Get ready to meet your new go-to weeknight favorite: The Best Salmon Patties! With crisp, golden exteriors and tender, flavorful centers, these beauties are a delicious blend of canned salmon, fresh aromatics, and a handful of pantry staples. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for an easy way to add more fish to your routine, you’ll love how effortlessly this recipe comes together and how perfectly it fits any meal, from a casual family supper to an impressive brunch.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What I absolutely adore about The Best Salmon Patties is how each ingredient adds something special—there’s no fuss, just pure flavor. From the bright zing of lemon juice to the crunchy bite of breadcrumbs or crackers, every component plays a part in shaping that irresistible texture and taste.
- Salmon (1 can, 14.75 oz): Canned salmon keeps things simple and affordable, yet still delivers that classic rich flavor. Flaking it well ensures tender patties every time.
- Onion (1/2 cup, finely chopped): Adds a savory punch and a subtle hint of sweetness, making each bite more interesting.
- Breadcrumbs or crushed saltine crackers (1/2 cup): These help hold everything together while adding a bit of crunch and body.
- Eggs (2 large): Eggs act as the binder, so your patties stay together as they fry and don’t fall apart in the pan.
- Mayonnaise (1/4 cup): A creamy essential—it makes the patties moist and adds richness without overpowering the salmon.
- Dijon mustard (1 tablespoon): For a punch of tangy flavor that wakes up all the other ingredients.
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Freshness is key; just a splash brings brightness and balances out the richness of the salmon.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): A touch of garlic gives a savory backbone without being too bold.
- Paprika (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a gentle depth and an inviting color to your patties.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (2 tablespoons, optional): For a burst of herbal green, parsley lightens up the mix beautifully.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Start with a pinch and add more if needed—taste is everything here!
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons for frying): Helps achieve that irresistible golden crust on every patty.
How to Make The Best Salmon Patties
Step 1: Mix Up the Patty Mixture
Grab a large mixing bowl and toss in the salmon, onion, breadcrumbs, eggs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, paprika, parsley (if you’re feeling fancy), and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Using a fork or your (clean) hands, gently combine everything just until it comes together; you want it mixed but not mushed. This is where the magic starts—already, the mixture smells amazing!
Step 2: Shape the Patties
Divide the mixture into 6 equal portions; using lightly damp hands helps prevent sticking. Gently form each portion into a patty, about the size of your palm and just over half an inch thick. Press just enough for them to hold their shape—not too loose, not too tight. Line them up on a plate and get ready for the sizzling part.
Step 3: Fry to Golden Perfection
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, carefully add the patties, leaving space between each one. Fry for 3 to 4 minutes per side, resisting the urge to flip early. You’re looking for a deep golden crust and perfectly heated-through centers. Drain the finished patties on a paper towel-lined plate to keep them crisp.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
While the patties are still warm and inviting, serve them up! Whether you keep it classic with a squeeze of fresh lemon or set out some zippy dipping sauces, these are best enjoyed right away, golden and fragrant. The Best Salmon Patties truly shine as soon as they hit the table.
How to Serve The Best Salmon Patties
Garnishes
Top your salmon patties with a dollop of tangy tartar sauce, a handful of chopped fresh herbs (like dill or parsley), or a quick squeeze of fresh lemon for maximum brightness. If you’re feeling a little spicy, a drizzle of sriracha mayo adds fantastic kick and color.
Side Dishes
The Best Salmon Patties are happy alongside almost any side, but I highly recommend serving them with a simple green salad, sweet potato fries, or even a scoop of classic coleslaw. Creamy mashed potatoes or roasted veggies also make delicious partners for a heartier meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try tucking these patties into a brioche bun with lettuce and tomato for a fun salmon burger, or serve miniature versions atop a bed of greens as a stunning starter. You can also pair them with a poached egg for a luxe brunch twist that always impresses.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store The Best Salmon Patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking and help them stay fresh and flavorful.
Freezing
Salmon patties freeze beautifully! Cool them completely, then layer with parchment in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They can be frozen for up to two months: just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
To bring your patties back to crispy, warm life, reheat them on a baking sheet in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, or until hot throughout. You can also pop them in an air fryer for a couple of minutes for extra crunch.
FAQs
Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?
Absolutely! If you have leftover cooked salmon or want to use fresh fillets, just flake the amount called for in the recipe. It brings an extra level of freshness to The Best Salmon Patties, but canned salmon is both practical and delicious here.
How can I make these gluten-free?
It’s easy! Swap regular breadcrumbs or crackers for your favorite gluten-free alternatives. The patties hold together just as well, and no one will miss the gluten.
Can I bake the patties instead of frying?
Yes! Arrange the formed patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spray them lightly with oil, and bake at 400°F for 15 to 18 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method gives you all the flavor with a little less mess and oil.
What kind of sauce goes best with The Best Salmon Patties?
Classic tartar sauce or zesty remoulade are always hits, but don’t sleep on homemade lemon-dill yogurt sauce or a spicy aioli. Even a simple squeeze of lemon does wonders.
Can I make the patty mixture ahead of time?
Definitely! Make the mixture up to a day ahead, shape into patties, and store covered in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, just pop them into the skillet or oven. Meal prep has never tasted so good.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been searching for a reliable, crowd-pleasing seafood recipe, The Best Salmon Patties are about to become a staple in your kitchen. There’s something deeply comforting and satisfying in each golden, savory bite. Give them a try and discover just how delicious (and easy!) homemade salmon patties can be!
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The Best Salmon Patties Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 6 patties
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These salmon patties are a delightful combination of canned salmon, aromatic seasonings, and binding ingredients, pan-fried to crispy perfection. A quick and easy meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 (14.75 oz) can of salmon, drained and flaked
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs or crushed saltine crackers
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Optional Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for frying
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine salmon, onion, breadcrumbs, eggs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, paprika, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Shape Patties: Divide the mixture into 6 portions and shape each into a patty.
- Cook Patties: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook patties for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Serve: Drain patties on a paper towel-lined plate. Serve warm with your favorite sauce or side dish.
Notes
- You can use cooked fresh salmon instead of canned.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Patties can be baked at 400°F for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 patty
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
