Air Fryer Fish Cakes
Ready in about 38 minutes.
Published by the RecipeAirFryer editorial team · How we source times · Updated
Times and temperatures come from our reviewed cooking database. Explanatory text on each page is generated from that entry so the numbers stay consistent.
Classic British fish cakes with flaky white fish, fluffy mash and fresh herbs in a crisp breadcrumb shell. The air fryer gives a golden crust while keeping the middle soft.
Written for 4. Cook in batches rather than stacking if you scale up.
Ingredients
- 400 g cooked white fish, flaked
- 400 g mashed potato, cooled
- 2 spring onions, chopped
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 egg, beaten
- 100 g panko breadcrumbs
- Salt and black pepper
Method
- 1Mix the fish, mash, spring onions, parsley, mustard, lemon zest, salt and pepper.
- 2Shape into 8 patties and chill for 15 minutes.
- 3Dip each cake in beaten egg, then coat in panko.
- 4Preheat the air fryer to 190°C/375°F and mist with oil.
- 5Air fry for 12-14 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and hot through.
- 6Serve with tartare sauce and lemon wedges.
Tips for the best results
- Chilling firms the cakes so they hold together while cooking.
- Use cold, dry mash so the mixture is not too wet.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Crowding the basket so air fryer fish cakes steams instead of browning.
- Skipping the flip halfway, which leaves one side pale.
- Letting wet coating pieces touch, which peels the crust and keeps it soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What temperature and time for air fryer fish cakes?
A typical starting point is 190°C / 375°F for 12-14 min, flip halfway. Thickness and wattage change the finish, so check early.
Can I make air fryer fish cakes ahead?
Cook it, cool it quickly, and refrigerate. Reheat in the air fryer at a slightly lower temperature so the outside does not dry before the middle is hot.
How many people does air fryer fish cakes serve?
This recipe is written for 4. For a fuller basket, cook in batches rather than stacking, or add a couple of minutes and shake more often.