Quick & Flavorful Homemade Salmon Patties Recipe

Crafting delectable salmon patties can turn an ordinary meal into a culinary adventure.

These golden-brown delights blend fresh ingredients with simple techniques.

Seafood enthusiasts appreciate the rich, flaky texture that emerges from careful preparation.

Quick and satisfying, this recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional fish dishes.

Pantry staples combine effortlessly to create a memorable main course.

The secret lies in selecting quality salmon and mixing ingredients with gentle precision.

You’ll find these patties spark conversation and delight around the dinner table.

Grab your skillet and let the cooking magic begin!

Why Salmon Patties Are A Classic Favorite

• Whip Up Quick Seafood Delight: These salmon patties deliver restaurant-quality flavor in just 15 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknight dinners or unexpected hunger pangs.
• Customize with Ease: The recipe allows incredible flexibility, letting you adjust seasonings, swap breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives, or add extra herbs to match your taste preferences.
• Budget-Friendly Protein Boost: Canned salmon transforms into a delicious meal that's wallet-friendly, nutritious, and packed with omega-3 fatty acids, providing excellent value for home cooks seeking affordable protein options.
• Family-Friendly Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults alike will enjoy these crispy, golden patties that hide healthy fish inside a tasty, approachable format, making them an ideal solution for picky eaters or those new to seafood.

Ingredients Needed For Salmon Patties

• Salmon: Fresh or canned salmon provides the main protein and flavor of the patties, wild-caught salmon offers richer taste.
• Egg: Helps bind ingredients together and adds richness to the patty.

• Breadcrumbs, Mayo: Create a tender texture and help hold the patties together, panko breadcrumbs work best for extra crispiness.
• Dijon Mustard, Lemon Juice: Add tangy brightness and depth of flavor to the salmon mixture.

• Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Paprika, Salt, Pepper, Parsley: Classic seasoning combination that provides balanced and aromatic flavor profile, fresh herbs can be substituted for dried parsley.

How To Prepare Salmon Patties With Ease

Step 1: Crumble and Blend Salmon

• Breadcrumbs
• Egg
• Mayonnaise
• Dijon mustard
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Paprika
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Fresh lemon juice
• Chopped parsley

Mix everything together until the ingredients are evenly distributed and form a cohesive mixture.

Step 2: Perfect the Patty Consistency

Gently fold and press the mixture. If the blend feels too loose or wet, sprinkle in additional breadcrumbs. The goal is to create a texture that holds together easily when shaped into patties. Your mixture should be moist but firm enough to form compact salmon cakes.

Step 3: Shape the Patties

Using your hands, carefully form the salmon mixture into circular patties. Make them roughly the size of a standard hamburger, about 3-4 inches in diameter. Ensure each patty is compact and will hold its shape during cooking.

Step 4: Heat the Cooking Surface

Place a large skillet over medium heat. Add a thin layer of oil to prevent sticking and create a golden, crispy exterior. Allow the pan to warm up for a minute or two before adding the patties.

Step 5: Cook to Golden Perfection

Gently place the salmon patties in the heated skillet. Cook for approximately 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust. The patties should be heated through and have a slightly crispy exterior.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the cooked salmon patties to a serving plate. Garnish with additional chopped parsley or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. These patties pair wonderfully with a crisp salad, tartar sauce, or a zesty remoulade.

Tips To Make Better Salmon Patties

• Bind Ingredients Perfectly: Use fresh salmon or well-drained canned salmon to ensure the patties hold together without falling apart during cooking.
• Boost Moisture Control: Add breadcrumbs gradually if the mixture seems too wet, which helps create a firm texture and prevents soggy patties.
• Enhance Flavor Depth: Experiment with fresh herbs like dill or chives instead of parsley to give a unique taste twist to your salmon patties.
• Crisp Up Exterior: Pan-fry in a hot skillet with a touch of olive oil to achieve a golden-brown crust that adds delicious crunchiness to each bite.
• Make Ahead Friendly: Prepare patties in advance and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking, which helps them set and develop richer flavors.

How To Store Salmon Patties Properly

• Refrigerate leftover salmon patties in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking and maintain their delicate texture.
• Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat to preserve moisture and crispy edges.
• For longer storage, freeze uncooked patties by placing them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag once solid – they'll keep perfectly for 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking for best results.

What Goes Well With Salmon Patties

• Zest Up with Crisp Sauvignon Blanc: The bright, citrusy notes of a chilled Sauvignon Blanc perfectly complement the rich salmon, cutting through the patty's richness and enhancing its delicate flavors.
• Pair with Tangy Coleslaw: A zesty, creamy coleslaw with a hint of apple cider vinegar provides a refreshing crunch that balances the salmon patties' smooth texture and adds a delightful contrast.
• Serve Alongside Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned roasted asparagus spears bring an earthy, green element that highlights the patties' herbal notes from parsley and creates a well-rounded meal.
• Match with Lemon Aioli Dip: A homemade lemon aioli dipping sauce echoes the recipe's lemon juice, amplifying the bright, tangy undertones and adding a luxurious creamy element to each bite.

Try Something New With Salmon Patties

• Spicy Cajun Salmon Patties: Add cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, and finely chopped jalapeños for a bold, zesty kick that transforms the classic recipe into a fiery seafood sensation.
• Mediterranean Herbed Salmon Cakes: Incorporate crumbled feta cheese, chopped dill, mint, and a touch of lemon zest to create a bright, Mediterranean-inspired version with tangy and fresh flavors.
• Crunchy Almond-Crusted Salmon Patties: Coat the patties in crushed almonds before pan-frying to add a delightful nutty crunch and extra protein to the traditional salmon cake recipe.
• Asian-Inspired Salmon Fritters: Mix in grated ginger, green onions, sesame oil, and replace Dijon mustard with sriracha for an umami-packed, East Asian-style salmon patty that's bursting with complex flavors.

Salmon Patties FAQ Time

• What type of salmon works best for these patties?

Canned salmon is ideal, but fresh salmon that’s been cooked and flaked will also work perfectly. Just ensure the fish is boneless and well-drained before mixing.

• Can I make these patties gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply replace regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. The texture and flavor will remain the same.

• Are salmon patties healthy?

Yes! Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential nutrients. By baking or pan-frying with minimal oil, you’re creating a nutritious meal that’s both delicious and good for you.

• How do I prevent my salmon patties from falling apart?

The key is to ensure your mixture isn’t too wet. Add extra breadcrumbs if needed, and gently form patties without overworking the mixture. Chilling the patties for 15 minutes before cooking also helps them hold together better.

Salmon Patties Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.9 from 11 reviews

• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Succulent salmon patties blend coastal flavors with homestyle comfort, creating a delightful meal perfect for seafood enthusiasts. Crispy on the outside and tender within, this dish delivers rich, satisfying flavors you’ll crave again and again.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 1 (14.75 ounces / 418 grams) can salmon, drained & flaked (or 2 cups cooked fresh salmon)
• 1 large egg, beaten

Binding and Flavor Enhancers:

• ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• ¼ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley or green onions

Spices and Seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Cooking and Serving:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter (for frying)
• Tartar sauce or garlic aioli
• Lemon wedges
• Fresh dill or parsley

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Flake the salmon thoroughly in a spacious mixing vessel, ensuring no large chunks remain.
2. Integrate breadcrumbs, whisked egg, and mayonnaise into the salmon, creating a cohesive blend.
3. Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper across the mixture, gently folding to distribute seasonings evenly.
4. Drizzle fresh lemon juice and incorporate finely chopped parsley, mixing until ingredients are uniformly distributed.
5. Assess the consistency of the mixture; if it appears too loose, gradually introduce additional breadcrumbs until the texture becomes compact and holds together smoothly.
6. Form the salmon mixture into uniform patties, shaping them with gentle pressure to maintain structural integrity.
7. Heat a skillet with a thin layer of oil over medium-high temperature, allowing the surface to become sufficiently hot.
8. Carefully place salmon patties into the skillet, cooking for approximately 3-4 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust and are heated completely through.
9. Transfer cooked patties to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil and allow brief cooling before serving.

Notes

• Choose fresh or canned salmon for best texture, ensuring no bones remain for a smooth patty experience.
• Gently fold ingredients to prevent overmixing, which can make patties tough and dense instead of light and flaky.
• Chill the mixture for 15-20 minutes before forming patties to help them hold together better during cooking.
• Swap breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers for a celiac-friendly version.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 16 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 20 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg