Crispy Fish Cakes

Only 20 Minutes: Delicious Crispy Fish Cakes

April 24, 2026

The most delicious crispy Fish Cakes made in 20 minutes with cod, breadcrumbs, lemon, herbs, and seafood seasoning. Easy to make and makes a perfect main course or appetizer!

These Easy Cod Fish Cakes are crisp on the outside, flaky inside, and packed with fresh flavor. If you're looking for a quick, budget-friendly dinner that feels a little special, this recipe checks every box. You only need a handful of ingredients and some cooked white fish, like cod, halibut, or even leftovers from last night's dinner.

I've made a lot of fish cakes over the years, but this version with lemon, parsley, and Old Bay seasoning is my personal favorite. It's light, zesty, and surprisingly filling. Serve them with your favorite sauce and sides for an easy appetizer or dinner that feels fancy but is so simple!

Delicious Crispy Fish Cakes

Recipe by: Kristen McCaffrey of Slender Kitchen
Prep Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 10 minutes; Total Time: 20 minutes
Makes 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 lb cooked cod (or other firm white fish)
  • 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (ideally whole wheat)
  • 2 green onions, diced
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 1/2 lemon, juice and zest
  • 1/2 tbsp Old Bay seasoning (or seafood seasoning)
  • Salt and pepper
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Directions

  1. Use a fork to break apart the cod.
  2. Beat the eggs in a large bowl. Add the green onions, parsley, lemon juice, lemon zest, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  3. Add the fish and breadcrumbs. Stir to combine.
  4. Divide the mixture into patties that are about 2 inches in size, about ⅛ cup per patty.
  5. Heat the olive oil over medium high heat. Cook for about 3 minutes per side or until golden brown.
  6. Optional for serving: Combine 1/4 cup low-fat mayonnaise, 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt, 2-4 tbsp fresh herbs, lemon juice, salt, and pepper OR serve with tartar sauce and fresh lemon.

Nutritional Info

Calories 206; Carbohydrates 10 grams; Fat 7 grams; Protein 28 grams

Kristen McCaffrey makes a variety of healthy and delicious recipes that she shares on her website, SlenderKitchen.com.

Crispy Fish Cakes
Kristen Mccaffrey

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kristen McCaffrey makes a variety of healthy and delicious recipes that she shares on her website, SlenderKitchen.com. Before diving into the world of healthy cooking, she struggled to lose weight, eat well, and find a healthy balance in her life. She has always been in love with food and enjoys healthy recipe development. Kristen is passionate about cooking and creating delicious recipes that encourage other people to eat healthy. See more recipes from Kristen!
Recipe Disclaimer: Nutrition information is estimated and may vary depending on the brands and quantities of ingredients used. If you have food allergies, dietary restrictions, or follow a specific nutrition plan, please review the ingredient list before consuming. All information on ObesityHelp.com is provided for general informational purposes only and should not replace consultation with a qualified medical professional. Please contact your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns related to your nutrition.