Easy Salmon Patties Recipe

Welcome to Sweet Emily, where we make baking simple for busy parents and beginners! Get ready to discover the magic of easy salmon patties, a delightful and healthy meal solution. These flaky, flavorful patties are incredibly simple to prepare, whether you use canned or leftover cooked salmon.

They transform humble ingredients into a star dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a satisfying lunch, or even a tasty appetizer. You’ll love how these versatile salmon patties come together in a flash, making mealtime stress-free and delicious.

Why You’ll Love These Salmon Patties

You are going to adore these fantastic salmon patties for so many reasons! They quickly become a family favorite, offering a blend of comfort and flavor that is hard to resist.

• Quick and Easy: Prepare these delicious salmon patties in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings. Minimal prep means more time enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen.
• Deliciously Flavorful: Each bite offers a wonderful combination of tender salmon, savory aromatics, and a hint of tang. The fresh parsley brightens every savory mouthful.
• Crispy Edges, Moist Interior: Pan-frying creates a perfectly golden, crunchy exterior that gives way to a wonderfully moist and tender inside. This texture contrast is simply irresistible.
• Versatile Meal Option: Serve them as a main course, a light lunch, or even miniaturized as a crowd-pleasing appetizer. They adapt beautifully to any mealtime need.
• Budget-Friendly: Using canned salmon makes this recipe incredibly economical without sacrificing flavor or nutrition. It’s a smart choice for a wholesome meal that won’t break the bank.
• Kid-Friendly and Healthy: These patties are a fantastic way to get healthy omega-3 fatty acids into your family’s diet.

According to Healthline, omega-3s found in salmon oil promote heart and brain health, supporting overall well-being.

Even picky eaters often love the mild flavor and pleasing texture.

Ingredients

Gather your simple ingredients to create these incredibly flavorful salmon patties. Each component plays a vital role in building the delightful taste and texture that makes this dish so popular.

• 14-15 oz canned salmon or salmon in packets, well drained
• 2 Tbsp olive oil, divided
• 2 Tbsp unsalted butter, divided
• 1 medium yellow onion, 1 cup, finely diced
• 1/2 red bell pepper, seeded and diced
• 1/2 cup Panko bread crumbs
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 2 Tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp garlic salt, or sub with 1/2 tsp fine sea salt and 1/4 tsp garlic powder, or season to taste
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup parsley, finely minced

Notes & Substitutions

• Salmon: Feel free to use canned salmon, salmon from a pouch, or any leftover cooked salmon you have on hand. Ensure it is very well-drained to prevent soggy patties.
• Binders: If your mixture feels too wet, add a little more Panko breadcrumbs, about a tablespoon at a time, until it holds its shape. If it feels too dry, a tiny bit more mayonnaise can help.
• Vegetables: Swap the red bell pepper with finely diced celery for a classic flavor, or add grated carrot for extra sweetness and moisture. Ensure all vegetables are finely diced for even cooking.
• Seasoning: Adjust the garlic salt and black pepper to your personal preference. A pinch of onion powder can also enhance the savory notes.
• Herbs: Fresh dill or chives are wonderful alternatives to parsley, offering a slightly different aromatic profile. Always use fresh herbs for the best flavor.

Equipment

You won’t need many specialized tools for these salmon patties, just a few kitchen essentials. This simplicity is part of what makes the recipe so beginner-friendly and appealing.

• Medium skillet for sautéing vegetables
• Large mixing bowl for combining ingredients
• Measuring cups and spoons for precise ingredient amounts
• Spatula for easy flipping of the patties
• Paper-towel-lined plate to drain excess oil after cooking

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create golden-brown, delicious salmon patties right in your kitchen. Remember, precision in preparation leads to perfect results.

1. Sauté Aromatics: Begin by setting a medium skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter to the pan. Once the butter has melted and the oil is shimmering, add the finely diced yellow onion and red bell pepper. Sauté these vegetables for about 7 to 9 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become wonderfully golden and softened. This step builds a foundational layer of flavor for your patties. When they are perfectly tender, remove the skillet from the heat and set the cooked aromatics aside to cool slightly.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the well-flaked and drained salmon with the sautéed pepper and onion mixture. Add the 1/2 cup of Panko bread crumbs, the lightly beaten large egg, 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise, and 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce. Season the mixture with 1 teaspoon of garlic salt (or your preferred salt and garlic powder combination) and 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Finally, stir in the 1/4 cup of finely minced fresh parsley. Gently stir all the ingredients together until they are just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the patties tough.
3. Form Patties: Once the mixture is ready, it’s time to shape your salmon patties. Scoop about a heaping tablespoonful of the mixture for each patty. With clean hands, gently mold the mixture into round, uniform patties, approximately 2 inches wide and about 1/3 to 1/2 inch thick. Aim for consistent sizing to ensure all your patties cook evenly. You should get roughly 8 to 10 patties from this mixture. Place the formed patties on a plate while you prepare for pan-frying.
4. Pan-Fry: Heat a clean, non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter to the pan. Allow the oil and butter to heat until hot and shimmering. Carefully place the formed salmon patties in a single layer in the hot pan, ensuring not to overcrowd it. Cook the patties for 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown and are cooked through. If you notice them browning too quickly, slightly reduce the heat to prevent burning.
5. Drain and Serve: Once the salmon patties are perfectly golden and cooked, carefully remove them from the pan with your spatula. Transfer the finished patties to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. This step helps maintain their crispy texture. Repeat the frying process with any remaining oil, butter, and patties. Garnish your freshly cooked patties with a sprinkle of extra fresh parsley, then serve them warm and enjoy!

Pro Tips for Perfect Salmon Patties

Unlock the secrets to truly outstanding salmon patties with these expert tips. A few small adjustments can make a big difference in flavor and texture.

• Drain Salmon Thoroughly: Squeeze out as much liquid as possible from canned salmon using a paper towel or a fine-mesh sieve. This crucial step prevents soggy patties and ensures a crisp exterior.
• Don’t Overmix: Gently combine your ingredients until just incorporated. Overmixing can break down the salmon too much, leading to a tougher, less flaky texture in your patties.
• Achieve Crispy Crust: Use medium-high heat and don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking. This allows the patties to brown beautifully without steaming, ensuring that coveted golden, crispy crust.
• Prevent Crumbling: Ensure your patty mixture has the right consistency. If it’s too loose, add a bit more Panko breadcrumbs. If it’s too dry, a touch more mayonnaise can help bind everything perfectly.
• Uniform Patty Size: Shape your patties to be roughly the same size and thickness. This ensures they cook evenly and prevents some from being undercooked while others are overdone.
• Alternative Cooking Methods: For a slightly healthier option, you can bake your patties at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway. Alternatively, air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, turning once, until golden and crisp.

To ensure food safety, the USDA recommends cooking seafood to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Serving, Storage, & Variations

These versatile salmon patties are not just easy to make; they’re also incredibly adaptable. Enjoy them in many ways, store them efficiently, or experiment with exciting flavor twists.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic Pairing: Serve your warm patties with a generous dollop of homemade tartar sauce, a squeeze of fresh lemon, or a zesty remoulade.
• Main Dish: Offer these delightful patties alongside a vibrant green salad, some steamed asparagus, or perfectly roasted root vegetables for a complete meal.
• Sandwich Option: Form larger patties to create delicious salmon burgers. Serve them on toasted buns with crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and your favorite burger toppings.
• Appetizer: Shape the mixture into small, bite-sized patties and serve them with various dipping sauces for an elegant and flavorful starter at your next gathering.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerate: Allow any leftover patties to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: For longer storage, freeze cooked and cooled patties in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
• Thaw & Reheat: Thaw frozen patties overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat them in a skillet over medium heat, in an air fryer, or in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and crisp again.

Flavor Variations

• Add a teaspoon of fresh lemon zest to the mixture for a brighter, more citrusy flavor profile.
• Incorporate a small pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to introduce a pleasant, subtle heat.
• Mix in finely diced jalapeño (seeded for less heat) for a spicy kick and a fresh crunch.

Nutrition Information

Enjoy these delicious salmon patties knowing they contribute to a wholesome diet. Salmon is a fantastic source of lean protein and beneficial omega-3 fatty acids.

Per Serving (1 patty):

• Calories: 94 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Protein: 7g
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Cholesterol: 40mg
• Sodium: 314mg
• Fiber: 0.4g
• Sugar: 1g
• Trans Fat: 0.1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g

Please note: Nutritional values are estimated and can vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Conclusion

You now have everything you need to create the most delicious and easy salmon patties! This recipe truly embodies Sweet Emily’s mission of making cooking simple, beginner-friendly, and time-saving. With their delightful flavor, crispy texture, and incredible versatility, these patties are sure to become a cherished addition to your recipe rotation.

Don’t hesitate to gather your ingredients and try this fantastic dish tonight. We encourage you to share your experience in the comments below, and explore more quick and easy recipes here at Sweet Emily!

Easy Salmon Patties Recipe

These quick and easy salmon patties are made with canned salmon, fresh vegetables, and simple seasonings, then pan-fried to a golden crisp. They are perfect for a weeknight meal or a light lunch.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings 4 patties

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

• Medium skillet
• large mixing bowl
• Non-stick pan
• Paper-towel-lined plate

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 14-15 oz canned salmon or salmon in packets well drained
• 2 Tbsp olive oil divided
• 2 Tbsp unsalted butter divided
• 1 medium yellow onion 1 cup, finely diced
• 1/2 red bell pepper seeded and diced
• 1/2 cup Panko bread crumbs
• 1 large egg lightly beaten
• 2 Tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp garlic salt or sub with 1/2 tsp fine sea salt and 1/4 tsp garlic powder, or season to taste
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup parsley finely minced

Instructions

 

Preparation

• Sauté diced onion and bell pepper in 1 Tbsp olive oil and 1 Tbsp butter over medium heat until golden and softened (7-9 minutes), then remove from heat.
• In a large bowl, combine flaked salmon, sautéed vegetables, bread crumbs, beaten egg, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, garlic salt, black pepper, and chopped parsley. Stir to combine thoroughly, then form the mixture into 2-inch wide by 1/3 to 1/2-inch thick patties.
• Heat the remaining 1 Tbsp oil and 1 Tbsp butter in a clean non-stick pan until hot. Add salmon patties in a single layer and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Reduce heat if they brown too quickly.
• Remove finished patties to a paper-towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Repeat the cooking process with any remaining oil, butter, and salmon patties until all are cooked.

Notes

For extra flavor, serve these salmon patties with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a dollop of tartar sauce. Ensure the salmon is well-drained to prevent soggy patties, and handle them gently when forming and flipping to keep them intact.