There’s something undeniably delightful about the crispy, golden exterior of salmon patties that crackles as you take that first bite. Imagine the savory aroma wafting through your kitchen, mingling with the tantalizing scents of herbs and spices, a prelude to the flavor explosion that awaits you. Salmon patties are not just a dish; they are an experience, bringing back memories of family gatherings where laughter echoed and plates were wiped clean within minutes.

These little gems of joy are perfect for any occasion—weeknight dinners, brunch with friends, or even as a delightful snack while binge-watching your favorite series. The anticipation builds as you prepare them, the promise of tender salmon blended with spices dancing on your palate. Trust me when I say that once you try making these salmon patties at home, store-bought versions will never cut it again.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These salmon patties are simple to whip up, making weeknight cooking a breeze.
- Packed with flavor and texture, they’re sure to please even picky eaters.
- The bright colors and crispy edges make them visually appealing on any plate.
- Versatile enough to serve in sandwiches, salads, or on their own!
I still remember the first time I made salmon patties; my kids gobbled them up faster than I could set the table.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Canned Salmon: Opt for wild-caught salmon for better flavor and sustainability; it makes all the difference in taste.
Breadcrumbs: Use plain breadcrumbs for binding; Panko adds extra crunch if you’re feeling adventurous.
Eggs: Two large eggs help bind everything together nicely; ensure they’re at room temperature for best results.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley or dill elevate the flavor profile; fresh herbs provide brightness that dried ones can’t match.
Onion: Finely chopped onion adds sweetness and moisture; sautéing it beforehand enhances its natural sugars.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all flavors; don’t be shy—season generously!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make salmon patties
Preparation Stage: Start by gathering all your ingredients together. Drain the canned salmon thoroughly and flake it into a mixing bowl using a fork. You’ll want to remove any bones if you’re squeamish about them.
Sautéing Onions: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and cook until they become translucent and fragrant—about 3-4 minutes should do it. This step brings out their sweetness.
Mixing Ingredients: In your mixing bowl with flaked salmon, add sautéed onions, breadcrumbs, eggs, chopped herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until well combined but don’t overwork it; we want those patties fluffy!
Forming Patties: Use your hands to shape the mixture into small patties about 3 inches wide. Place them on a plate lined with parchment paper so they don’t stick together while you finish forming all of them.
Cooking Time!: Heat another tablespoon of olive oil in your skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot (a drop of water should sizzle), carefully place the patties in the pan without overcrowding. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp.
Serving Suggestions: After cooking, transfer your beautiful salmon patties onto a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve warm with tartar sauce or a squeeze of lemon for added zing.
Enjoy these delightful bites straight away or cool them down for later—they also make excellent leftovers!
Remember that cooking is about having fun—don’t stress over perfection! Cooking should always be an adventure full of delicious surprises waiting at every turn. So why not gather some loved ones around this tasty recipe? Happy cooking!
You Must Know
- Salmon patties are not only delicious but also a fantastic way to use leftover salmon.
- The crispy exterior and tender inside create a perfect bite, making them great for any meal.
- Plus, they’re easy to customize with your favorite herbs and spices.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by mixing the ingredients for the patties first, then shape them before heating the pan. This ensures an even cook and prevents any last-minute chaos while cooking.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in canned tuna or add fresh herbs like dill or parsley for extra flavor. A splash of hot sauce can elevate the taste if you enjoy a little kick!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover salmon patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them on a skillet for that fresh, crispy finish.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When mixing the patty ingredients, don’t overwork the mixture; this keeps them tender.
- Use fresh salmon whenever possible for maximum flavor.
- If they’re falling apart, try adding breadcrumbs or an egg to bind better.
Creating my first batch of salmon patties was a delightful disaster; I forgot to check my spice rack! Friends loved them nonetheless, claiming they had a “unique” flavor profile—who knew missing cayenne could be a highlight?
FAQ
Can I freeze salmon patties?
Yes, freeze uncooked patties on a baking sheet and transfer them to a bag once firm.
What can I serve with salmon patties?
Pair them with tartar sauce, a fresh salad, or creamy coleslaw for balance.
How do I know when salmon patties are done?
They should be golden brown on both sides and reach an internal temperature of 145°F.
Salmon Patties
Salmon patties are a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines tender salmon with crispy edges, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed for a weeknight dinner, brunch, or as a snack while binge-watching your favorite series, these patties are simple to prepare and sure to please everyone at the table.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Seafood
Ingredients
- 1 (14.75 oz) can wild-caught salmon, drained and flaked
- 1 cup plain breadcrumbs (or Panko for extra crunch)
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- ¼ cup fresh parsley or dill, chopped
- ½ medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
Instructions
- Drain the canned salmon and flake it into a mixing bowl using a fork.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
- In the mixing bowl with salmon, add sautéed onions, breadcrumbs, eggs, herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
- Shape the mixture into small patties about 3 inches wide and place them on parchment paper.
- Heat another tablespoon of olive oil in the skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Transfer cooked patties to paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve warm with tartar sauce or lemon.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 patty (75g)
- Calories: 204
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 458mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: For extra flavor, consider adding spices like cayenne pepper or garlic powder. You can substitute canned tuna if desired. Leftover cooked patties can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.







