Transform your weeknight dinners with these incredibly delicious and effortlessly prepared salmon patties. Ready in less than 20 minutes, these perfectly seasoned fish cakes are a true culinary delight, packed with flavor and healthy goodness!

Delicious & Easy Salmon Patties: Your New Go-To Weeknight Meal

When the dinner bell rings on a busy weeknight, simplicity and flavor are paramount. These homemade salmon patties, often called salmon cakes, are not only incredibly easy to prepare but also burst with an amazing depth of flavor. Crafted from basic pantry staples, they deliver a protein-packed, healthy meal that the whole family will adore. Serve them with a generous swirl of classic tartar sauce, and you’ll agree – these truly are the best salmon patties you’ll ever make!

Their versatility makes them a fantastic choice for any occasion. They pair beautifully with a variety of side dishes, from crisp, fresh salads to perfectly sautéed vegetables or comforting potatoes. Imagine them alongside a vibrant broccoli salad, tender green beans, or crispy baked potato slices for a complete and satisfying meal.

Why These Salmon Patties Are a Must-Try

This recipe consistently delivers outstanding results, making it a favorite in many households. Here’s why these salmon patties stand out:

• Perfectly Bound & Never Falling Apart: The secret to their sturdy yet tender texture lies in the ideal combination of egg, breadcrumbs, and mayonnaise. These binders ensure that your salmon cakes hold their shape beautifully during cooking, preventing any crumbling disasters.
• Achieve Golden Perfection: Cooking the patties over medium heat is crucial. This technique allows them to develop a gorgeously golden-brown crust without burning, ensuring they are cooked through to crispy perfection on the outside and tender on the inside.
• Unforgettable Flavor Profile: What truly sets these salmon patties apart is their expertly balanced seasoning. A blend of tangy Dijon mustard, bright lemon juice, aromatic garlic powder, finely grated onion, and fresh chopped parsley creates a symphony of flavors that enhances the natural richness of the salmon.
• The Ultimate Accompaniment: While delicious on their own, serving these salmon patties with a creamy homemade tartar sauce elevates them to an entirely new level. The zesty, tangy sauce complements the savory fish perfectly, making each bite an extraordinary experience.

Key Ingredients for Perfect Salmon Patties

Creating these delightful salmon patties requires a handful of common ingredients, many of which you likely already have in your pantry. Each component plays a vital role in building the flavor and structure of these fish cakes:

• Salmon (Cooked or Canned): The star of the show! Whether you opt for freshly cooked salmon or convenient canned salmon, it forms the delicious base. We’ll delve into the merits of both below.
• Egg: Acts as a crucial binder, holding all the ingredients together so your patties don’t fall apart during cooking.
• Onion (Grated): Finely grated onion contributes moisture and a subtle savory depth, enhancing the overall flavor without being overpowering.
• Breadcrumbs: Another essential binder that also helps absorb excess moisture, contributing to a good texture and a crispy exterior. Panko breadcrumbs can offer an extra crunch.
• Dijon Mustard: Adds a zesty, slightly tangy kick that perfectly complements the rich flavor of salmon.
• Mayonnaise: Provides moisture, richness, and helps bind the mixture, contributing to a tender interior.
• Parsley (Freshly Chopped): Fresh herbs, especially parsley, bring a vibrant, fresh note that brightens the entire dish.
• Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice is indispensable. It cuts through the richness of the salmon, adds brightness, and helps to counteract any “fishy” taste.
• Garlic Powder: Offers a foundational layer of aromatic flavor that enhances the savory profile of the patties.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring all the flavors into balance and highlight the natural taste of the salmon.

How To Make The Best Salmon Patties (Step-by-Step)

Making these salmon patties is a straightforward process, ideal for busy evenings. Follow these simple steps to culinary success:

1. Prepare the Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine your cooked salmon (flaked), one egg, Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, grated onion, breadcrumbs, fresh chopped parsley, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a fork to gently mix all the ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the patties tough.
2. Form the Patties: Using a ¼ cup measuring scoop, portion out the salmon mixture. Gently form each portion into an evenly sized patty, about ½ to ¾ inch thick. You should get approximately 8 patties from this recipe. Place them on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Pan-Fry to Golden Perfection: Heat 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering and hot, carefully place the salmon patties into the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook them in batches if necessary.
4. Cook Each Side: Allow the patties to cook undisturbed for about 3-4 minutes per side, until they turn a beautiful golden brown and become crispy. Use a wide, thin fish spatula to carefully lift and flip each patty to cook the other side. This ensures they maintain their shape. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until both sides are golden and crispy.
5. Drain Excess Oil: Transfer the cooked salmon patties to a plate lined with a paper towel to absorb any excess oil, ensuring they remain perfectly crisp.
6. Serve Immediately: Serve your hot and crispy salmon patties with a dollop of creamy tartar sauce and fresh lemon wedges for squeezing. Enjoy!

Salmon Patties FAQs: Your Questions Answered

Can You Use Canned Salmon for These Patties?

Absolutely! While fresh salmon often yields a slightly richer flavor and texture, canned salmon is a fantastic and convenient alternative, especially since this recipe relies on pantry staple ingredients. If using canned salmon, opt for boneless and skinless varieties for the best texture, and be sure to drain it well before mixing. Canned salmon makes these patties an incredibly accessible and quick meal, proving you don’t always need fresh ingredients to create something delicious and healthy.

Can You Make Salmon Patties Ahead Of Time?

Yes, these salmon patties are wonderfully amenable to meal prep! You have a couple of options for preparing them in advance:

• Prepare the Mixture: You can mix all the ingredients (except the oil for frying) a day or two ahead of time. Simply cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator.
• Form the Patties: For even quicker cooking later, you can form the patties a few hours before you plan to cook them. Place the formed patties on a plate lined with parchment paper, cover them, and refrigerate. This is an excellent strategy for an easy weeknight dinner; assemble them in advance and simply pan-fry for 10 minutes when you get home from work.

Cooked salmon patties also store well. Place cooled patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in the oven or a skillet until warmed through to restore some crispness.

Can You Freeze Salmon Patties?

Freezing salmon patties is an excellent way to extend their shelf life and have quick meals on hand. Here’s how to do it effectively:

• Uncooked Patties: After you form the patties but before frying them, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze for about 2-3 hours, or until they are firm. This prevents them from sticking together. Once firm, wrap each salmon patty individually in plastic wrap, then transfer them to a freezer-safe ziplock bag or airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To use, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and then proceed with the cooking instructions.
• Cooked Patties: If you have leftover cooked patties, allow them to cool completely. Wrap them individually and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 1-2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.

Do Salmon Patties Taste Fishy?

Many people worry about fishy flavors, but these salmon patties are designed to be delightfully mild and palatable. I typically use Atlantic salmon for these fish cakes, which is known for its delicate and less intense flavor compared to some other salmon varieties. Furthermore, the robust seasoning with fresh lemon juice and vibrant parsley works wonders to balance and brighten the salmon’s natural taste, significantly reducing any perceived “fishiness.” I’m confident that even those who are typically hesitant about eating fish will find these healthy salmon patties surprisingly delicious and enjoyable!

What to Serve with Salmon Patties: Perfect Pairings

Salmon patties are incredibly versatile and pair well with a wide array of side dishes. Here are some ideas to create a complete and satisfying meal:

• Classic Condiments: Always serve your salmon patties with fresh lemon wedges for a bright, zesty squeeze, and a generous side of creamy tartar sauce or a dollop of good quality mayonnaise. A sprinkle of fresh dill or chives adds a professional touch.
• Light & Fresh Sides:
  • Simple Cucumber Salad: A refreshing, crisp cucumber salad with a light vinaigrette provides a wonderful contrast to the richness of the patties.
  • Garden Salad: A mixed green salad with your favorite dressing is always a healthy and easy choice.
• Heartier Options:
  • Three-Bean Salad: A colorful and protein-rich salad that adds substance and different textures.
  • Sweet Potato Fries: For a touch of sweetness and satisfying crunch, homemade sweet potato fries are an excellent choice.
  • Classic Coleslaw: The creamy, tangy crunch of coleslaw is a timeless pairing with fish cakes.
  • Roasted or Mashed Potatoes: Simple roasted potatoes or fluffy mashed potatoes make a comforting and familiar accompaniment.
  • Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, or green beans lightly steamed and seasoned are quick and nutritious.

For even more inspiration, explore our collection of easy side dish recipes to find your perfect pairing!

Recipe Notes and Expert Tips for Success

Achieving perfectly crisp and flavorful salmon patties is easy with these helpful tips and tricks:

• Prioritize Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh salmon, vibrant herbs like parsley, and crisp aromatics such as onion. The quality of your ingredients directly impacts the depth and freshness of the final flavor.
• Pre-heat Your Pan Properly: Always ensure your skillet is pre-heated to medium heat before adding the patties. If the pan isn’t hot enough, the patties will absorb too much oil and become greasy. If it’s too hot, the outsides will burn before the inside has a chance to cook through.
• Invest in a Good Fish Spatula: A wide, thin fish spatula is your best friend when cooking delicate patties. It allows you to easily slide under the patties and flip them without them breaking apart, preserving their perfect shape.
• Be Patient Before Flipping: To prevent your salmon patties from falling apart, resist the urge to flip them too soon. Let them cook undisturbed on the first side until they are visibly golden brown and a solid crust has formed. Once you slide the fish spatula underneath, gently hold the top of the patty with two fingers as you carefully flip it over.
• Gluten-Free Alternative: Easily make this recipe gluten-free by substituting traditional breadcrumbs with your favorite gluten-free breadcrumbs. The binders will still work effectively.
• Avoid Overcooking: Salmon cooks relatively quickly. Cook the patties until they are golden brown and crispy on each side. Overcooking can lead to dry, less flavorful patties.
• Creative Seafood Substitutions: Don’t limit yourself to salmon! This versatile recipe base works wonderfully with other types of seafood. Consider using canned tuna, flaked cooked cod, or even lump crab meat to create delicious tuna patties, cod cakes, or gourmet crab cakes. Adjust seasonings as needed for different fish.
• Uniform Patty Size: Aim for consistently sized patties. This ensures they cook evenly and prevents some from being undercooked while others are overcooked.

More Easy Salmon Recipes to Love

If you’ve enjoyed the simplicity and deliciousness of these salmon patties, you’ll definitely want to explore these other fantastic salmon recipes:

• Blackened Salmon Tacos: A vibrant and spicy dish perfect for a flavorful weeknight.
• Smoked Salmon Crostini: An elegant appetizer that’s surprisingly easy to make.
• Salmon and Quinoa Kale Salad: A super healthy and satisfying meal, packed with nutrients.
• Honey Sriracha Salmon: A sweet and spicy salmon dish that’s incredibly addictive.

Rating: 5 from 6 votes

Salmon Patties Recipe

By:
Neli Howard

These delicious salmon patties come together quickly and easily and are perfect for easy weeknight dinners. Ready to serve in less than 20 minutes, these wonderfully seasoned fish cakes are a real treat!

Prep Time:
10 minutes

Cook Time:
8 minutes

Total Time:
18 minutes

Servings:
8 patties

Ingredients

• 1 lb cooked salmon, or 15 oz canned boneless salmon, cut in small chunks
• 1 egg
• 2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 2 Tablespoon mayo
• ½ cup grated onion
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 2 Tablespoon fresh chopped parsley
• 1 Tablespoon lemon juice, juice of half lemon
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1-2 Tablespoon olive oil
• Lemon wedges, for serving
• Tartar sauce, for serving

Instructions

1. Mix cooked salmon, egg, mustard, mayo, onion, breadcrumbs, parsley, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a large mixing bowl. Using a ¼ cup measuring cup, portion the salmon mixture and form them into 8 evenly sized patties.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add salmon patties to the skillet and cook them in batches for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Using a fish spatula carefully lift each patty and flip it over. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Transfer the cooked salmon patties to a plate lined with a paper towel.
3. Serve them with tartar sauce and lemon wedges for squeezing.

Notes

• Use fresh ingredients whenever possible. Fresh salmon, herbs, and aromatics have the best flavor.
• Cook the salmon patties in a pre-heated pan. It should be on medium-high heat. Too hot, and the outsides will burn, and the middle won’t be cooked through.
• Use a large fish spatula to easily turn the salmon patties without them falling apart.
• To prevent them from falling apart, cook them long enough on the first side until they are golden brown before flipping them over. After you slide a fish spatula under the patty, gently hold the top with two fingers while you flip them over.
• Make them gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs.
• Take care not to overcook the patties. They should be golden brown on each side.
• You can substitute with other seafood – for example, you can also use canned tuna or cod, or even lump crab meat to make crab cakes.

Nutrition Information (Estimated Per Serving)

Calories: 161 kcal | Carbohydrates: 6g | Protein: 13g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 53mg | Sodium: 411mg | Potassium: 323mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 137IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 26mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutrition Disclaimer: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary with ingredients, brands, and portion sizes. For accuracy, use your preferred nutrition calculator.