If you are craving a delicious, comforting, and wholesome dish that comes together quickly and impresses every time, this Best Salmon Patties Recipe is your new go-to. Perfectly crisp on the outside yet tender and flavorful inside, these salmon patties bring the delicate taste of wild salmon together with fresh herbs and a touch of zing from Dijon mustard. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner that feels special or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these patties deliver a satisfying experience with simple pantry ingredients and a quick skillet technique.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to mastering this dish, and each one plays a key role in building the perfect texture and flavor balance. From the flaked salmon that provides richness to the crunchy breadcrumbs, every element works harmoniously to create patties you’ll want to make again and again.
- 2 (6-ounce) cans of wild salmon, drained and flaked: Wild salmon offers a robust, natural flavor and easy preparation when canned; remove bones if you prefer a smoother texture.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers: These bind the patties and add a subtle crunch to the final bite.
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped onion: Onion adds a sweet, savory note that brightens the mix.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: For a fresh, herbaceous kick and lovely green flecks throughout.
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise: This keeps the patties moist and rich without overpowering the salmon.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a natural binder to hold everything together while cooking.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Introducing a tangy depth that complements the fish beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a gentle garlic warmth that never steals the spotlight.
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika: Gives a hint of color and subtle smokiness for extra dimension.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning to make every flavor pop.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter for frying: Ensures a golden, crispy crust with a rich finish.
How to Make Best Salmon Patties Recipe
Step 1: Combine Your Ingredients
Start by mixing the flaked wild salmon with the breadcrumbs, chopped onion, fresh parsley, mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl. Get in there with a spoon or your hands and blend everything evenly. This mixture should be moist enough to hold together yet not too wet — this harmony is key to forming perfect patties.
Step 2: Shape the Patties
Once your mix is perfectly combined, gently divide it into 6 equal portions. Shape each one into a patty about the size of your palm, pressing lightly so they hold their shape but stay tender. If you want extra crispy results, pop the shaped patties into the fridge for 15 minutes before frying — this step is a little secret to keep them firm and less likely to break apart.
Step 3: Cook to Golden Perfection
Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering and hot. Carefully place your patties in the pan and cook for 3 to 4 minutes on one side until golden brown and crispy. Then, flip and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes on the other side, making sure each patty cooks through and develops that irresistible crust. When done, transfer the patties to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil and keep them delightfully crisp.
How to Serve Best Salmon Patties Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate the experience; bright lemon wedges squeezed over the patties add a lovely vibrancy. Try a dollop of creamy tartar sauce or a tangy yogurt-dill sauce to bring luscious coolness and contrast to the crispy exterior.
Side Dishes
These salmon patties play well with a variety of cozy sides. A fresh garden salad or crunchy coleslaw adds lovely texture and freshness. Roasted vegetables or lightly seasoned steamed green beans are wholesome companions that keep the meal balanced and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling adventurous? Serve the patties on mini slider buns with lettuce and a smear of aioli for a fun handheld treat. Or, place them over a bed of mixed greens topped with avocado and a drizzle of citrus vinaigrette for a light, elegant presentation that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover salmon patties, store them in an airtight container inside the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they cool completely before sealing to keep their texture and flavor intact.
Freezing
You can freeze uncooked or cooked patties by placing them on a lined baking sheet and freezing until solid, then transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen patties last for up to 2 months and are great for meal prep on busy days.
Reheating
Reheat leftover patties either in the oven, air fryer, or a hot skillet to reclaim that delightful crispness. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make the patties soggy. A quick 5 to 7 minutes in a 350°F oven works wonders to refresh their golden crust.
FAQs
Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh cooked salmon can be used as a substitute to create salmon patties. Just make sure to flake it finely and remove any bones beforehand. The flavor will be wonderful and the patties will hold together nicely with the other ingredients.
How can I make these salmon patties gluten-free?
Simply swap the breadcrumbs or crackers for gluten-free alternatives, such as gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. This way, you maintain the binding properties without gluten compromising the texture.
What can I do if my patties fall apart while cooking?
If your patties are crumbling, it might mean there isn’t enough binder like egg or breadcrumbs, or the mixture is too wet. Try chilling the patties before cooking to help them firm up. Adding a little more breadcrumbs can also stabilize the mixture.
Can I bake the patties instead of frying?
Yes, baking is a healthier alternative. Place patties on a greased baking sheet and bake at 375°F for 15 to 20 minutes, flipping halfway through. The patties won’t have quite the same crispy crust as frying, but they’ll still be delicious and moist.
What sauces go well with salmon patties?
Tartar sauce is a classic choice, but don’t hesitate to try other options like garlic aioli, lemon-dill yogurt sauce, or even a spicy sriracha mayo for a flavor boost. These condiments complement the patties and add layers of deliciousness.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about a plate of crispy, perfectly seasoned salmon patties, and this Best Salmon Patties Recipe delivers on all fronts—easy to prepare, bursting with flavor, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re making weeknight dinners or gathering friends for a casual bite, these patties bring joy and satisfaction to the table. Give this recipe a try soon, and I promise it will become a treasured favorite in your kitchen as it has in mine.
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Best Salmon Patties Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 patties
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
These Best Salmon Patties are a quick, easy, and delicious way to enjoy canned wild salmon. Crispy on the outside and tender inside, they’re packed with flavor from fresh parsley, Dijon mustard, and a blend of seasonings. Perfect for a main course, these patties can be served with lemon wedges, tartar sauce, or over a fresh salad for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Salmon Patties
- 2 (6-ounce) cans of wild salmon, drained and flaked (bones removed if desired)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped onion
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter for frying
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the flaked salmon, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, parsley, mayonnaise, egg, mustard, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined to create the patty mixture.
- Form Patties: Shape the mixture into 6 evenly sized patties by pressing gently to ensure they hold their shape during cooking.
- Heat Pan: Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat until hot and shimmering, ready for frying.
- Cook Patties: Place the patties carefully into the hot skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the patties and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. Serve warm with lemon wedges, tartar sauce, or over a salad.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, chill the patties in the refrigerator for 15 minutes before frying.
- You can substitute fresh cooked salmon instead of canned if preferred.
- Leftover patties reheat well in the oven or air fryer for convenience.
