Easy Salmon Patties (Crispy Salmon Cakes)

If you need a quick, satisfying meal that doesn’t cost much, easy salmon patties (also called salmon cakes) are a classic. They’re crispy and golden on the outside, tender inside, and they work for everything—weeknight dinners, meal prep, or a simple sandwich.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Uses canned salmon (fast + affordable)
  • Ready in about 25 minutes
  • Easy to customize with herbs and spices
  • Great for meal prep and leftovers
  • Pan-fry, bake, or air-fry options included
Salmon-Patties-

Advertisement

Ingredients (Makes 8 patties)

  • 2 cans salmon, drained well (about 5–6 oz / 140–170 g each)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
  • 2 tbsp finely chopped onion (or green onion)
  • 2 tbsp chopped parsley (or dill)
  • 1 tbsp mayonnaise (optional, for extra moisture)
  • 1 tsp mustard (Dijon or yellow)
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice (plus zest, optional)
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder (or 1 small grated garlic clove)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2–3 tbsp oil, for frying

Optional add-ins: paprika, cayenne, Old Bay seasoning, chopped celery

How to Make Easy Salmon Patties (Step-by-Step)

1) Prep the salmon

Drain the salmon very well. Flake it with a fork.
(If your canned salmon includes soft bones/skin, you can mash and mix them in—they’re edible—or remove them if you prefer.)

2) Mix the patty mixture

In a bowl, combine:
salmon, egg, breadcrumbs, onion, herbs, mayo, mustard, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.

Mix until it holds together.

  • Too wet? Add 1–2 tbsp more breadcrumbs.
  • Too dry? Add 1 tbsp mayo or a splash of lemon juice.

3) Shape and chill (helps them hold together)

Form 8 patties (about 1/2-inch thick).
Chill for 10–15 minutes.

4) Pan-fry until golden

Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Cook patties for 3–4 minutes per side, until crisp and golden.
Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.

Baking or Air Fryer Options

Bake

  • Oven: 400°F (200°C)
  • Bake 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway

Air Fry

  • Air fryer: 375°F (190°C)
  • Cook 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway
    (Light oil spray helps browning.)

Best Sauces for Salmon Cakes

  • Tartar sauce
  • Lemon-dill yogurt sauce
  • Sriracha mayo
  • Garlic aioli
  • Honey mustard

What to Serve with Salmon Patties

  • Green salad + lemon vinaigrette
  • Roasted potatoes or sweet potato fries
  • Rice and steamed veggies
  • Coleslaw
  • Sandwich buns with pickles and lettuce

Tips for Crispy, Non-Crumbly Patties

  • Drain the salmon well (extra moisture causes breakage)
  • Chill before cooking for better structure
  • Keep heat medium (too hot burns outside before heating through)
  • Don’t flip too early—wait until the first side is well-browned

Storage & Reheating

  • Fridge: 3–4 days in an airtight container
  • Freezer: up to 2 months (cook then freeze, or freeze uncooked patties)
  • Reheat: skillet or air fryer for best crispiness (microwave softens them)

FAQ

Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?
Yes. Cook fresh salmon first (bake or pan-sear), flake it, then follow the same recipe.

Why do my salmon patties fall apart?
Usually too much moisture or not enough binder. Drain well, add breadcrumbs, and chill before frying.

Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes—use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers.