Easy 6-Ingredient Salmon Patties: Quick, Delicious, & Family-Friendly
These easy salmon patties, made with just a handful of core ingredients, are a fantastic light meal that both kids and adults absolutely adore. They’re quick to prepare, incredibly flavorful, and a perfect addition to your weekly menu, whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner or a delightful lunch.
Salmon patties hold a special place in my heart, deeply rooted in my childhood memories. Growing up in a large family, they were a regular feature on our dinner table. They were not only incredibly affordable, making them a budget-friendly option for feeding many hungry mouths, but also universally loved by everyone. Salmon was a household favorite, and these patties were a creative and delicious way to enjoy it.
I can’t recall the exact recipe my mother used, if she followed a strict one at all, but I imagine it was quite similar to this straightforward recipe I now proudly make for my own family. My version utilizes readily available ingredients: canned salmon, crispy panko breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion for a subtle sweetness, eggs to bind everything together, bright lemon zest, and a generous sprinkle of fresh herbs like dill and basil. The beauty of these salmon patties lies in their simplicity – they are remarkably easy to prepare, yet yield a truly delicious result! I love serving them alongside a creamy sour cream herb dipping sauce, fresh lemon wedges for a zesty kick, and a comforting side of rice to complete the meal. This recipe proves that you don’t need a complex list of ingredients or hours in the kitchen to create a meal that feels both wholesome and satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Salmon Patty Recipe
There are countless reasons to make these salmon patties a staple in your kitchen. Here’s why they’re such a hit:
- Effortlessly Easy: With only six core ingredients (plus pantry staples like oil and salt) and minimal prep, these patties come together in a flash.
- Quick Cook Time: From start to finish, you can have a delicious meal on the table in about 20 minutes, making them ideal for busy weeknights.
- Budget-Friendly: Utilizing canned salmon, this recipe is a cost-effective way to enjoy the nutritional benefits of fish without breaking the bank.
- Family-Friendly Flavor: The mild flavor of salmon, enhanced by fresh herbs and lemon, appeals to a wide range of palates, even picky eaters!
- Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids from the salmon, these patties offer a wholesome source of protein.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them plain, with a dipping sauce, on a bun, or alongside your favorite sides.
What Kind of Salmon Should I Use for Salmon Patties?
Choosing the right salmon for your patties is key to their texture and flavor. Thankfully, you have three excellent options, each bringing its own advantages. The best choice ultimately depends on your personal preference, budget, and what you have on hand.
- Traditional Style Canned Salmon (with bones and skin):
Traditionally, salmon patties are made with bulk or “traditional style” canned salmon, which typically comes in larger 14-oz cans. This is what my mother always used, and it’s a classic for a reason. When you first open the can, you might notice edible skins and small, soft bones. While this might seem a little unusual, don’t be deterred! These elements are perfectly safe to eat and actually contribute significant nutritional value, including additional omega-3 fatty acids and calcium. The bones are very soft and easily mash into the mixture, often going unnoticed once cooked. If you prefer, you can easily pick out any larger bone pieces, but the smaller ones provide an excellent boost of nutrients without affecting the taste or texture.
- Boneless/Skinless Canned Salmon:
If the idea of skins and bones isn’t appealing, or you simply prefer a smoother texture, boneless and skinless canned salmon is a fantastic alternative. This variety usually comes in smaller 5-oz cans and has a appearance much like canned tuna. It’s incredibly convenient as it requires no extra preparation – just drain and flake. It offers a cleaner, milder salmon flavor and a more uniform texture, making it a popular choice for many home cooks.
- Leftover Cooked Salmon:
Don’t let perfectly good leftover salmon go to waste! Cooked salmon works wonderfully in patties, offering a fresh, robust flavor. If you ever have extra from a meal like my roasted lemon-herb salmon or grilled salmon fillets, simply flake it with a fork. You can store the flaked salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for a couple of days or in the freezer for up to a month until you’re ready to transform it into delicious patties. Using leftover salmon adds a gourmet touch and is an excellent way to reduce food waste.
Key Ingredients & Their Role
Each ingredient in these salmon patties plays a crucial role in creating their delightful flavor and texture:
- Canned Salmon: The star of the show, providing the rich, savory base and all those healthy omega-3s.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: Essential for binding the patties together and giving them that irresistible crispy exterior when fried. Panko provides a lighter, airier crunch compared to regular breadcrumbs.
- Onion: Finely chopped onion adds a subtle aromatic sweetness and moisture, enhancing the overall depth of flavor without overpowering the salmon.
- Eggs: Act as a vital binder, holding all the ingredients together and preventing the patties from falling apart during cooking.
- Lemon Zest: A touch of lemon zest brightens the entire dish, cutting through the richness of the salmon with a fresh, citrusy aroma and taste.
- Fresh Herbs (Dill, Basil, Parsley, Chives): Fresh herbs are non-negotiable for elevating the flavor. Dill is a classic pairing with salmon, offering a delicate, fresh note. Basil adds a sweet, peppery hint, while parsley and chives provide a milder, oniony freshness. A combination often yields the best results.
- Olive Oil (for frying): Used to achieve that perfect golden-brown crust and moist interior.
- Salt: Balances and enhances all the flavors.
Tips for Perfect Salmon Patties Every Time
While this recipe is simple, a few tips can ensure your salmon patties are absolutely perfect:
- Drain Your Salmon Well: Whether using canned or leftover, ensure the salmon is well-drained. Excess moisture can make the patties soggy and difficult to form. You can even press it lightly with paper towels.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough patties.
- Chop Onions Finely: Small, uniform pieces of onion will cook through evenly and integrate better into the patty mixture.
- Form Uniform Patties: Aim for patties of similar size and thickness (about ½ inch thick) so they cook evenly. A ¼ cup measure is a good guide for portioning.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry patties in batches to avoid lowering the oil temperature too much. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of frying, resulting in less crispy patties.
- Medium-High Heat is Key: Ensure your oil is hot enough (but not smoking) before adding the patties. This helps create a beautiful golden crust quickly.
- Adjust Herbs to Taste: Feel free to experiment with your favorite fresh herbs. If using dried herbs, remember to use about one-third of the amount of fresh herbs, as dried herbs are more potent (e.g., 2 teaspoons dried for 2 tablespoons fresh).
Serving Suggestions for Salmon Patties
These versatile salmon patties pair wonderfully with a variety of sides and sauces:
- Creamy Herb Dipping Sauce: My go-to is a simple sour cream (or Greek yogurt) sauce mixed with fresh dill, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. It’s bright and refreshing!
- Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the hot patties is always a winner, enhancing their flavor.
- Rice or Quinoa: A classic pairing, especially with white or brown rice, providing a comforting base.
- Fresh Salad: A light, crisp green salad with a vinaigrette dressing offers a refreshing contrast.
- Roasted Vegetables: Asparagus, broccoli, green beans, or sweet potatoes make excellent healthy sides.
- On a Bun (Salmon Burgers): Serve them on toasted buns with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite sauce for a delicious salmon burger.
- With a Poached Egg: For a delightful brunch or light dinner, top a patty with a perfectly poached egg.
- Different Sauces: Experiment with tartar sauce, remoulade, sriracha mayo, or even a simple dill aioli.
Make Ahead & Storage Tips
Salmon patties are fantastic for meal prepping and can be stored easily:
- Prepare Ahead: You can mix all the ingredients and form the patties up to 24 hours in advance. Place them on a plate lined with parchment paper, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until ready to cook.
- Refrigerating Cooked Patties: Store leftover cooked salmon patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing Cooked Patties: Allow cooked patties to cool completely. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to 1 month or even longer.
- Reheating: For best results, reheat cooked patties in a lightly greased skillet over medium heat until warmed through and crispy again, about 3-5 minutes per side. You can also reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or in an air fryer for 5-8 minutes at 375°F (190°C).
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Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil , plus more for frying
- ½ cup finely chopped onion
- 14-15 oz canned or leftover salmon , see Notes
- 2 tablespoons fresh herbs such as dill parsley, basil, chives or combination
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup bread crumbs (I prefer panko)
Sour cream herb sauce, for serving (optional):
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon fresh herbs
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Instructions
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Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 3 minutes. This step helps to mellow the onion flavor and integrate it smoothly into the patties.
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In a large bowl, combine the cooked onion, thoroughly drained salmon, fresh herbs, salt, bright lemon zest, beaten eggs, and crunchy bread crumbs. Mix gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the patties tough.
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Divide the mixture into approximately 1/4 cup portions. Using your hands, gently shape each portion into a flat patty, about 1/2 inch thick. Ensure they are uniform in size for even cooking.
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Add enough olive oil to your skillet to generously coat the bottom, then place it over medium-high heat. You want the oil to be hot enough to sizzle when a small drop of water is flicked in.
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Carefully place the patties in the hot skillet, being mindful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them in batches if necessary, cooking until they are beautifully golden brown and crispy on both sides, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes per side.
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Serve the hot and crispy patties immediately. For an extra layer of flavor, drizzle with the optional sour cream herb sauce and serve with fresh lemon wedges.
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To quickly make the optional sour cream herb sauce, simply whisk together all the sauce ingredients in a small bowl until smooth. Any leftover sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge.
Notes
- For the salmon, you have a few options: use one 14-oz can of traditional salmon (which includes edible skins and bones – feel free to pick out any large bone pieces if preferred, though smaller ones are fine for added calcium and omega-3s), or three 5-oz cans of boneless/skinless canned salmon for a smoother texture. Alternatively, you can use about 14-15 oz of leftover cooked salmon, simply flaked with a fork.
- Dill is my absolute favorite herb to pair with salmon, adding a distinct freshness. However, chives, basil, and parsley are also excellent choices. Often, I’ll use a combination of these herbs to create a more complex flavor profile. If you’re opting for dried herbs instead of fresh, remember to reduce the quantity to about 2 teaspoons, as dried herbs are more concentrated.
- Cooked salmon patties store well! You can keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze them for 1 month or more. To reheat, simply warm them in a lightly greased skillet over medium heat until they are heated through and the exterior is crisp again. This method helps maintain their texture.
Frequently Asked Questions About Salmon Patties
Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?
Absolutely! While canned salmon is convenient, fresh cooked salmon works beautifully. You’ll need about 14-15 ounces of cooked, flaked salmon. Make sure it’s cooled and well-flaked before mixing with the other ingredients. Baking or pan-searing fresh salmon first and then flaking it is a great way to use up leftovers or to get a slightly different flavor profile.
How do I prevent my salmon patties from falling apart?
The key to holding your patties together is ensuring the right balance of moisture and binders. Make sure your salmon is well-drained. The eggs and breadcrumbs are crucial binders; don’t skimp on them! Also, avoid over-mixing the mixture, as this can break down the proteins too much. Form the patties firmly but gently, and chill them for 15-30 minutes before frying if your mixture feels too soft. Finally, ensure the oil is hot enough before you place them in the skillet, and don’t flip them too soon.
Are salmon patties healthy?
Yes, salmon patties can be a very healthy meal! Salmon is an excellent source of lean protein, heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins like D and B12. When made with fresh herbs and cooked in a minimal amount of healthy oil (like olive oil), they offer a nutritious and balanced option. The addition of onions also provides beneficial antioxidants. The nutritional values are provided in the recipe card above, so you can easily see the breakdown per serving.
What’s the best way to get crispy salmon patties?
For truly crispy salmon patties, several factors are important. Firstly, ensure your oil is hot enough when you add the patties – medium-high heat is ideal. Don’t overcrowd the pan, as this lowers the oil temperature and can lead to steaming instead of frying. Use panko breadcrumbs, which are coarser and absorb less oil, resulting in a crispier texture. Finally, resist the urge to flip them constantly; let them cook undisturbed for 3-5 minutes per side to develop a beautiful golden-brown crust.
Can I bake salmon patties instead of frying?
Yes, you can absolutely bake salmon patties for a healthier, less hands-on option. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the formed patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through. While they might not be as crispy as pan-fried patties, they are still incredibly delicious and a great alternative!
I hope this expanded recipe and guide help you create the most delicious and easy salmon patties for your family. Enjoy this timeless classic!