If you’re craving something crispy, savory, and downright comforting, look no further than Salmon Patties. This classic dish takes humble pantry staples and transforms them into golden, flavor-packed patties that are just as perfect for a weeknight dinner as they are for a special brunch. Moist on the inside and irresistibly crunchy on the outside, Salmon Patties are a delicious way to enjoy seafood with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. Whether you serve them with a squeeze of lemon or a dollop of your favorite sauce, these patties are always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about Salmon Patties is how they rely on simple, familiar ingredients—each playing a key role in the taste, texture, or color of the final result. Here’s what you’ll need, along with tips to make every element shine.

Salmon (2 cans, 6 oz each): The star of the show! Canned, boneless, skinless salmon is convenient and packed with protein.
Breadcrumbs or crushed crackers (1/2 cup): These bind everything together and add that crave-worthy crispness.
Eggs (2 large): Essential for holding the patties together and giving them a tender interior.
Onion (1/4 cup, finely chopped): Adds a touch of sweetness and a little crunch to balance the richness of the salmon.
Mayonnaise (2 tablespoons): Ensures the patties stay moist and flavorful.
Dijon mustard (1 tablespoon): Brings a gentle tang and depth of flavor that brightens each bite.
Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): A splash of citrus that wakes up all the flavors.
Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Subtle garlic warmth ties everything together.
Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Just the right amount of spice to enhance the savoriness.
Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, optional): Adds a pop of color and freshness—totally worth it if you have some on hand.
Oil for frying (2 tablespoons): Vegetable or olive oil both work well for that beautiful, golden crust.

How to Make Salmon Patties

Step 1: Prepare the Mixture

Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl and adding the drained salmon, breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers), eggs, finely chopped onion, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, black pepper, and fresh parsley if you’re using it. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. You’re looking for a cohesive mixture that holds together easily when pressed—if it feels too wet, add a little more breadcrumbs.

Step 2: Shape the Patties

With clean hands, divide the salmon mixture into 6 to 8 equal portions. Gently shape each portion into a patty about 1/2 inch thick. Don’t worry if they’re not perfectly round—rustic edges just mean more crispy bits!

Step 3: Heat the Oil

Pour the oil into a large skillet and place it over medium heat. Give it a minute or two to get nice and hot—test it by dropping in a breadcrumb; if it sizzles, you’re good to go.

Step 4: Fry the Salmon Patties

Carefully add the patties to the skillet, being sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook them for 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Flip gently with a spatula to keep them intact. If you like an extra-crispy crust, give each side an extra minute.

Step 5: Drain and Serve

Once the Salmon Patties are beautifully browned, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain off any excess oil. Serve them warm and watch them disappear!

How to Serve Salmon Patties

Garnishes

Top your Salmon Patties with a wedge of lemon, a sprinkle of extra parsley, or even a dollop of tartar sauce. For a fun twist, try a swirl of sriracha mayo or a spoonful of homemade remoulade. These little touches bring out the flavors and make every bite feel special.

Side Dishes

Salmon Patties pair well with so many sides. Think creamy mashed potatoes, a crisp green salad, or even roasted vegetables. If you’re in the mood for something classic, serve them with coleslaw and oven fries for a comfort food feast.

Creative Ways to Present

Take your Salmon Patties to the next level by serving them slider-style on mini buns with lettuce and tomato, or pile them high on a grain bowl with quinoa and avocado. They’re also fantastic tucked into a wrap with crunchy veggies and a drizzle of dressing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Salmon Patties keep beautifully in the fridge. Just pop them into an airtight container, and they’ll stay fresh for up to three days. They make a great grab-and-go lunch the next day!

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, freeze the cooked patties in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.

Reheating

To bring back that crispy exterior, reheat Salmon Patties in a skillet over medium heat or use an air fryer for a few minutes. The microwave works in a pinch, but you’ll lose some of that coveted crunch.

FAQs

Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?

Absolutely! If you have leftover cooked salmon, simply flake it and use it in place of canned. You’ll get a slightly different texture and an extra boost of freshness.

What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?

Crushed crackers are an excellent swap, adding extra flavor and crunch. For a gluten-free option, try gluten-free breadcrumbs or even crushed rice cakes.

How do I keep my Salmon Patties from falling apart?

Make sure your mixture isn’t too wet; adding a bit more breadcrumbs or an extra egg can help. Be gentle when flipping them in the skillet, and let them cook until a golden crust forms to help them hold together.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes! Arrange the patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spray them lightly with oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through. They won’t be quite as crispy, but they’ll still be delicious and lighter.

Are Salmon Patties good for meal prep?

They’re fantastic for meal prep! Make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them in sandwiches, salads, or grain bowls throughout the week. They’re just as tasty cold or at room temperature.

Final Thoughts

Salmon Patties are a timeless favorite that’s always worth making, whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself. With their crisp crust and tender, flavorful center, they bring a little joy to every table. Give them a try—you might just find your new go-to seafood dish!

Salmon Patties Recipe

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4.6 from 9 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 6 patties 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

These flavorful Salmon Patties are a quick and easy seafood option made with canned salmon, breadcrumbs, and a blend of spices. Perfectly pan-fried to a golden brown, they make a satisfying main course for any meal and can be served with lemon wedges or your favorite dipping sauce.

Ingredients

Scale

Salmon Patties

2 (6 oz) cans boneless, skinless salmon, drained
1/2 cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers
2 large eggs
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
2 tablespoons oil for frying (vegetable or olive oil)

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Instructions

Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the drained salmon, breadcrumbs, eggs, finely chopped onion, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, black pepper, and chopped fresh parsley until the mixture is well combined.
Form Patties: Shape the mixture into 6 to 8 evenly sized patties, ensuring they hold together well for frying.
Heat Oil: Warm the oil in a skillet over medium heat until hot but not smoking, suitable for pan frying.
Fry Patties: Carefully place the patties into the skillet and cook each side for 3 to 4 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and are cooked through.
Drain Excess Oil: Transfer the cooked patties to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil before serving.
Serve: Enjoy the salmon patties warm with lemon wedges or your choice of dipping sauce for added flavor.

Notes

You can substitute canned salmon with fresh cooked salmon if preferred.
For an extra crispy crust, coat the patties in additional breadcrumbs before frying.
Leftover patties reheat well in a skillet or air fryer, maintaining their crispness.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American