Name: Easy Salmon Patties Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (14-15 ounce) can salmon, well drained; 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided; 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced (about 1 cup); 1/2 red bell pepper, seeded and diced; 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs; 1 large egg, lightly beaten; 2 tablespoons mayonnaise; 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon garlic salt (or substitute with 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt and 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder); 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1/4 cup parsley, finely minced

Jump to Recipe

Salmon patties are a simple, quick, and delicious way to enjoy the rich flavors of salmon without much effort. This Easy Salmon Patties Recipe makes crispy, golden patties that are perfectly seasoned and packed with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a hearty weeknight dinner or a quick snack, these salmon patties are a versatile dish that can be served in numerous ways. They’re incredibly easy to make with pantry staples and fresh ingredients, making them an ideal choice for busy days.

Made with canned salmon, these patties are an affordable and convenient option that doesn’t compromise on taste. The addition of vegetables like onion and bell pepper, along with seasonings such as Worcestershire sauce and garlic salt, gives these patties a savory, flavorful kick. The result is a dish that’s crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and absolutely irresistible. Plus, they can be enjoyed as a meal on their own, served on a bun, or added to salads for an extra protein boost.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Easy Salmon Patties Recipe is packed with flavor while being incredibly easy to make. Using canned salmon makes it a cost-effective meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or as a meal prep option. The crispy exterior and moist, flavorful interior make these patties a satisfying option for anyone who loves seafood. The ingredients are simple, yet the result is a dish that is full of depth and savory goodness. Whether you’re a salmon lover or new to this type of dish, these patties are sure to please your taste buds. Plus, they’re customizable – you can adjust the seasoning and even add extra vegetables or herbs for a twist.

Ingredients

For the Salmon Patties:

Canned salmon (14-15 ounce, well drained)
Olive oil
Unsalted butter
Yellow onion, finely diced
Red bell pepper, seeded and diced
Panko bread crumbs
Large egg, lightly beaten
Mayonnaise
Worcestershire sauce
Garlic salt (or fine sea salt and garlic powder)
Freshly ground black pepper
Parsley, finely minced

Variations

There are several ways to make this recipe your own:

Spicy Salmon Patties: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes to give your salmon patties a bit of heat.
Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs such as dill, chives, or thyme to change the flavor profile.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Vegetable Additions: Add some finely chopped spinach, zucchini, or grated carrots to the mixture for extra vegetables.
Salmon Alternatives: While this recipe calls for canned salmon, you can substitute canned tuna or fresh cooked salmon if you prefer.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the vegetables

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and red bell pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.

Step 2: Mix the salmon patty ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the canned salmon, cooked onion and bell pepper, panko bread crumbs, beaten egg, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, garlic salt, pepper, and minced parsley. Use a fork to mix everything together until well combined. If the mixture feels too wet, add a little more panko bread crumbs until it holds together.

Step 3: Form the patties

With your hands, form the salmon mixture into patties, about 3-4 inches in diameter. You should be able to make around 6-8 patties, depending on the size.

Step 4: Cook the patties

In the same skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Once hot, add the salmon patties to the skillet. Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Fry the patties for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Carefully flip the patties to cook the other side.

Step 5: Drain and serve

Once cooked, remove the patties from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve the salmon patties hot with your favorite dipping sauce, on a bed of greens, or in a sandwich bun.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Patty consistency: If the salmon mixture feels too crumbly and doesn’t hold together well, add a bit more mayonnaise or egg to bind the ingredients.
Cooking temperature: Make sure the skillet is hot enough before adding the patties. If it’s not hot enough, the patties may stick to the pan or not form a crispy crust.
Batch cooking: If you’re making a large batch, cook the patties in batches to ensure they cook evenly and don’t overcrowd the pan, which can cause them to become soggy.
Serving options: Serve these patties with a tangy lemon wedge, tartar sauce, or a simple aioli to enhance their flavor.

How to Serve

These Easy Salmon Patties can be served in a variety of ways:

With a Salad: Serve the patties on a bed of leafy greens with a light vinaigrette for a fresh and healthy meal.
In a Sandwich: Place the patties on a bun with some lettuce, tomato, and your favorite sauce for a delicious salmon burger.
With Dipping Sauce: Pair the patties with a side of tartar sauce, lemon wedges, or a homemade aioli for extra flavor.
As a Side Dish: These patties also make a great side dish to accompany other seafood or grilled meats.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover salmon patties can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat them gently in a skillet or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to maintain their crispiness.

Freezing

You can freeze the salmon patties before or after cooking. To freeze uncooked patties, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they don’t touch, and freeze them for about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and store them for up to 3 months. To reheat, cook them directly from frozen in a skillet for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and heated through.

Reheating

To reheat cooked salmon patties, simply heat them in a skillet over medium heat with a little bit of oil, or in the oven for a crisp texture. If reheating in the microwave, cover them with a damp paper towel to avoid drying them out.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned salmon?

Yes, you can use fresh salmon. Cook and flake it before mixing it into the patty mixture, ensuring it’s well-seasoned.

2. Can I use a different type of bread crumb?

Yes, you can use regular bread crumbs, crushed crackers, or even cooked quinoa as a substitute for panko breadcrumbs.

3. How can I make the salmon patties spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the patty mixture for some heat.

4. Can I make these patties ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the patties ahead of time and refrigerate them for a few hours before cooking.

5. Can I use other vegetables in the patties?

Absolutely! You can add grated carrots, celery, or even spinach to the mixture for added flavor and texture.

6. How do I keep the patties from falling apart while cooking?

Make sure the mixture is well combined and holds together. If necessary, add a little more breadcrumbs to help bind the ingredients together.

7. Can I cook these salmon patties in the oven instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake the patties at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.

8. Can I use a different type of pepper?

Yes, you can use yellow or green bell pepper instead of red bell pepper based on your preference.

9. Can I make the patties larger or smaller?

Yes, you can adjust the size of the patties. Just be sure to cook them long enough for the inside to be fully cooked if they are larger.

10. What dipping sauces go well with salmon patties?

Tartar sauce, lemon wedges, aioli, or even a sweet chili sauce make excellent accompaniments to salmon patties.

Conclusion

These Easy Salmon Patties are a quick, delicious, and versatile dish that you can enjoy for lunch, dinner, or as a snack. The crispy, golden exterior and tender, flavorful inside make these patties a favorite with everyone. With simple ingredients and minimal preparation, they’re perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something hearty yet light. Customize them to suit your taste, and enjoy these savory salmon patties as part of a meal or as a delightful snack.