Name: The Best Salmon Patties Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 (6-ounce) cans salmon, drained and flaked (or 1 1/2 cups cooked fresh salmon); 1/2 cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers; 1/4 cup finely chopped onion; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; 2 large eggs; 2 tablespoons mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a savory and satisfying dinner that’s quick, easy, and absolutely unforgettable, this is it: The Best Salmon Patties Recipe. These patties come together with pantry staples and just a handful of fresh ingredients, making them a lifesaver for busy nights and a crowd-pleaser at family get-togethers. They’re golden, crisp on the outside, tender and flavorful inside, and utterly comforting. Whether you’re using canned or cooked fresh salmon, these beauties promise to upgrade your meal routine and introduce you to a new favorite way to enjoy this fish.

The Best Salmon Patties Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes The Best Salmon Patties Recipe so magical is how these humble, fuss-free ingredients transform into something so flavorful. Each item truly pulls its weight to create the perfect blend of flaky, juicy, and crispy textures, all unified by bright herbs and a savory punch. Here’s what you’ll need—and why you shouldn’t skip a single ingredient:

Salmon: The star! Use high-quality canned or leftover cooked salmon for best flavor and maximum tenderness.
Bread crumbs or crushed crackers: Adds essential texture, helping bind everything together and creating a fluffy yet sturdy patty.
Onion: Finely chopped for a sweet bite and aromatic depth—you’ll notice the flavor in every bite (no big raw onion chunks!).
Fresh parsley: Brightens up the mix with a fresh, herbal zing; don’t skip it if you want the patties to really pop.
Eggs: Act as the glue holding the patties together, while also adding moisture and richness.
Mayonnaise: Keeps the interior creamy and moist; it’s the secret to melt-in-your-mouth salmon patties!
Dijon mustard: Gives a hint of tang and mild heat for an irresistibly balanced flavor.
Lemon juice: Offers a bright, citrusy tang that lifts up the savoriness of the fish and cuts through any heaviness.
Garlic powder: A subtle background flavor that takes these patties from good to great.
Salt: Essential for seasoning—don’t leave it out or your patties may taste flat.
Black pepper: Just a little goes a long way, adding gentle heat and flavor complexity.
Olive oil (for frying): Not just for cooking—olive oil gives the outside of each patty that dreamy, golden crispiness.

How to Make The Best Salmon Patties Recipe

Step 1: Mix the Ingredients

Grab a large mixing bowl and toss in your flaked salmon, breadcrumbs or crushed crackers, finely chopped onion, fresh parsley, eggs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Don’t be shy about using your hands (clean hands work best here) to gently but thoroughly mix everything together. You want the mixture evenly moistened and sticking together, but if it feels a bit too loose, add an extra sprinkle of breadcrumbs until it easily forms a patty.

Step 2: Shape Your Patties

Next, divide the mixture into six roughly equal portions, then use your hands to gently press each one into a patty about 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick. Aim for patties that hold together but aren’t overworked—this is the secret to a tender, not tough, texture.

Step 3: Sizzle and Fry

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When it’s hot (a drop of water should sizzle when it hits the oil), carefully lay in your patties. Fry them for 3 to 4 minutes per side, resisting the urge to move them too soon. They’ll develop a deeply golden, crispy crust and stay beautifully moist within. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to blot away any excess oil.

Step 4: Serve Warm

Enjoy your handiwork right away, while the patties are gorgeously crisp and fragrant. They are just as fabulous with a squeeze of fresh lemon as they are with a dollop of tartar sauce or sour cream. The Best Salmon Patties Recipe shines freshest from the skillet!

How to Serve The Best Salmon Patties Recipe

Garnishes

A little garnish goes a long way here! Sprinkle over extra chopped fresh parsley or chives, add a lemon wedge on the side for an extra pop of brightness, or offer a classic swirl of creamy tartar sauce or dill-infused yogurt. These little touches highlight the flavors and make the patties feel extra special.

Side Dishes

These salmon patties pair up beautifully with just about anything. Try serving them atop a bed of crisp green salad, alongside roasted potatoes, or with buttery rice pilaf. They also marry well with classic Southern sides like coleslaw, sautéed green beans, or creamed corn. The Best Salmon Patties Recipe really is as versatile as it gets!

Creative Ways to Present

Feeling fancy? Tuck a salmon patty into a toasted brioche bun with pickles and lettuce for a savory fish burger. Or break them up and scatter them over a leafy salad bowl with boiled potatoes and green beans for a Niçoise-inspired twist. For a crowd, set them out as mini sliders at your next party—the possibilities are endlessly delicious!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers (which isn’t always guaranteed!), simply pop the cooled salmon patties into an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to three days, making them a fantastic option for meal prepping your lunch or dinner for later in the week.

Freezing

The Best Salmon Patties Recipe freezes like a dream. Once cooled, layer the patties between sheets of parchment paper and slip them into a freezer bag or airtight container. They’ll keep for up to three months—just thaw overnight in the refrigerator when you’re ready to enjoy them again.

Reheating

To bring them back to crispy perfection, reheat your salmon patties in a skillet over medium-low heat with a smidge of oil, or pop them into an air fryer for a few minutes. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the patties a bit soggy—the extra minute on the stovetop is more than worth it!

FAQs

Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?

Absolutely! Fresh cooked salmon is a wonderful option—just flake it well before mixing, and use the same amount as the canned version. It’s a great way to use up leftover salmon fillets, and the flavor is even more vibrant.

What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?

You can easily substitute crushed crackers (like saltines or Ritz) for the breadcrumbs. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free crackers or store-bought gluten-free breadcrumbs.

How do I keep the patties from falling apart?

The key is making sure the mixture isn’t too wet or too dry. Add more breadcrumbs if it feels loose, and always be gentle when flipping the patties in the skillet. Chilling the shaped patties for 10–15 minutes before frying can also help them hold together better.

Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Simply use your favorite dairy-free mayonnaise. The rest of the ingredients in The Best Salmon Patties Recipe are naturally dairy-free, making it an easy switch for those with allergies or dietary preferences.

Can I bake the patties instead of frying?

Of course! Arrange the patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet, brush lightly with olive oil, and bake at 425°F (220°C) for about 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through. They’ll be a bit less crispy than fried but still wonderfully delicious.

Final Thoughts

This is one of those recipes you’ll find yourself returning to again and again. Whether you grew up eating salmon patties or trying them for the first time, The Best Salmon Patties Recipe is foolproof comfort food at its finest. Give it a spot in your dinner rotation and watch these golden, savory patties quickly become a household favorite!

The Best Salmon Patties Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 18 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 6 patties 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

These salmon patties are a flavorful and crispy dish that can be made with canned or fresh salmon. Packed with herbs and seasonings, they are perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Salmon Patties:

2 (6-ounce) cans salmon, drained and flaked (or 1 1/2 cups cooked fresh salmon)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine salmon, breadcrumbs, onion, parsley, eggs, mayonnaise, mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Form Patties: Shape the mixture into 6 patties. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Cook Patties: Cook patties for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
Serve: Serve warm with desired accompaniments.