pepper | 1/8 teaspoon |
| Dried Basil | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Garlic Powder | 1 teaspoon |
Step-by-Step Instructions
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×5 loaf pan to ensure easy removal after baking. |
| 2 | In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients: canned salmon (drained and flaked), milk, chopped onion, egg, melted butter, salt, pepper, basil, and garlic powder. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are fully incorporated. |
| 3 | Once the mixture is well-blended, transfer it to the prepared loaf pan, pressing the mixture evenly into the pan to ensure a compact loaf. |
| 4 | Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or until the loaf is firm and golden brown on top. Use a fork or knife to check for doneness; the center should be firm and the edges slightly browned. |
| 5 | After baking, let the loaf stand for about 10 minutes before attempting to slice. This helps the loaf set and makes it easier to cut without falling apart. |
| 6 | Slice the loaf into six servings, and serve warm with your favorite side dish or a simple salad for a balanced meal. |
Tips and Variations
- Add more flavor: Feel free to experiment with other seasonings or herbs like dill, thyme, or parsley to suit your personal taste.
- Swap the fish: If you prefer, you can substitute canned tuna or another type of canned fish in place of salmon.
- Make it gluten-free: If you need a gluten-free option, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats in place of any flour-based binding agents. You may also need to adjust the amount of milk if the texture becomes too wet.
- Add vegetables: You can incorporate finely grated vegetables like carrots or zucchini to boost the nutrient profile of the dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Canned Fish Loaf is a great option for those looking to add more omega-3 fatty acids and protein to their diet. It’s budget-friendly, simple to make, and offers a delicious alternative to traditional meatloafs or casseroles. Plus, it’s adaptable, so you can make it your own by playing around with different flavorings and ingredients.
A Perfect Meal for Busy Days
Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner solution or a wholesome lunch, this Canned Fish Loaf fits the bill. It’s a one-pan dish that’s simple to prepare yet satisfying for the whole family. The recipe’s versatility also makes it a great option for meal prepping, so you can enjoy leftovers the next day.
Enjoy this hearty and healthy loaf, and don’t be afraid to adjust the ingredients based on your tastes or what you have in your pantry. After all, part of the fun in cooking is experimenting and making each dish uniquely yours.
Enjoyed this recipe? Be sure to explore more delicious, simple, and budget-friendly meals on Love with Recipes!
