Salmon Ball

Need an appetizer that is excellent for a crowd or a simple starter for home? This Salmon Ball is not only fast and easy - but it's flavorful and delicious, too. Minimal prep work is needed.

The great part about making a salmon ball is that it's just like a cheese ball but with protein! The smoked salmon flavor paired with the cream cheese and panko crumbs will have this recipe disappearing right before your eyes.

I've made this smoked salmon cream cheese ball for parties, family gatherings, and a movie night at home, and I can promise you that it's eaten entirely without issues or complaints every single time. It's incredible the depth of flavor that it has!

Since this smoked salmon ball recipe is made using simple ingredients, there's no reason that you can't whip this up. It's a simple mixture that is excellent fresh or to enjoy as snacks the next day.

Speaking of delicious starter recipes, be sure to check out my Smoked Queso Recipe. This is one dip that you won't be able to stop!

Ingredients

Panko - These give the salmon ball a crisp and crunchy outer layer.

Butter - Used to toast up the panko crumbs.

Smoked salmon - You can buy smoked salmon or make your own Traeger Smoked Salmon.

Cream cheese - Adds the creaminess and also holds all the ingredients together.

Cheddar - Great for adding a salty flavor.

Green onions - For a pop of taste.

Salt and pepper - Simple seasonings are all that you need.

How to make a Salmon Ball

Be sure to scroll to the printable recipe card listed below. I give exact measurements and steps.

Step One: Melt the butter in a pan and then add the panko. Cook for 2-3 minutes until it is browned. Let the mixture cool.

Step Two: Combine the rest of the ingredients and roll them into a large ball.

Step Three: Roll the ball into the cooled panko crumbs. It is best to transfer them to a bowl since the skillet will retain heat.

Step Four: Serve with veggies or crackers.

Variations

The best salmon ball is the one you enjoy so feel free to change up this recipe to your own tastes.

Add Worcestershire sauce - A little bit of this is a great flavor booster.

Add fresh herbs - This salmon mixture would taste great with Italian seasoning and even some fresh cilantro in the mix.

Change up the type of seasoning - Lemon pepper seasoning is always a good idea. Don't forget that Everything Bagel Seasoning goes with everything, too.

Add nuts - Crushed walnuts on the outside are always a great way to add healthy fat and protein.

Keto - Sub in crushed nuts or almond meal for the panko.

Common Questions

How do I serve a smoked salmon cheese ball?

You can place the entire cheese ball on a serving platter and place it right on the table. You can also add some of the spread to crackers to make it simple to grab and enjoy.

How do I store leftovers?

Wrapping the leftover cheese ball in saran wrap or plastic wrap is a must. This will keep it fresh and delicious for the next time you snack.

Is it hard to roll a cheese ball with your hands?

Ensure you have clean hands, and don't let the ingredients be too warm. Having a nice chill to them helps with the rolling of the ball, making it less of a mess for you.

If it gets sticky, you can start rolling it right away. This is also a simple way to shape it without having to stress.

What else do I serve with a cheese ball?

This salmon ball is a party favorite for a reason! Guests will love this addictive gluten-free appetizer. Serve it with sliced veggies, chips, or even toasted bagel bites.

The biggest thing to remember when serving is to have a cheese spreader or some sort of utensil that guests can cut off a small piece or bite. Many will dip their crackers right into the cheese ball, but if the cheeseball is hard or firm, the crackers may actually break, causing a big mess.

Giving them the option to cut off some and have on their plate to them dip into is always an appreciated gesture and thought.

Can you freeze a cheese ball?

Due to the added ingredients, it's not recommended to freeze cheese balls. This is because the cream cheese won't freeze and thaw in the same texture.

You can make a cheeseball ahead of time (1-2 days) and have it in the fridge, ready to serve. If you do the prep ahead of time, don't roll it in the toasted panko crumbs until you're ready to serve and enjoy.

If you roll it and store it, the panko crumbs will lose their crispiness and crunch, which is essential.