Keto Bang Bang Salmon Cakes – Crispy, Spicy & Perfectly Low-Carb!

Looking for a crunchy, creamy, and boldly spicy seafood dish that brings all the flavor of your favorite bang bang shrimp—without breading or unnecessary carbs? These Keto Bang Bang Salmon Cakes are exactly what you need. With their golden crust, soft flaky fish base, and signature sweet-spicy sauce, this low-carb version delivers all the richness of restaurant-style seafood bites—in a keto-approved, gluten-free format.

Perfect for weeknight dinners , meal prep , or when you’re craving something hearty but staying in ketosis, these easy-to-make salmon cakes use simple ingredients like canned wild salmon, almond flour, and homemade keto bang bang sauce to bring bold global flavor into your kitchen. Whether you’re doing strict ketosis , following a low-carb lifestyle , or simply love savory seafood dishes with depth and richness, these keto bang bang salmon cakes will quickly become a go-to comfort dish in your weekly rotation.

In this article, we’ll walk you through how to make these perfect keto bang bang salmon cakes from scratch , explore ingredient substitutions, offer serving ideas, and answer your most common questions. Let’s get started!

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Why You’ll Love These Keto Bang Bang Salmon Cakes

These aren’t just any old fish patties—they’re a spicy, crunchy, melt-in-your-mouth delight made with real ingredients that bring bold texture and taste together beautifully—in under 30 minutes!

Here’s why they stand out:

• 🐟 Premium salmon base : Made with flaked wild-caught salmon for natural sweetness and tenderness.
• 🌶️ Bang-bang seasoning blend : Garlic, paprika, and hot sauce deliver classic heat and depth.
• 🧄 Bold sauce magic : Sweet-spicy keto-friendly bang bang sauce adds craveable contrast.
• 🥣 Easy to make : Just mix, shape, and pan-fry—no fancy tools needed!
• ⏱️ Ready in under 25–30 minutes
• 🧁 Great for batch cooking or freezer meals
• 🧼 Minimal cleanup : One bowl and one skillet = zero mess!

Whether you’re making them for yourself after work, your kids for lunch, or guests at a weekend brunch, these salmon cakes will quickly become a go-to comfort dish.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Salmon Cakes:

• 1 can (5 oz) wild-caught salmon, drained and flaked
• 1/4 cup almond flour or crushed pork rinds (for binding and crispiness)
• 1 tbsp mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard or lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Chopped green onions or bell peppers for extra crunch

Tip: Use fresh dill or parsley for herb-forward brightness.

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For the Bang Bang Sauce:

• 2 tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 tsp sriracha or sugar-free hot sauce
• 1 tsp powdered erythritol or monk fruit sweetener
• 1/2 tsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• Pinch of salt

Optional: Add a few drops of lime juice or garlic powder for extra flair.

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For Cooking:

• 1–2 tbsp avocado oil or ghee (for frying)

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For Serving:

• Zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice
• Avocado slices or guacamole
• Pickled vegetables or coleslaw
• Fresh cilantro or lime wedges

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Mix the Salmon Cake Ingredients

In a large bowl, gently combine:

• Flaked salmon (carefully folded to avoid breaking up too much)
• Almond flour or pork rinds
• Mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
• Mustard or lemon juice
• Garlic
• Smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper

Mix until everything is well incorporated and holds its shape.

Note: Use clean hands to press and shape for best texture.

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Step 2: Shape Into Small Cakes

Using clean hands, form the mixture into 4–6 small patties , about ½-inch thick .

Place on a tray and refrigerate for 10–15 minutes to help them hold shape during cooking.

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Step 3: Cook Until Golden and Crispy

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add avocado oil or ghee.

Cook salmon cakes for 3–4 minutes per side , or until golden brown and firm to the touch.

Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed.

Pro Tip: Press down slightly while cooking for better sear.

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Step 4: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together:

• Mayonnaise
• Hot sauce
• Powdered sweetener
• Vinegar
• Salt

Adjust heat and sweetness to your taste.

Set aside or chill briefly before serving.

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Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve warm with a generous dollop of bang bang sauce on top or on the side.

Pair with:

• A side of zucchini noodles or roasted asparagus
• Cauliflower mash or cabbage slaw
• Tzatziki or chipotle mayo for extra flair

Enjoy every soft, flaky bite of your Keto Bang Bang Salmon Cakes !

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Makes 4 Servings)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~200 kcal
Total Fat	~14 g
Saturated Fat	~3 g
Cholesterol	~70 mg
Sodium	~400 mg
Total Carbs	~4 g
Dietary Fiber	~1 g
Net Carbs	~3 g
Protein	~16 g

Note: Values may vary based on exact measurements and optional add-ins.

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Tips for the Best Keto Bang Bang Salmon Cakes

1. Use quality canned salmon – Look for BPA-free cans with skin and bones for extra nutrition.
2. Don’t overmix the cake batter – Keep the salmon chunks intact for better mouthfeel.
3. Chill before cooking – Helps maintain shape and prevents crumbling.
4. Make ahead and store – Keeps best refrigerated in an airtight container.
5. Double the batch for future meals – Great for freezing and reheating later.

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Variations & Customizations

Want to switch things up? Try these tasty variations:

Spicy Salmon Patties

Add diced jalapeños or extra hot sauce to the mixture for more kick.

No-Bake Energy Bites

Chill the mixture and roll into cold bites for grab-and-go snacks.

Coconut Bang Bang Style

Top with shredded coconut and serve with a squeeze of lime for tropical flair.

Vegan Option

Use hearts of palm or artichoke hearts with vegan egg and plant-based binder.

Bang Bang Chicken Bites

Replace salmon with shredded cooked chicken for a poultry twist.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Are these truly keto-friendly?

Yes! With only ~3g net carbs per cake , it fits perfectly within a ketogenic lifestyle.

Can I use regular breadcrumbs or flour?

Not recommended—standard breadcrumbs and flour are high in carbs. Stick with almond flour or pork rinds.

How do I store leftover salmon cakes?

Store cooled portions in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days . Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.

What kind of salmon works best?

Wild-caught pink or sockeye gives the richest flavor and color.

Can I bake instead of fry?

Yes! Place on parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–18 minutes , flipping halfway through.

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Why This Recipe Works So Well

These Keto Bang Bang Salmon Cakes work because of their perfect balance of textures and bold flavors:

• The almond flour gives body and crunch , mimicking traditional breading without gluten.
• The salmon stays tender and juicy , soaking up the rich seasoning during baking.
• And the bang bang sauce adds a sweet-spicy finish , completing the seafood experience.

It’s the kind of dish that makes eating clean feel indulgent—because it tastes so good.

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Serving Suggestions

Looking for creative ways to serve your keto salmon cakes beyond just a plate? Here are some ideas:

In Lettuce Cups

Wrap warm bites in large lettuce leaves for handheld eats.

Over Greens

Top arugula or kale with warm salmon cakes and drizzle with balsamic glaze.

With Dipping Sauces

Try chipotle mayo, ranch, or tzatziki for extra flair.

At a Dinner Party

Cut into mini bites and arrange on a platter with toothpicks for appetizer servings.

As Leftovers

Crumble over mashed cauliflower or mix with eggs for fusion-style breakfast bowls.

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Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

Let’s take a quick look at the health benefits of what makes this dish special:

Wild-Caught Salmon

High in omega-3s and lean protein—supports heart function and muscle repair.

Almond Flour

Packed with vitamin E and healthy fats—great for brain function and satiety.

Bang Bang Seasoning

Natural metabolism boosters—enhances fat-burning and circulation.

Even though these are salmon cakes, they’re packed with nutrients that make them more than just a snack—it’s a smart addition to your balanced lifestyle when enjoyed mindfully.

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Final Thoughts: A Must-Try Comfort Dish for Seafood Lovers

These Keto Bang Bang Salmon Cakes prove that going low-carb doesn’t mean missing out on bold, comforting flavors. With their crispy shell, soft center, and signature spicy-sweet finish, they’re the kind of dish that turns a simple seafood patty into something magical—even without bread or sugary sauces.

Whether you’re new to keto, looking for a fast dinner idea, or want to impress with homemade flair, these salmon cakes deserve a spot in your kitchen. They’re easy to make, customizable, and loved by kids and adults alike.

So go ahead—whip up a batch, share them with family, or savor them solo. Either way, you’re treating yourself to something worth celebrating.

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