These Crispy Air Fryer Fish Cakes with Garlic & Parsley are golden on the outside, soft and flaky on the inside, and packed with fresh, comforting flavour. Made with simple ingredients and cooked in the air fryer, they are a lighter alternative to traditional deep-fried fish cakes while still delivering excellent texture and taste.
Perfect for weeknight dinners, lunchboxes, or as a starter for guests, this recipe is budget-friendly, easy to prepare, and versatile enough to serve in many different ways.
Why Youโll Love This Recipe
- Crispy exterior without deep frying
- Light, fluffy interior with real fish flavour
- Made with simple, affordable ingredients
- Quick cooking time using an air fryer
- Ideal for meal prep and leftovers
Ingredients (Makes 8โ10 Fish Cakes)
For the Fish Cakes
- 500 g white fish fillets (hake, cod, haddock, or pollock)
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- ยฝ cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating if needed)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Cooking
- Olive oil spray or a small amount of oil for brushing
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Potatoes
Boil the diced potatoes in salted water until soft. Drain well and mash until smooth. Set aside to cool slightly.
2. Cook the Fish
Place the fish fillets in lightly salted water and simmer gently for 5โ7 minutes, or until just cooked and flaky. Drain and allow to cool slightly, then flake into small pieces, removing any bones.
3. Make the Fish Cake Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, flaked fish, garlic, parsley, onion, egg, breadcrumbs, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until everything is well combined but not overworked.
The mixture should be firm enough to shape. If it feels too soft, add a little more breadcrumbs.
4. Shape the Fish Cakes
Using your hands, form the mixture into evenly sized patties. Lightly coat each fish cake with breadcrumbs if you prefer extra crispiness.
5. Air Fry the Fish Cakes
Preheat the air fryer to 190ยฐC (375ยฐF). Lightly spray or brush the fish cakes with oil on both sides.
Arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each one. Cook for 10โ12 minutes, turning halfway, until golden brown and crispy.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with tartar sauce, garlic mayo, or yoghurt dip
- Pair with a fresh green salad or coleslaw
- Enjoy with chips or roasted vegetables
- Serve on a bun as a fish cake burger
Storage and Reheating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days
- Reheat in the air fryer for 3โ4 minutes to restore crispiness
- Avoid microwaving if possible, as it softens the coating
Variations and Tips
- Add spring onions or chives for extra freshness
- Replace parsley with dill or coriander for a different flavour profile
- Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a twist
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika or chilli flakes for gentle heat
Final Thoughts
Crispy Air Fryer Fish Cakes with Garlic & Parsley are a reliable, family-friendly recipe that delivers comfort and flavour without heavy frying. They are easy to prepare, economical, and adaptable to whatever you have on hand, making them a great addition to your regular meal rotation.
Whether served as a main dish, a light lunch, or a snack, these fish cakes prove that simple ingredients and smart cooking methods can still produce delicious, satisfying results.