If you’re looking for a hearty, budget-friendly, and incredibly tasty dinner idea, this easy salmon patties recipe has you covered. Whether you’re using pantry-staple canned salmon or freshly cooked fillets, these crispy golden cakes come together in no time and bring a satisfying crunch with every bite. Plus, they’re super versatile—perfect for a quick weeknight meal, a brunch spread, or even meal prep lunches. And if you’re new to seafood or just want something foolproof and flavor-packed, you’re in for a treat.
Discover great ideas like Cookies and Cream Protein Powder Cookies to pair with your dinner for a sweet finale.
Let’s break down why these salmon patties deserve a spot in your recipe rotation.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Easy Salmon Patties Recipe
What Makes This Salmon Patty Recipe Stand Out
There are a ton of salmon patty recipes out there, but what makes this one a go-to is its simplicity and reliability. It’s beginner-friendly, yet yields results worthy of a professional kitchen. Here’s why:
- Quick Prep: You’ll have dinner on the table in under 30 minutes.
- Affordable: Canned salmon is a budget-saver that doesn’t skimp on taste.
- Customizable: Swap ingredients like breadcrumbs for flour or almond meal.
- Crispy Outside, Tender Inside: The perfect contrast in every bite.
- Kid & Family-Friendly: Mild flavors with room for bold seasoning twists.
It’s a fantastic entry-level seafood recipe if you’ve been hesitant to cook fish at home.
A Quick Look at Nutritional Value & Benefits of Salmon
Salmon isn’t just tasty—it’s a nutritional powerhouse. Whether wild-caught or canned, it brings:
| Nutrient | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Omega-3 Fats | Great for brain and heart health |
| Protein | Essential for muscle and tissue repair |
| Vitamin D | Supports bone health and immune system |
| Selenium | Powerful antioxidant |
| B12 | Boosts energy and supports nerve health |
If you’re looking to make healthier food choices, this easy salmon patties recipe fits right in. It’s low in carbs, high in protein, and when pan-fried in olive oil or avocado oil, even heart-friendly.
Learn more about comfort food meals like Beef Short Ribs Oven Baked Recipe that also nourish your body.
Ingredients for Easy Salmon Patties
Pantry Staples and Fresh Additions Explained
One of the best things about this easy salmon patties recipe is that it uses ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Ingredients
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Canned salmon | The star of the dish – flavorful and flaky |
| Egg | Acts as a binder to hold patties together |
| Breadcrumbs | Adds structure and helps with crispiness |
| Onion (minced) | Adds savory flavor and moisture |
| Garlic powder | Enhances overall taste |
| Salt & pepper | Essential seasoning |
| Olive oil | For pan-frying and golden crispiness |
You can also add parsley, dijon mustard, or a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
Don’t like onions? Sub them out for chopped scallions. No garlic powder? Use minced fresh garlic for a sharper punch.
Why Canned Salmon Works Best
Canned salmon is not only affordable and shelf-stable—it’s packed with protein and often includes skin and bones, which add extra nutrients. Just drain it well before use. If using skinless and boneless canned salmon, the process is even easier.
Looking for inspiration? Try Air Fry Salmon Bites for another easy and delicious way to enjoy salmon.
Optional Swaps: Flour, Breadcrumbs & Low-Carb Options
No Breadcrumbs? Try These Instead
Need to make these gluten-free or keto-friendly? Here are excellent breadcrumb alternatives for salmon patties:
| Substitute | Best For |
|---|---|
| Almond flour | Low-carb, nutty flavor |
| Crushed pork rinds | Keto-friendly, ultra-crispy |
| Oats (quick oats) | Adds texture and mild flavor |
| Panko | Crunchier than regular breadcrumbs |
| Cooked quinoa | Protein boost and gluten-free |
Can You Use Flour Instead of Breadcrumbs?
Absolutely! Flour helps bind the patties just like breadcrumbs. Stick with all-purpose flour or experiment with whole wheat flour for added fiber. You may need to tweak the amount of egg depending on the flour’s absorbency.
Check out our lesser-known favorite: Cookie Butter Protein Powder if you love recipes with pantry staples that offer surprising flavors.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Salmon Patties
Prepping the Salmon: Fresh vs. Canned
When it comes to this easy salmon patties recipe, using canned salmon is the quickest route. But if you’ve got leftover cooked salmon or prefer fresh, go for it! Just follow these quick prep steps:
Using Canned Salmon
- Drain thoroughly. Excess moisture will make your patties fall apart.
- Remove bones and skin, if present. Though they’re edible and packed with calcium, some prefer a smoother texture.
- Flake with a fork to break the fish into fine pieces—this helps with uniform mixing.
Using Fresh or Cooked Salmon
- Cook first (grilled, baked, or poached).
- Let cool, then flake into small chunks.
- Ensure the fish isn’t too wet—pat dry with a paper towel if needed.
Using either kind, your salmon should be moist but not watery before mixing.
Mixing, Shaping & Frying for Perfect Results
Here’s the full breakdown to bring these delicious patties together:
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix the Base
In a medium bowl, combine:- 1 can (14–15 oz) salmon, flaked
- 1 egg
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (or your chosen substitute)
- ¼ cup finely chopped onion
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped parsley, 1 tsp dijon mustard
- Form the Patties
- Divide the mixture into 4–6 equal portions.
- Use your hands to form into flat, round patties about ½-inch thick.
- If the mix feels too wet, add a tablespoon more breadcrumbs or flour.
- Pan-Fry to Golden Perfection
- Heat 1–2 tablespoons of olive oil in a non-stick or cast-iron skillet over medium heat.
- Fry patties for 3–4 minutes per side until crispy and golden.
- Avoid pressing down on them—they’ll crisp better if left undisturbed.
🔥 Quick Tips:
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed.
- Let patties rest for 5 minutes after frying to firm up and develop full flavor.
Don’t miss our View More Recent Posts to explore more protein-packed, quick dinner ideas like this one.
Best Tips to Keep Salmon Patties from Falling Apart
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Forming Patties
It happens to the best of us—you mix up your ingredients, shape perfect little patties, and then… they disintegrate in the pan. If your easy salmon patties recipe keeps falling apart, here’s what you might be doing wrong:
❌ Mistake #1: Too Much Moisture
If the salmon (especially canned) isn’t drained well, the extra liquid will make it difficult for the patties to bind.
Fix: Press salmon with a paper towel after draining to remove excess moisture.
❌ Mistake #2: Not Enough Binder
The job of eggs and breadcrumbs (or flour) is to hold everything together. Without enough binder, your patties crumble fast.
Fix: Add one egg per 14–15 oz of salmon and ½ cup of breadcrumbs or a substitute like almond flour or crushed oats.
❌ Mistake #3: Overmixing the Mixture
Overmixing can break down the ingredients too much, creating a mushy, weak base that doesn’t hold its shape.
Fix: Mix until just combined and don’t overwork the salmon.
❌ Mistake #4: Skipping the Chill
If the mixture is too soft or warm, it won’t hold together in the pan.
Fix: Refrigerate the formed patties for 15–20 minutes before cooking to firm them up.
What Makes Salmon Patties Stick Together Better
When done right, your patties should hold up beautifully during cooking and serving. Here are a few key pointers to improve structural integrity:
| Tactic | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Use an egg + dry base | Egg binds while breadcrumbs absorb moisture |
| Chill the mixture | Firms up fats and proteins |
| Don’t overcrowd the pan | Keeps heat even, so patties stay intact |
| Flip only once | Allows crust to form, holding shape |
| Let rest after cooking | Firms up texture and locks in shape |
If you’re exploring gluten-free or low-carb, keep in mind that flour instead of breadcrumbs for patties is a totally legit move—just monitor moisture levels closely.
Check out more tasty creations on Recipes by Amelia for smart meal ideas that never fall apart on your plate—or your schedule.
Ingredient Substitutes & Variations
What to Mix with Canned Salmon for Flavorful Patties
The beauty of canned salmon is its convenience—but it’s what you mix in that makes these patties unforgettable. Whether you like it herby, spicy, tangy, or creamy, there’s plenty of room to get creative.
Flavor-Boosting Add-Ins
| Add-In | Flavor Impact |
|---|---|
| Dijon mustard | Zesty kick and slight tang |
| Chopped parsley | Freshness and mild bitterness |
| Lemon zest/juice | Brightens up the flavor |
| Green onions | Mild onion flavor with a crunch |
| Hot sauce | Adds heat and depth |
| Old Bay seasoning | Classic seafood blend for bold taste |
| Dill or basil | Delicate, fresh herbal notes |
These additions bring out the natural richness of the salmon without overpowering it. Mix and match to suit your palate or your pantry.
Want more creative combos? Check out Cookie Butter Protein Powder for a recipe that proves flavor is where you make it.
What Can You Use Instead of Breadcrumbs for Binding
If you’re out of breadcrumbs, don’t sweat it. This recipe is highly adaptable and works great with all sorts of breadcrumb alternatives for salmon patties—including gluten-free and keto-friendly options.
Top Substitutes
| Alternative | Best For |
|---|---|
| Almond flour | Low-carb, slightly nutty flavor |
| Crushed crackers | Similar texture to breadcrumbs |
| Cooked quinoa | Protein boost and great moisture |
| Oat flour or rolled oats | Adds texture and keeps patties firm |
| Chia seeds (soaked) | Excellent binder with added fiber |
| Mashed sweet potato | Adds moisture and sweetness |
💡 Pro Tip: Start with ¼ cup of your chosen binder and add more only if needed—overdoing it can make the patties too dense.
Using flour instead of breadcrumbs is also a great move. All-purpose, chickpea, or coconut flour can step in when breadcrumbs are nowhere in sight.
So whether you’re aiming for gluten-free, low-carb, or just making do with what’s in your pantry, this easy salmon patties recipe has options that work for everyone.
Cooking Methods: Skillet, Air Fryer, or Baked
How to Pan-Fry for Crispy Edges
Pan-frying is the classic and arguably most flavorful method for cooking salmon patties. It’s quick, delivers a golden, crispy crust, and doesn’t require special equipment.
Steps for Perfect Pan-Fried Salmon Cakes
- Heat 1–2 tablespoons of olive oil or avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add patties carefully—don’t overcrowd the pan.
- Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove and let rest on a paper towel-lined plate for 2 minutes before serving.
🔥 Pro Tip: Use a cast-iron skillet if possible—it gives the crispiest sear!
This method is perfect when you’re after that restaurant-style texture with minimal cleanup.
How to Make Air Fryer Salmon Patties Healthy & Fast
For a lighter version with just as much crunch, the air fryer has your back. It’s one of the healthiest ways to cook salmon patties—no frying, less oil, and less mess.
Steps for Air Fryer Salmon Patties
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Spray patties lightly with olive oil spray.
- Place patties in a single layer—don’t overlap.
- Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
✨ They’ll come out crisp on the outside, tender on the inside—without all the grease.
If you’re new to air frying, don’t miss our Air Fry Salmon Bites—a super-fast, flavor-packed recipe even picky eaters will love.
How to Bake Salmon Patties for a Set-It-and-Forget-It Option
Baking is great when you want to cook multiple patties at once—perfect for meal prep or hosting a crowd.
Steps for Oven-Baked Salmon Cakes
- Preheat oven to 400°F (204°C).
- Place patties on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Lightly brush or spray with oil for browning.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crisping.
Bonus: You can bake these while prepping a salad or side dish—no standing over the stove.
Each cooking method works beautifully depending on your mood, dietary needs, and available time. No matter how you cook them, these easy salmon patties come out golden, flavorful, and firm.
What to Serve with Salmon Patties
Easy Side Dishes That Complement Salmon Cakes
When it comes to sides, salmon patties are incredibly versatile. You can go classic with comfort food sides or lean healthy with greens and grains. Here are some go-to combos that pair beautifully with this recipe:
🥗 Salad & Greens
| Side Option | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Mixed green salad | Light and refreshing to balance flavors |
| Coleslaw | Creamy crunch adds contrast |
| Cucumber-dill salad | Cool and herby to match seafood |
| Roasted asparagus | Adds texture and earthy notes |
🥔 Hearty & Starchy
| Side Option | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Mashed potatoes | Classic, rich, and filling |
| Sweet potato fries | Adds sweetness and crunch |
| Corn on the cob | Buttery and nostalgic |
| Garlic rice or quinoa | Light grains for a healthier base |
🥖 Bread Options
| Bread Choice | Best For |
|---|---|
| Dinner rolls | Sops up sauce, adds comfort |
| Brioche buns | Turn patties into salmon burgers |
| Cornbread | Southern-style pairing |
These side dishes turn your easy salmon patties recipe into a full, satisfying meal that fits any occasion—from weeknight dinners to Sunday brunches.
Sauces, Dips, and Fresh Garnishes
What takes a good salmon patty to the next level? The sauce. Whether tangy, creamy, or spicy, the right dip adds major flavor impact.
🍋 Top Sauces for Salmon Patties
| Sauce | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|
| Tartar sauce | Tangy and creamy, classic pick |
| Lemon aioli | Bright with a garlicky finish |
| Greek yogurt dip | Light and refreshing |
| Spicy sriracha mayo | Adds heat and richness |
| Avocado crema | Smooth, cool, and flavorful |
🌿 Fresh Garnishes
- Chopped parsley
- Sliced green onions
- Lemon wedges
- Cracked pepper
Garnishing your patties not only boosts flavor but also makes your plate look professionally styled—perfect for dinner guests or Instagram.
Don’t miss our Beef Short Ribs Oven Baked Recipe if you’re in the mood for another cozy, shareable dish.
Storing, Freezing & Reheating Instructions
How to Store Salmon Patties the Right Way
Once cooked, your salmon patties will keep well in the fridge, but storage technique matters if you want to maintain flavor and texture.
🧊 Refrigerating Leftovers
- Let patties cool completely before storing. Putting hot patties in the fridge creates steam and sogginess.
- Store in an airtight container, layering with parchment or wax paper to prevent sticking.
- Use within 3–4 days for best flavor and freshness.
If you love make-ahead meals, these are a great candidate for batch cooking.
Freezing Instructions for Long-Term Storage
Want to freeze them? Great choice! This easy salmon patties recipe freezes beautifully—cooked or uncooked.
❄️ How to Freeze Cooked Salmon Patties
- Let patties cool completely.
- Wrap individually in plastic wrap or parchment paper.
- Place in a resealable freezer bag or airtight container.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
🥶 How to Freeze Uncooked Patties
- Follow the same method as above, but freeze the patties before cooking.
- When ready to use, thaw overnight in the fridge, then cook as usual.
Freezing uncooked patties gives you that freshly cooked taste without all the prep work.
Reheating Without Drying Out
To bring your patties back to life, skip the microwave if you can—it can dry them out fast.
🔁 Best Reheating Methods
| Method | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Skillet | Reheat in a non-stick pan with a touch of oil over medium heat for 3–4 minutes per side. |
| Oven | Bake at 350°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping once. |
| Air fryer | Air fry at 350°F for 6–8 minutes for a crispy texture. |
Avoid the microwave unless you’re in a rush—if you must, reheat at 50% power for 1–2 minutes and check frequently.
With the right storage and reheating, you can enjoy your salmon patties anytime—crispy, fresh, and just as delicious.
Troubleshooting & Frequently Asked Questions
What are the ingredients in salmon patties?
The classic salmon patty includes:
– Canned or cooked salmon (flaked)
– Egg (as a binder)
– Breadcrumbs or flour (for structure)
– Onion or green onion
– Garlic powder or minced garlic
– Salt, pepper, and optional herbs like parsley Some recipes also call for lemon juice, mustard, or hot sauce for added flavor. It’s a flexible recipe that allows for tons of tasty customizations.
How do you keep salmon patties from falling apart?
Salmon patties fall apart mainly due to too much moisture or not enough binder. Here’s how to prevent it:
Thoroughly drain canned salmon.
Use at least one egg per 14–15 oz salmon.
Add enough breadcrumbs or a dry alternative like oat flour or almond meal.
Chill the mixture before cooking.
Flip patties gently and only once during cooking. These steps will ensure your patties stay firm and don’t crumble.
What to mix canned salmon with?
Canned salmon pairs well with:
– Eggs and breadcrumbs/flour for structure
– Onions or scallions for sharpness
– Garlic powder or fresh herbs for flavor
– Dijon mustard or lemon juice for brightness
– Hot sauce or chili flakes for heat You can also toss in mashed sweet potato, cooked quinoa, or even leftover veggies for extra nutrition and texture.
What can you use instead of breadcrumbs for salmon patties?
If you’re out of breadcrumbs or need a gluten-free option, try:
Crushed crackers or cereal
Almond flour or coconut flour
Cooked quinoa
Rolled oats or oat flour
Mashed sweet potato
Chia seeds (soaked) Each of these options provides structure and holds your patties together while enhancing taste and texture.
What makes salmon patties stick together?
Binders like eggs and dry fillers such as breadcrumbs, flour, or oats are essential. These ingredients absorb moisture and act as glue when cooked. Also, chilling the patties before cooking helps them firm up and stay intact during frying or baking.
Can I use flour instead of breadcrumbs for patties?
Yes, you can absolutely use flour instead of breadcrumbs. All-purpose flour, chickpea flour, or even almond flour will work as a binding agent. Just make sure to add gradually until you reach a firm, moldable consistency. Start with ¼ cup and adjust as needed.
Conclusion: The Best Easy Salmon Patties Recipe You’ll Ever Make
There’s a reason this easy salmon patties recipe is a go-to for home cooks. It’s fast, filling, budget-friendly, and packed with protein. Whether you’re using pantry staples, trying out gluten-free swaps, or air-frying your way to crisp perfection, this recipe adapts to you.
Serve it with fresh salad, rice, or sweet potato fries—and don’t forget a tangy sauce to top it off. The best part? You can make them ahead, freeze them, and reheat them whenever that salmon craving strikes.
Check out more tasty creations on Recipes by Amelia to keep your weekly meal planning stress-free and flavorful.
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Easy Salmon Patties Recipe: A Delicious & Simple Homemade Favorite
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (4–6 patties depending on size) 1x
Description
Quick, crispy, and delicious, this easy salmon patties recipe is made with canned salmon, pantry staples, and a handful of fresh ingredients. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s the perfect family-friendly dinner packed with protein and flavor!
Ingredients
1 can (14–15 oz) salmon, drained and flaked
1 large egg
½ cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour, oat flour, or crushed crackers)
¼ cup finely chopped onion
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional)
1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
1–2 tbsp olive oil (for pan-frying)
Instructions
Drain the canned salmon and flake it into a medium-sized bowl using a fork.
Add the egg, breadcrumbs (or alternative), chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and any optional ingredients.
Gently mix everything together until combined—do not overmix.
Divide the mixture and shape into 4–6 round patties, about ½-inch thick.
(Optional) Chill patties in the fridge for 15–20 minutes to help them firm up.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Pan-fry each patty for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden and crispy.
Remove from heat and let rest on a paper towel for 2 minutes before serving.
Notes
Breadcrumb Alternatives: Use almond flour, oat flour, cooked quinoa, or mashed sweet potato if preferred.
Storage Tips: Store cooked patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat in skillet, oven, or air fryer for best texture—avoid microwave for optimal crispness.
Serving Ideas: Great with coleslaw, green salad, sweet potato fries, or lemon dill sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Seafood
- Method: Pan-Fried (also adaptable to Air Fryer or Oven)
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: easy salmon patties recipe, canned salmon patties, salmon cakes, quick seafood dinner, flour instead of breadcrumbs, healthy salmon patties