Salmon patties are a timeless comfort food that combine simplicity, flavor, and nutrition in every bite. Whether made with canned or fresh salmon, these savory cakes are crisp on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with satisfying flavor. They’re a popular choice for weeknight dinners, easy lunches, or make-ahead meals, offering a practical way to enjoy the health benefits of salmon without much fuss in the kitchen.
What makes salmon patties so appealing is their versatility. A typical patty starts with flaked salmon mixed with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers, egg to bind, and a few flavorful additions like onion, parsley, lemon juice, and seasonings. Some variations include mustard, dill, green onions, or a touch of hot sauce to bring an extra kick. Once shaped into patties, they’re quickly pan-fried until golden brown, creating a crispy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the tender, flaky interior.
These patties are a fantastic way to make the most of pantry staples and leftover salmon. They can be enjoyed on their own or turned into a full meal with simple sides. A light green salad, steamed vegetables, or mashed potatoes make excellent pairings, while tartar sauce, lemon wedges, or a creamy dill dip can elevate the flavor even further. You can also tuck a patty into a bun with lettuce and tomato for a satisfying salmon burger.
Salmon patties are also a nutritious choice, especially when using wild-caught salmon. They’re rich in omega-3 fatty acids, high in protein, and naturally low in carbohydrates, making them suitable for various dietary needs. They freeze well too, which means you can make a large batch and reheat them for a quick meal anytime. These Salmon Patties are an easy and delicious way to enjoy fresh salmon with a crispy outer layer and tender inside.
Ingredients
- 1 can salmon drained and flaked
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs you can use Panko for extra crispiness
- 1 large egg beaten
- 1/4 cup onion finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the salmon, bread crumbs, egg, onion, mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into patties, about 1/2 inch thick.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry patties until both sides are golden brown, about 3-5 minutes per side.
- Drain patties on paper towels before serving.
- Serve warm with your choice of sides or dipping sauces.
These salmon patties are amazing! My kids loved them, and they’re so easy to make. Definitely a keeper!
I tried this recipe but used tuna instead of salmon. It turned out okay, but not as good as I’d hoped.
I’m so glad your kids liked them! These patties are an easy way to get some fish into their diet. My family loves them too!
Easy to make but I just made a mess in the kitchen. 😅
Haha, I feel you! Cooking can get messy, but those salmon patties are worth it! 😋
Salmon is not my fav, but these were ok… I guess. Not sure I would make them again.
Just okay, nothing special. I feel like I could have just made a sandwich instead.
I was skeptical about canned salmon patties, but wow. Super easy and the onion flavor is perfect. I served with tartar sauce and it was a hit.
I don’t know about using canned salmon… it just feels weird. Maybe with fresh fish?
Great recipe! So quick. Can use any fish, right? I used tuna and it turned out nice!
I used panko like suggested and they were crispy for sure. Only thing is mine felt a little salty, so I might cut the salt in half next time. Still tasty though.
Wasn’t that impressed… they kinda fell apart when I tried flipping them. Maybe I did something wrong?
Good flavor, but mine got a little soft in the middle. Next time I’ll cook a touch longer and maybe chill the patties before frying.
It was ok, but mine fell apart in the pan. What did I do wrong?
Maybe you didn’t use enough bread crumbs or egg? That should help them hold together better.
I always have issues too! Just make sure to not flip them too early. They need to set first.
These salmon patties came out way better than I expected. The lemon and mayo combo is perfect, and the outside got actually golden, not just “brown-ish”. Will definitely make again.
Love hearing that! Golden on the outside is the best part 😄 Lemon + mayo really does make them pop—glad you’ll be making them again!
These salmon patties are my go-to meal! So easy and tastes awesome!
I made these for a party and they disappeared instantly! Everyone loved them! 🍣
The recipe says medium heat… I maybe went too high because mine browned fast but weren’t fully cooked in the middle. Still edible, just a learning moment.
That sounds like exactly what happens when the pan runs a bit too hot—golden outside, still soft inside. Next time try lowering to closer to medium-low and give them a few extra minutes per side (or cover briefly).
Happened to me too 😅 I think it’s the bread crumbs—mine toasted fast. Also I accidentally used a lot more lemon juice and it was… kinda tangy. Still tasty though!
Yum! Salmon is my fav. Can’t wait to try these! I wonder if I could add some cheese? Anyone tried it?
I think cheese would ruin the flavor of the salmon! It’s already perfect without it. Just keep it simple!
Cheese? I never thought of that! Sounds interesting, but I’m not sure how it would taste with salmon. Might be too rich?
I added some dill and garlic powder (sorry, not strict), and it bumped the flavor up a lot. Classic though—would make again.
I mean… dill and garlic powder are nice, but I feel like it changes it too much? I followed the recipe and it was already tasty. Next time try adding a little more lemon instead maybe.
Love hearing that! Dill + garlic powder is such a good combo with salmon. Not “strict,” but honestly classic flavor tweaking—glad it worked for you!
I was really skeptical about canned salmon, but these turned out great! Will make again!
Salmon is fish, right? Never knew how to cook it before this. 👍
It says to use Panko but I used regular bread crumbs. Was still good but not crispy.
Glad it still turned out good! Regular bread crumbs are fine too, just not as crunchy. 👍
I dunno, I think Panko is a must! If you want that crispy texture, you gotta follow the recipe. 🤔