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Salmon Patties Recipe
Some days feel like a marathon I didn’t sign up for — and dinner still has to happen. One busy evening, I found myself staring at a can of salmon, wondering what to make with salmon that’s quick and satisfying. That’s when I threw together these salmon patties — fried to golden perfection, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Courtney here, and I promise these will become a family classic. If you like the recipe, please share it!
These salmon patties recipe uses either canned or fresh salmon, making it super versatile. With simple ingredients and a bit of love, they come together fast and pair wonderfully with a tangy sauce for salmon patties straight from your fridge.
Ready for some cozy, easy cooking? Let’s dive in!
What is Salmon Patties Recipe?
Salmon patties are a delicious way to enjoy salmon in a handheld form that’s great for a quick dinner or snack. Whether you’re using canned salmon or salmon cakes with fresh salmon, these fried salmon patties combine the rich flavor of fish patties with herbs, spices, and just a few staple ingredients to keep it light and wholesome. They’re perfect when you want a simple, comforting meal that doesn’t take forever to make.
Ingredients
- 14 oz canned salmon, drained and flaked (or 12 oz fresh salmon, cooked and flaked)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (can use panko for extra crunch)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2–3 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Fork or spoon (to mix)
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Skillet or frying pan
- Spatula
- Plate lined with paper towels (for draining)
How to Make Salmon Patties Recipe
Step 1:
If using fresh salmon, cook it first by baking, poaching, or pan-searing, then flake with a fork. If using canned salmon, drain and flake it.
Step 2:
In a mixing bowl, combine the salmon, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
Step 3:
Shape the mixture into 6–8 patties, depending on size preference.
Step 4:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Step 5:
Fry the salmon patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
Step 6:
Transfer patties onto a plate lined with paper towels to drain the excess oil.
Step 7:
Serve warm with your favorite sauce for salmon patties.
Some Tips!
- For firmer patties that hold together well, chill the formed patties in the fridge for 15-20 minutes before frying.
- Swap the breadcrumbs for crushed crackers or panko for different textures.
- Add a pinch of Old Bay seasoning or smoked paprika for a flavor twist.
- Make a quick sauce by mixing mayo, lemon juice, and a little garlic powder to dip your fried salmon patties in.
- These can be made ahead and reheated gently in a skillet or oven.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover salmon patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a skillet over low heat until heated through, which keeps the crispiness better than microwaving.
What to Eat With
Salmon patties are fantastic served alongside a fresh green salad or roasted veggies like Creamy Butter beans or Texas Roadhouse Green Beans for a balanced meal. They also pair well with light sauces like tartar or a lemony aioli. If you’re looking for more ideas on what to make with salmon, check out shrimp patties recipes or try fish patties with a side of grilled vegetables for variety.
FAQ
Can I use canned salmon for salmon patties?
Yes! Canned salmon is perfect for salmon patties and often easier to prepare quickly.
How do I prevent salmon patties from falling apart?
Chilling the patties before frying and using enough binder like egg and breadcrumbs helps them hold their shape.
What is a good sauce for salmon patties?
A simple mix of mayonnaise, lemon juice, and herbs works beautifully as a sauce for salmon patties.
Can I freeze salmon patties?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked patties separated by parchment paper and thaw before frying.
Can I substitute tuna for salmon in these patties?
Absolutely, tuna patties recipes work with similar ingredients and method, making a great variation.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for an easy, flavorful dinner or snack, this salmon patties recipe is a winner every time. Whether you use canned salmon patties or fresh salmon cakes, the delicious fried salmon patties and simple sauce for salmon patties will keep everyone coming back for more. Courtney hopes this recipe brings a little cozy comfort and ease to your busy kitchen.
Salmon Patties Recipe
Course: DinnerDifficulty: Easy8
servings15
minutes10
minutes180
kcal25
minutesThis easy salmon patties recipe is crispy on the outside, tender inside, and perfect with a simple sauce. Use canned or fresh salmon for a quick, family-friendly dinner.
Ingredients
14 oz canned salmon, drained and flaked (or 12 oz fresh salmon, cooked and flaked)
½ cup breadcrumbs (panko optional for extra crunch)
¼ cup finely chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 large egg
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon lemon juice
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
2–3 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
Directions
- Prepare Salmon: If using fresh salmon, cook first (bake, poach, or pan-sear) and flake. If using canned salmon, drain and flake.
- Mix Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine salmon, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, mayo, Dijon mustard, parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix gently.
Form Patties: Shape mixture into 6–8 patties. - Heat Oil: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Fry Patties: Cook patties 4–5 minutes per side until golden and crispy. - Drain: Transfer to paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.
Serve: Enjoy warm with a sauce for salmon patties.
Notes
- Chill patties 15–20 minutes before frying for firmer texture.
Swap breadcrumbs for crushed crackers or panko.
Add Old Bay or smoked paprika for extra flavor.
Quick sauce: mix mayo, lemon juice, and a pinch of garlic powder.
Make ahead and reheat gently in a skillet or oven.



