Salmon Patties are the ultimate comfort food—crisp on the outside, flavorful and moist inside, and irresistibly simple to whip up on any busy night. This classic dish shines with pantry-friendly ingredients, coming together in less than 30 minutes for a meal that’s as cozy as it is nourishing. Pulling this recipe together means you’re never far from a satisfying, protein-packed dinner that pleases both kids and adults. Whether you’re looking for a speedy weeknight meal, a pescatarian staple, or a creative way to enjoy canned salmon, these patties will become your kitchen’s reliable favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making Salmon Patties requires just a handful of basic ingredients, but each one brings something special—moisture, flavor, texture, or golden color. Gather your staples, and discover how they meld beautifully for patties you’ll make again and again.

Canned salmon: The star of the show; use a 14.75 oz can, drained with bones removed for ease and robust flavor.
Egg: Acts as the binder, holding everything together for perfect patties.
Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and keeps the inside moist without overpowering the fish.
Breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers): Bring body and the perfect crisp edge to each patty; try gluten-free or almond flour for variations.
Finely chopped onion: For a burst of sweetness and a hint of crunch, opt for white or yellow onion.
Chopped fresh parsley: Gives a pop of color and a fragrant herbaceous note; dried parsley also works in a pinch.
Dijon mustard: Provides tang and depth, brightening the overall profile without stealing the show.
Garlic powder: Ensures subtle garlic flavor is evenly dispersed—no risk of raw garlic overpowering each bite.
Salt & black pepper: Don’t skimp, as seasoning balances the richness of the salmon and highlights the other flavors.
Olive oil or butter (for frying): Delivers golden brown crispness and extra flavor while pan-frying.
Lemon wedges (for serving): A final squeeze of brightness that wakes up every bite of your Salmon Patties.

How to Make Salmon Patties

Step 1: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained canned salmon, egg, mayonnaise, breadcrumbs (or your choice of crackers), finely chopped onion, chopped fresh parsley, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Don’t rush this step—use a fork or your hands to really blend everything, making sure the onion and parsley are evenly distributed throughout the mixture. You’re looking for a mixture that just holds together without being overly wet or crumbly.

Step 2: Shape the Patties

Once your mixture is ready, gently scoop out portions and form them into 6 to 8 round patties. Press them lightly between your palms so they keep their shape but aren’t too dense. Each patty should be around an inch thick, which helps them cook through evenly and get that beautifully crisp exterior.

Step 3: Prep the Skillet

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter in a large nonstick skillet set over medium heat. Make sure your oil or butter is hot enough—when you drop in a breadcrumb and it sizzles immediately, you’re ready to go. This ensures maximum crispiness and prevents the patties from sticking.

Step 4: Fry the Salmon Patties

Gently place the patties into the hot skillet, working in batches if needed to avoid crowding. Cook each patty for 3 to 4 minutes per side, flipping only once, until a deep golden crust forms and the centers are heated through. Use a spatula to carefully transfer the finished patties onto a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer your gorgeous Salmon Patties onto a serving dish and garnish with fresh lemon wedges. That quick squeeze of citrus takes them to another level, balancing richness with a burst of brightness. Serve them hot and savor the crispy edges and succulent filling!

How to Serve Salmon Patties

Garnishes

Don’t underestimate the power of a thoughtful garnish. Freshly chopped parsley offers a pop of color and freshness. A classic dollop of tartar sauce or creamy dill sauce pairs beautifully with the salmon flavor. Of course, lemon wedges are a must—just a squeeze brings everything to life. For a touch of heat, scatter a few chili flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce over the top.

Side Dishes

Salmon Patties are endlessly versatile when it comes to sides. Pair them with a crisp green salad, classic coleslaw, or even roasted vegetables for a balanced plate. They’re also delicious next to mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or simply with a crusty loaf of bread to soak up any juices.

Creative Ways to Present

Try sliding a Salmon Patty onto a toasted brioche bun with lettuce, tomato, and pickles for a seafood burger with style. Or break them up into warm tortillas with fresh slaw and chipotle mayo for irresistible fish tacos. You can even top a hearty grain bowl with Salmon Patties, drizzling with a yogurt-dill sauce for a Mediterranean twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover Salmon Patties in an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll stay delicious for up to three days. Some people even think they taste better after a day, as the flavors have extra time to mingle.

Freezing

Wrap individual patties tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to three months. For best results, freeze patties in a single layer, then stack once solid to prevent sticking.

Reheating

To recapture that just-fried texture, reheat your Salmon Patties in a skillet over medium heat until crispy on both sides, about 2 to 3 minutes per side. Alternatively, pop them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes or until heated through. The microwave works in a pinch, but be aware the exterior won’t stay as crisp.

FAQs

Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?

Absolutely! Fresh, cooked, and flaked salmon works beautifully in this recipe. Just make sure it’s fully cooked and cooled before breaking it up and mixing it with the other ingredients.

Do Salmon Patties hold together well without breadcrumbs?

While breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers) help bind the patties and give them structure, you can substitute with almond flour, oat flour, or even mashed cooked potatoes for gluten-free or grain-free needs. The egg and mayo still keep things cohesive!

What can I use instead of mayonnaise?

If you’d like to skip mayo, try plain Greek yogurt or sour cream for similar moisture and tang. You’ll barely notice the difference once the patties are cooked and flavored up.

Which dipping sauces pair best with Salmon Patties?

Tartar sauce is a classic, but don’t miss out on creamy dill sauces, sriracha mayo, lemon aioli, or even a light cucumber-yogurt dip for a refreshing twist. The options are endless!

Can I air-fry Salmon Patties?

Yes, you can! Lightly mist the patties with oil and place in an air fryer basket. Cook at 375°F for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been craving a dish that’s quick, comforting, and wildly versatile, these Salmon Patties are calling your name. With pantry staples and just a few fresh touches, they deliver on flavor and ease every single time. Give this recipe a try—you might just add it to your regular dinner rotation!