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Salmon Patties

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These Salmon Patties are crispy on the outside, tender and flaky on the inside, and packed with savory flavor. Made with canned or cooked fresh salmon, breadcrumbs, herbs, and simple seasonings, they’re an affordable, protein-rich meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Serve them with tartar sauce, lemon wedges, or a fresh salad for a comforting family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Ready in just 30 minutes
  • Crispy golden crust with a tender center
  • Budget-friendly and easy to make
  • Great way to use canned or leftover salmon
  • Perfect for meal prep and freezer-friendly

Recipe Information

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Servings: 6 patties

Ingredients

For the Salmon Patties

  • 2 cans (14.75 ounces each) pink salmon, drained (or 1 pound cooked fresh salmon, flaked)
  • 1 cup plain breadcrumbs (plus extra if needed)
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • ¼ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 2 green onions, finely chopped
  • ¼ cup finely diced onion
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon salt (adjust if using canned salmon)
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil for frying

Optional Add-Ins

  • 2 tablespoons finely diced celery
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • ½ teaspoon hot sauce
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

For Serving

  • Lemon wedges
  • Tartar sauce
  • Remoulade sauce
  • Garlic aioli
  • Coleslaw
  • Mixed green salad

Equipment Needed

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Fork
  • Large nonstick or cast-iron skillet
  • Spatula
  • Paper towel-lined plate

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

Drain the canned salmon well.

Remove any large skin or bones if desired (the soft bones are edible and rich in calcium).

Flake the salmon into a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Make the Mixture

Add to the bowl:

  • Breadcrumbs
  • Eggs
  • Mayonnaise
  • Dijon mustard
  • Lemon juice
  • Green onions
  • Onion
  • Parsley
  • Garlic
  • Old Bay seasoning
  • Paprika
  • Garlic powder
  • Black pepper
  • Salt

Mix gently until everything is evenly combined.

If the mixture feels too wet, add a little more breadcrumbs, one tablespoon at a time.

Let the mixture rest for 5–10 minutes so the breadcrumbs absorb moisture.

Step 3: Shape the Patties

Divide the mixture into 6 equal portions.

Shape each portion into a patty about ¾ inch thick.

If desired, lightly coat both sides with extra breadcrumbs for an even crispier crust.

Step 4: Cook the Patties

Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Carefully place the patties in the skillet without overcrowding.

Cook for 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and heated through.

Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Step 5: Serve

Serve the salmon patties hot with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce.

Pair with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, coleslaw, or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfect Salmon Patties

  • Drain canned salmon thoroughly to avoid a soggy mixture.
  • Chill the mixture for 15–20 minutes if it’s too soft to shape.
  • Don’t flip the patties too early; allow a golden crust to form first.
  • Cook over medium heat so the outside crisps while the inside heats evenly.
  • Fresh herbs add bright flavor, but dried herbs can be substituted if needed.

Delicious Variations

Cheesy Salmon Patties

Add ½ cup shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese to the mixture.

Spicy Salmon Patties

Mix in diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or a splash of hot sauce.

Southern-Style

Replace breadcrumbs with crushed saltine crackers for a traditional texture.

Herb & Lemon

Increase the lemon zest and add fresh dill for a bright, fresh flavor.

Gluten-Free

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.

Storage

Store leftover salmon patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Instructions

Arrange uncooked or cooked patties in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm.

Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months.

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating or cooking.

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