Best Salmon Patties Recipe You’ll Love

Salmon patties are a classic comfort food—crispy outside, tender inside, and easy to prepare. Whether you’re using canned salmon or fresh, these protein-rich cakes are perfect for weeknight meals, quick lunches, or meal prep.

In this detailed guide, you’ll learn how to make salmon patties, discover variations for different diets, and find smart serving ideas that pair beautifully with side dishes like cheesy mashed potatoes.

Why Salmon Patties Are a Delicious and Healthy Choice

Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential nutrients, making these patties as nourishing as they are tasty. Plus, they’re incredibly adaptable: you can add fresh herbs, spices, or even leftover ingredients from your fridge.

Want to double the flavor? Consider pairing your patties with a sauce like the one used in tangy deviled eggs with relish for a tangy, creamy contrast.

Key Ingredients in Salmon Patties

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Canned or fresh salmon
• Eggs (for binding)
• Breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or oats
• Finely chopped onions or green onions
• Optional add-ins: mustard, herbs, hot sauce, lemon zest

Tip: For gluten-free, swap breadcrumbs with ground oats or crushed gluten-free crackers.

How to Make Salmon Patties (Step-by-Step)

1. Prep the salmon
   • Drain canned salmon well. Remove bones/skin if preferred.
   • If using fresh, cook and flake beforehand.
2. Mix
   • Combine all ingredients in a bowl.
   • Mix until firm enough to shape. Add more crumbs if too wet.
3. Shape and cook
   • Form patties about ½ inch thick.
   • Pan-fry with oil for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown.

For a no-fuss method, check out this air fryer chicken breast recipe and adapt it for salmon patties by adjusting cook time.

Flavor Variations

Experiment with global flavor styles:

• Southern: Add Old Bay, serve with creamed peas
• Mediterranean: Include feta, lemon, and oregano
• Asian: Try soy sauce, scallions, and sesame oil

You can also draw inspiration from savory, cheesy blends like those in this easy crack burger recipe—substitute salmon for beef to keep things light.

Sauces and Sides to Serve With Salmon Patties

Top your patties with:

• Tartar sauce
• Garlic dill yogurt
• Aioli
• Hot honey glaze

Sides that work well:

• Cheesy mashed potatoes
• Steamed veggies or roasted carrots
• Light salads or slaws
• Brown rice or couscous

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

• Refrigerate: Store in airtight container for 3 days
• Freeze: Wrap in parchment and freeze for up to 3 months
• Reheat: Oven or skillet to retain crisp texture

Make It Diet-Friendly

Customize your patties to suit your diet:

• Keto: Use almond flour or pork rinds
• Gluten-free: Swap in oats or gluten-free crumbs
• Dairy-free: Avoid cheese and opt for plant-based sauces
• Low-carb: Serve in lettuce wraps or over zoodles

Pair with low-carb sides like steamed cauliflower or baked zucchini for a wholesome plate.

Health Benefits of The Recipe

These patties are:

• High in lean protein
• Packed with omega-3s
• Lower in fat (especially when baked)
• A good source of vitamin B12 and selenium

Tips for Kids and Families

• Use mild flavors
• Shape into mini patties or “nuggets”
• Serve with ranch or ketchup
• Great for lunchboxes or snacks

Want more family-friendly meal ideas? Browse simple, comforting classics like chicken pot pie that pair well with salmon patties for larger dinners.

Leftover Ideas

Use leftover salmon patties in:

• Sandwiches or wraps
• Over salad greens with vinaigrette
• Crumbled in a breakfast scramble
• Topped with poached egg for brunch

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not draining salmon properly
• Using too little binder (they fall apart)
• Overmixing (makes them dense)
• Overcooking (dries them out)

FAQs

1. What are salmon patties made of?

Salmon patties are typically made from a mix of salmon (either canned or cooked fresh), breadcrumbs or crackers, eggs, onions, and various seasonings. These ingredients work together to form a cohesive mixture that can be shaped into patties and pan-fried or baked

2. Can you bake salmon patties instead of frying them?

Yes, baking is a great alternative to frying, especially if you want a healthier version. Simply bake the patties at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning. Spraying or brushing them lightly with oil helps achieve a crisp exterior.

3. Why do my salmon patties fall apart?

Common reasons include:

• Not enough egg or binder (like breadcrumbs or oats)
• Too much moisture in the salmon or added veggies
• Overmixing, which can break the mixture apart

Fix: Add more dry binder or chill the mixture before shaping.

4. Is canned salmon cooked?

Yes, canned salmon is fully cooked and safe to eat straight from the can. You can use it as-is in your patties or lightly heat it up during cooking. Some people remove the skin and bones, but both are edible and nutritious.

5. Are salmon patties healthy?

Absolutely! They’re:

• High in protein
• Rich in omega-3 fatty acids
• Low in carbs (especially if baked or made without breadcrumbs)
• Loaded with vitamin D, B12, and selenium

To make them even healthier, use whole food binders like oats, skip processed sauces, and opt for baking over frying.

6. Can I freeze salmon patties?

Yes! Both raw and cooked patties freeze well.

• To freeze raw: Shape the patties and place them on a parchment-lined tray. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag.
• To freeze cooked: Let them cool completely before wrapping and freezing.

They’ll last up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw in the fridge before reheating or cooking.

7. What sauces go well with salmon patties?

Try these options:

• Tartar sauce
• Lemon-dill yogurt sauce
• Garlic aioli
• Wasabi mayo (for a spicy twist)
• Creamy sriracha

Pro Tip: You can draw inspiration from zesty sauces like those in tangy deviled eggs for a unique pairing.

8. What’s the difference between salmon patties and salmon cakes?

The terms are often used interchangeably. However:

• Salmon patties tend to be simpler, more rustic, and often Southern-style
• Salmon cakes may include more gourmet ingredients like herbs, gourmet sauces, or specialty binders

Either way, they follow the same basic method of combining salmon with a binder and flavorings, then forming into patties.

9. Can I make salmon patties without eggs?

Yes, you can substitute the egg binder with:

• Mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes
• Ground flaxseed mixed with water (1 tbsp flax + 2.5 tbsp water)
• Mashed beans or lentils
• Vegan mayo or a touch of nut butter

The key is to find a sticky component that helps hold the mixture together.

10. What can I serve with salmon patties?

They pair well with:

• Cheesy mashed potatoes
• Roasted vegetables or green beans
• Rice or couscous
• Salad with vinaigrette
• Air fryer chicken breast (for a protein-rich duo)

Add a bright dipping sauce or lemon wedges for an extra pop.

Conclusion

Salmon patties are the perfect go-to meal—versatile, healthy, and easy to make. From pantry staple to plated masterpiece, these protein-packed patties can evolve into a Southern comfort meal or a Mediterranean delicacy with just a few tweaks.

Want to explore more simple, crave-worthy recipes? Try the marry me chicken or baked chicken breast for additional dinner inspiration.

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