With millions of views, this Salmon Patties recipe has become a go-to for many, and for good reason! As someone who’s enjoyed making these since childhood, I can confidently say this recipe provides all the secrets to creating the most flavorful salmon patties from simple canned salmon and everyday ingredients. It’s the ideal quick and easy dinner solution, especially perfect for those busy weeknights.
While you’re exploring, don’t forget to check out other delicious seafood recipes. If you become a fan of this recipe, you might also love Southern Salmon Patties and Lemon Basil Salmon Patties. This salmon patty recipe shares similarities with my Crab Cakes, which are incredibly tasty when paired with homemade remoulade sauce or basil garlic aioli.
Why This Salmon Patty Recipe is a Must-Try
- A Proven Family Favorite: This isn’t just any recipe; it’s one of my most loved and most shared recipes. Even those who aren’t typically salmon enthusiasts find themselves enjoying these salmon patties. They’ve truly become a dinner staple in many households, including mine!
- Pantry-Friendly Ingredients: No need to worry about missing fresh ingredients or last-minute grocery runs. This recipe is your ultimate backup plan, utilizing canned salmon which is a fantastic pantry staple. It’s perfect for those times when dinner needs to happen, and the pantry is your best resource.
- Ready in Minutes: Time is precious, especially on weeknights. This recipe understands that, offering a complete and satisfying dinner in under 30 minutes. Quick, easy, and delicious – it’s the trifecta for weeknight cooking.
- Incredibly Versatile: The recipe below is a solid foundation, but the beauty of salmon patties lies in their adaptability. I’ve personally made countless variations, and the recipe is very forgiving to substitutions and swaps. Chances are, if you’re missing an ingredient, you likely have something on hand that will work just as well.
Essential Ingredients for Salmon Patties
For detailed ingredient amounts, please refer to the recipe card at the end of this post. Keep reading to discover exciting ingredient variation ideas!
- Canned Salmon: For the best flavor, red salmon is recommended; however, pink salmon is a more budget-friendly option that still delivers great taste.
- Eggs: These are crucial as a binder, ensuring your salmon patties hold their shape perfectly during cooking.
- Bread Crumbs: Panko bread crumbs are my top choice for their light and crispy texture, adding a delightful crunch to each bite.
- Parmesan Cheese: This not only enhances the flavor but also contributes to a beautiful golden-brown crust when cooked.
- Green Onion: Fresh green onions introduce a mild, savory flavor that complements the richness of the salmon.
- Lime: A squeeze of fresh lime juice adds a zesty brightness, cutting through the richness and elevating the overall flavor profile. Lemon juice also works wonderfully.
- Oil: For frying, choose a neutral oil like avocado oil or olive oil. The oil is key to achieving that desirable crispy exterior.
Step-by-Step Guide: Making Salmon Patties
Full, detailed instructions are available in the recipe card below.
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon. If your canned salmon includes bones and skin, you have the option to either remove them for a smoother texture or mash them finely and mix them in for added nutrients. Make sure to drain any excess liquid from the canned salmon.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the drained canned salmon with eggs, panko bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced green onions, and lime juice. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add oil.
Step 3: Form and Cook the Patties. Take portions of the salmon mixture and gently form them into patties by hand. They should be about ¾ to 1 inch thick. Carefully place the formed patties in a single layer into the preheated skillet with hot oil. Ensure not to overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. Fry until golden brown and crispy on the bottom, then flip once and continue cooking until equally golden and crispy on the other side.
Step 4: Serve. Once cooked to perfection, remove the salmon patties from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve hot and enjoy with your favorite side dishes!
Recipe Variations and Ingredient Swaps
Over the years, I’ve experimented with this recipe, and so have my readers, leading to some fantastic variations! Feel free to customize your salmon patties to your taste.
- Bread Crumb Alternatives: Panko bread crumbs are excellent, but if you’re looking to switch things up, try crushed Saltine crackers or Ritz crackers for a different texture. A mix of cornmeal and breadcrumbs can add a lovely Southern touch and extra crispness. For a gluten-free option, almond flour or hazelnut meal work surprisingly well, providing a nutty flavor.
- Binder Options Beyond Eggs: While eggs are the traditional binder, mayonnaise can be used as a flavorful alternative, adding moisture and richness. Mayonnaise essentially combines eggs and oil, making it a logical and delicious substitution that many readers swear by.
- Flavorful Onion Alternatives: Fresh green onions offer a mild flavor, but you can also use minced yellow onion, sautéed until softened, for a deeper savory note. Crispy fried onions, similar to those used in green bean casserole, can add a delightful crunch and intense onion flavor. Diced bell peppers can also be mixed in for sweetness and color.
- Citrus Zest and Juice: While lime juice is fantastic with salmon, lemon juice is an equally great substitute. For an even more pronounced citrus flavor, consider adding lime or lemon zest to the mixture.
- Spice it Up with Seasonings: The possibilities are endless when it comes to seasonings. Fresh herbs like basil, thyme, and especially fresh dill enhance the natural flavors of salmon beautifully. A touch of Dijon mustard or hot sauce can add a flavorful kick. Old Bay seasoning is also a popular choice for seafood recipes like salmon patties. And of course, don’t forget to season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Alternate Cooking Methods
While pan-frying in oil yields the crispiest and most flavorful salmon patties, you can also bake or air fry them for healthier alternatives.
- Oven Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the salmon patties on top. Lightly spray or brush both sides with olive oil. Bake for 5-10 minutes, then carefully flip, spray or brush with a bit more olive oil, and bake for another 5 minutes. For extra crispiness, you can broil each side for a minute or two before flipping, keeping a close watch to prevent burning.
- Air Frying: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Spray or brush both sides of each salmon patty with olive oil. Place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd. Air fry for about 10 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through if necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Given the popularity of this recipe, I’ve received numerous questions and helpful suggestions from readers. Here’s some additional information to help you achieve salmon patty perfection:
Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned salmon?
Yes, while this recipe is specifically designed for canned salmon for convenience and pantry-friendliness, you can certainly use fresh salmon. Ensure your fresh salmon is cooked thoroughly and flaked before incorporating it into the recipe.
Why are my salmon patties falling apart?
If your salmon patties are not holding their shape, it’s likely due to insufficient binding. Try adding an extra whole egg, an additional egg yolk, or a tablespoon or two of mayonnaise to the mixture. These will help bind the ingredients together more effectively.
Can I prepare salmon patties ahead of time and freeze them?
Absolutely! Salmon patties are freezer-friendly. You can shape the patties and freeze them uncooked for future use. Wrap them individually and securely to prevent freezer burn. When ready to cook, you can cook them directly from frozen, just adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they are heated through and cooked properly.
What are good side dishes to serve with salmon patties?
Salmon patties are versatile and pair well with a variety of sides. I often serve them with brown rice and a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. Other popular choices include creamy mashed potatoes, roasted broccoli, or sautéed green beans. Consider serving them with a flavorful sauce like tartar sauce, remoulade, or aioli for dipping.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftover salmon patties are best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 1-2 months.
Delicious Ways to Use Leftover Salmon Patties
- Reheat for Crispy Patties: For the best texture, reheat leftover salmon patties in a skillet with a bit of oil over medium heat. This method helps them regain their crispiness. Alternatively, you can microwave them in short intervals at half power until heated through, though they may not be as crispy.
- Salmon Patty Hash: Transform leftovers into a flavorful hash! Roughly chop a leftover salmon patty and combine it in a skillet with leftover brown rice and green salad (or other cooked vegetables). Sauté everything together with a bit of butter or oil until heated through and slightly crispy. It’s a delicious and creative way to repurpose leftovers.
- Cold Salmon Patty Salad Topper: Cold salmon patties are surprisingly delicious on a fresh green salad. Slice or crumble a cold patty over a bed of greens, and add your favorite salad toppings like avocado, sunflower seeds, and a light vinaigrette dressing for a quick and satisfying make-ahead lunch.
Best Side Dish Pairings
I love serving Salmon Patties with a combination of a starch and a vegetable for a complete and balanced meal.
Brown rice is my go-to starch, providing a healthy and slightly nutty base. They are also fantastic with creamy Instant Pot mashed potatoes for a comforting classic.
For vegetables, a simple green leafy salad is always a refreshing choice. If I’m cooking a vegetable side dish, I often opt for roasted broccoli, wilted spinach with garlic, or roasted green beans, all of which complement the salmon patties beautifully.
More Salmon Recipes to Explore
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Salmon Patties Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 8 patties
Author: Krissy Allori
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Delicious and easy salmon patties made with canned salmon, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
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Equipment
- Large Bowl
- Large Skillet
Ingredients
- 24 ounces canned salmon (3-8oz cans with no skin/bones or 2-14.75 cans with skin/bones), drained, red or pink salmon
- 2 large eggs
- 6 green onions, minced
- 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs (https://www.amazon.com/Kikkoman-Panko-Japanese-Style-Crumbs/dp/B000WD3PZM?&linkCode=ll1&tag=selfprocfood-20&linkId=7751c81c2a9b1fa66b569ceb372ecb31&language=enUS&ref=as_li_ss_tl)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 lime, juiced
- 4 tablespoons avocado oil (https://www.amazon.com/BetterBody-Foods-Refined-Non-GMO-Cooking/dp/B07WMQXDXN?&linkCode=ll1&tag=selfprocfood-20&linkId=0f6c6b3b90d0f72aeade4c540db35ff8&language=enUS&ref=as_li_ss_tl) (can use olive oil, increase oil for extra crispiness)
Instructions
- Drain salmon thoroughly. If using canned salmon with bones and skin, remove them or mash and leave them in.
- In a large bowl, combine drained salmon, eggs, green onions, panko bread crumbs, Parmesan, and lime juice. Mix gently to combine. Form into 8 patties, about 1 inch thick. For salmon burgers, make patties larger.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add avocado oil. When oil is hot (a breadcrumb should sizzle), add salmon patties, leaving space between each. Cook in batches if needed. Cook for 5-10 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve warm or cold on salad.
Recipe Notes
- Recipe easily doubles or triples; cook in batches for best crispiness.
- Popular variations: lemon juice, crushed crackers, sautéed yellow onion, cornmeal, fresh dill.
Video
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Nutrition
Calories: 212kcal, Carbohydrates: 5g, Protein: 19g, Fat: 13g, Saturated Fat: 3g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g, Monounsaturated Fat: 7g, Trans Fat: 0.02g, Cholesterol: 99mg, Sodium: 397mg, Potassium: 280mg, Fiber: 1g, Sugar: 1g, Vitamin A: 249IU, Vitamin C: 4mg, Calcium: 258mg, Iron: 1mg
Nutritional information is an approximation.
Did you make this recipe? Share your comments below!
Originally published June 2015, updated with process photos, info, and tips.
