The first time I made Old Fashioned Salmon Patties, it felt like unearthing a treasured family recipe passed down through generations. As the warm, golden crust formed in the skillet, the savory scent of crispy salmon mingled with the zesty tang of lemon, taking me back to cozy dinners at Grandma’s house. There’s something utterly comforting about biting into these delicate patties, where every mouthful bursts with flavor and nostalgia.
Life often feels too hurried, and I found myself craving a meal that would transport me back to simpler times—a dish that’s quick to prepare but rich in taste. Whether you’re too busy for takeout or looking to treat friends and family to a homemade delight, these salmon patties deliver on all fronts. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a satisfying meal that’s not only delicious but also feels like a warm hug on a plate. Grab a can of salmon, and let’s get cooking!
Why Are Old Fashioned Salmon Patties a Must-Try?
Simplicity made extraordinary: With just a few accessible ingredients, you’ll have a gourmet meal ready in no time.
Rich, Savory Flavor: The combination of salmon, lemon, and herbs creates a delightful burst of taste in every bite.
Nostalgic Comfort: These patties evoke warm memories of family gatherings, making them perfect for any occasion.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve them as an entrée, snack, or even on a sandwich for a delicious twist.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether it’s a family dinner or a casual get-together, they’re sure to impress your guests!
And for a delightful pairing, consider serving your patties with homemade tartar sauce for added flavor.
Old Fashioned Salmon Patties Ingredients
• Get ready to create something delicious!
For the Patties
- Crushed Ritz cracker crumbs – adds a delightful crunch and binds the mixture perfectly.
- Canned salmon – the star ingredient; drain well for a firmer patty.
- Eggs – whisked to help bind the patties together and improve texture.
- Lemon juice – brightens the flavors and adds a lovely zing.
- Green onions – finely sliced for a fresh, mild onion flavor that enhances the dish.
- Dried parsley flakes – brings a touch of color and earthy flavor that complements the salmon.
For Frying
- Vegetable oil – heats up quickly, providing a crispy outer layer for your salmon patties.
Once you gather these ingredients, you’ll be just moments away from indulging in the comfort of Old Fashioned Salmon Patties!
How to Make Old Fashioned Salmon Patties
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Crush the Crackers: Place about 25 Ritz crackers in a zipped-top plastic food storage bag. Seal the bag and use a rolling pin to crush the crackers into fine crumbs. This adds great texture to your patties!
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Prepare the Salmon: Drain the canned salmon thoroughly. If it includes any skin or bones, gently remove them. This ensures your patties are smooth, delightful bites full of flavor.
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Mix the Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the drained salmon, whisked eggs, lemon juice, sliced green onions, dried parsley flakes, and the crushed cracker crumbs. Blend everything well until it’s nicely combined.
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Form the Patties: Scoop about ½ cup of the salmon mixture from the bowl and shape it into a flat patty, approximately one inch thick. This should yield about 6 hearty patties.
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Heat the Oil: Pour the vegetable oil into a large skillet and heat it over medium-high until the oil starts to shimmer. This indicates it’s hot enough to fry the patties to golden perfection.
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Cook the Patties: Gently place the salmon patties in the hot oil, ensuring there’s space between each one. If needed, cook in batches to prevent overcrowding.
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Fry Until Golden: Cook the patties for about 8 minutes, then carefully flip them over. Fry for another 5-6 minutes, or until they are firm and golden brown. Adjust the heat if necessary to avoid burning.
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Serve Warm: Remove the patties from the skillet and serve them with fresh lemon wedges, a sprinkle of additional diced green onions, and a side of tartar sauce for dipping.
Optional: Serve with a crispy salad for a refreshing side.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Old Fashioned Salmon Patties
Chill the Mixture: Keep the salmon mixture in the fridge for about 30 minutes before forming patties. It helps them hold their shape better while frying.
Shake Off Excess Moisture: When draining the salmon, ensure you squeeze out as much liquid as possible. This prevents soggy patties and helps achieve that perfect crispiness.
Control the Heat: If the oil starts to smoke, it’s too hot; lower the heat to avoid burning the patties. Aim for a medium-high setting for even cooking.
Mind the Size: Make sure your patties are uniform in size. This ensures even cooking, so you won’t end up with some patties overcooked while others are underdone.
Tricky Flipping: Use a spatula that’s wide and sturdy for flipping the patties—this will allow you to flip them without breaking.
Serve Fresh: Old Fashioned Salmon Patties are best enjoyed right after frying. Reheating can make them lose their delightful texture.
Make Ahead Options
These Old Fashioned Salmon Patties are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can mix the salmon mixture (up to 24 hours in advance) by combining the drained salmon, eggs, lemon juice, green onions, parsley, and crushed cracker crumbs in a bowl. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. To maintain freshness and quality, form the patties just before frying—this helps ensure they stay crispy on the outside when cooked. When it’s time to enjoy your meal, heat the oil and cook the freshly formed patties as directed. You’ll find that they taste just as delicious as if made from scratch daily!
How to Store and Freeze Old Fashioned Salmon Patties
Fridge: Store leftover salmon patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They can be enjoyed cold or reheated.
Freezer: To freeze, place cooled patties in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: For best results, reheat frozen patties in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until heated through and crispy again.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving salmon patties at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent spoilage.
What to Serve with Old Fashioned Salmon Patties?
Elevate your salmon patties dinner with delicious sides that complement their savory goodness.
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Crispy Coleslaw: Provides a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the patties with a tangy dressing.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery mashed potatoes create a comforting base, perfect for pairing with the crispy patties. They soak up flavors beautifully!
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Lemon Dill Rice: Fluffy rice brightened with lemon and dill enhances the dish’s fresh elements, making each bite delightful and light.
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Steamed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans tossed with a bit of olive oil and sea salt add a lovely pop of color and healthiness to your plate.
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Homemade Tartar Sauce: This classic condiment, creamy with a hint of tang, beautifully complements the patties and enhances their flavor.
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Cool Cucumber Salad: A chilled salad of thinly sliced cucumbers and a touch of vinegar adds a refreshing contrast to the warm, savory patties.
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Chilled White Wine: A crisp, chilled Sauvignon Blanc pairs wonderfully, enhancing the meal while its acidity cuts through the richness of the salmon.
Whichever option you choose, these pairings will create a cozy, satisfying meal showcasing the comforting charm of your Old Fashioned Salmon Patties!
Old Fashioned Salmon Patties Variations
Feel free to get creative and tailor these delicious salmon patties to suit your taste buds or dietary needs!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour for the Ritz crumbs to keep it gluten-free and equally delightful.
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Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of your favorite hot sauce or some diced jalapeños to the mixture for an exciting heat that elevates every bite.
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Herb-Infused: Incorporate fresh herbs like dill or cilantro for a fragrant twist; these fresh flavors will lift your patties to new heights!
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Paleo-Friendly: Swap out the crackers for finely grated cauliflower or almond flour, creating a version that’s deliciously aligned with paleo diets.
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Savory Cheese: Mix in some crumbled feta or shredded cheddar cheese for a creamy, cheesy surprise that will melt in your mouth.
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Vegetable Boost: Fold in finely diced bell peppers or grated zucchini for extra nutrition and a moist texture that keeps the patties tender.
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Crispy Oven-Baked: Instead of frying, place formed patties on a baking sheet and brush with oil. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes for a healthier choice!
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Asian Twist: Add ginger and sesame oil, then serve with a soy sauce and green onion dipping sauce for a flavor adventure that’s truly memorable.
Old Fashioned Salmon Patties Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best canned salmon for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for canned salmon that is packed in water or oil, preferably boneless and skinless for convenience. Check for a bright color and a clean, fresh smell. The best options are those that come in BPA-free cans, and make sure to avoid any with extensive dark spots or an unusual metallic odor.
What’s the best way to store leftover salmon patties?
To keep your leftover Old Fashioned Salmon Patties fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They can be enjoyed cold or reheated in a skillet until warmed through. Just remember to use a paper towel to absorb extra moisture if you’re concerned about sogginess!
Can I freeze salmon patties? If so, how?
Yes, you can freeze them! After cooking, allow the patties to cool completely. Arrange them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until firm, about 1-2 hours. Then, transfer them into a freezer-safe bag, separating layers with parchment paper if needed. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until heated through and crispy.
What should I do if my salmon patties are too crumbly?
No worries! If your patties are falling apart, it likely means there wasn’t enough binding. Try adding an extra egg or a little more crushed crackers to the mixture to help them hold together better. Remember to gently combine the ingredients; overmixing can also lead to crumbly patties!
Are Old Fashioned Salmon Patties safe for my pets?
While salmon is generally safe for dogs, pet owners should avoid giving them salmon patties due to the seasoning and ingredients like onion and garlic, which can be toxic to pets. If you’d like to share a little fish with your furry friend, plain cooked salmon (without seasoning) is always a better choice!
How can I tell if my salmon patties are cooked through?
You’ll want them to be firm to the touch and golden brown on both sides. If you’re unsure, a quick internal temperature check of around 145°F (63°C) will ensure your patties are safely cooked. Just insert a food thermometer into the thickest part of a patty to check. Enjoy your cooking!
Old Fashioned Salmon Patties That Bring Comfort Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Crush the Crackers: Place about 25 Ritz crackers in a zipped-top plastic food storage bag. Seal the bag and use a rolling pin to crush the crackers into fine crumbs.
- Prepare the Salmon: Drain the canned salmon thoroughly. If it includes any skin or bones, gently remove them.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the drained salmon, whisked eggs, lemon juice, sliced green onions, dried parsley flakes, and the crushed cracker crumbs. Blend everything well until it's nicely combined.
- Form the Patties: Scoop about ½ cup of the salmon mixture from the bowl and shape it into a flat patty, approximately one inch thick. This should yield about 6 hearty patties.
- Heat the Oil: Pour the vegetable oil into a large skillet and heat it over medium-high until the oil starts to shimmer.
- Cook the Patties: Gently place the salmon patties in the hot oil, ensuring there's space between each one.
- Fry Until Golden: Cook the patties for about 8 minutes, then carefully flip them over. Fry for another 5-6 minutes, or until they are firm and golden brown.
- Serve Warm: Remove the patties from the skillet and serve them with fresh lemon wedges, a sprinkle of additional diced green onions, and a side of tartar sauce for dipping.