There’s something truly invigorating about transforming humble canned salmon into a culinary delight. As the warm scent of sautéed onions and peppers fills the kitchen, my mind drifts to cozy family gatherings where every little bite is savored. This Easy Salmon Patties Recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when fast food just won’t do—a tasty alternative that puts a wholesome spin on dinner!
I remember when I first decided to whip these up; I was looking for a way to bring excitement to the dinner table without spending hours in the kitchen. Just imagine: crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor! They’re not only quick to prepare but also versatile. Pair them with a refreshing salad or a zesty dipping sauce, and they’ll impress anyone who takes a bite. So grab that canned salmon, and let’s get cooking—dinner just became your favorite meal of the week!
Why is this Easy Salmon Patties Recipe a Must-Try?
Crispy Perfection: These patties have a delightful crispy exterior, giving way to tender, flaky salmon inside.
Quick Cooking Time: Perfect for busy nights, you can whip these up in no time, leaving you free to enjoy with family or friends.
Flavorful Ingredients: A tantalizing blend of onions, peppers, and seasonings elevate the canned salmon to new heights, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor!
Versatile Meal Option: Serve them as an appetizer or a main dish, and they pair beautifully with your favorite sides, making it easy to customize for any occasion.
Kid-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters love them, making this a great way to introduce seafood into your family’s diet. For more fun meal ideas, check out our easy dinner recipes!
Easy Salmon Patties Ingredients
For the Patties
• Canned salmon – 14-15 oz, well-drained; this is the star ingredient of our Easy Salmon Patties Recipe!
• Olive oil – 2 Tbsp, divided; use for sautéing veggies and frying the patties for a crisp finish.
• Unsalted butter – 2 Tbsp, divided; adds richness and enhances the flavor during cooking.
• Yellow onion – 1 medium, finely diced (about 1 cup); contributes sweetness and depth to the patties.
• Red bell pepper – 1/2, seeded and diced; adds a pop of color and a mild sweetness that balances the flavors.
• Panko bread crumbs – 1/2 cup; gives the patties their delightful crunch.
• Large egg – 1, lightly beaten; acts as a binder to hold everything together.
• Mayonnaise – 2 Tbsp; adds moisture and a hint of creaminess to the patties.
• Worcestershire sauce – 1 tsp; brings a savory, umami flavor that elevates the taste.
• Garlic salt – 1 tsp; a simple way to infuse the patties with garlicky goodness.
• Black pepper – 1/4 tsp, freshly ground; enhances the overall flavor with a touch of warmth.
• Parsley – 1/4 cup, finely minced; freshens up the dish and gives it a vibrant touch.
This collection of ingredients will have you on your way to creating delicious salmon patties the whole family will love!
How to Make Easy Salmon Patties
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Sauté Vegetables: Set a medium skillet over medium heat with 1 Tbsp olive oil and 1 Tbsp butter. Add the finely diced onion and red bell pepper. Sauté until golden and softened, about 7-9 minutes. Then, remove from heat and let cool slightly.
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Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the well-drained flaked salmon, sautéed onion and pepper, Panko bread crumbs, beaten egg, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, garlic salt, black pepper, and minced parsley. Stir gently to combine until everything is well mixed.
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Form Patties: With your hands, scoop about a heaping tablespoon of the mixture and mold it into 2″ wide by 1/3 to 1/2″ thick patties. Set aside as you prepare to cook.
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Cook Patties: In a clean non-stick pan, heat the remaining 1 Tbsp of olive oil and 1 Tbsp of butter over medium heat. Add the salmon patties in a single layer, cooking for 3 to 4 minutes per side or until they are golden brown and cooked through. If they brown too quickly, reduce the heat.
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Drain and Serve: Once cooked, transfer the salmon patties to a paper-towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Repeat with the remaining patties until all are cooked.
Optional: Serve with a squeeze of lemon for an extra zing!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Easy Salmon Patties Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists on our easy salmon patties recipe to match your taste and dietary preferences!
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Herb-Infused: Add fresh dill or chives for a burst of flavor that complements the salmon beautifully. It brightens each bite!
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Spicy Kick: Mix in finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to elevate the heat level. Perfect for those who crave a little fire!
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Cheesy Delight: Fold in crumbled feta or shredded cheddar cheese for a creamy texture that melts in your mouth. It creates a delightful savory surprise.
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Quinoa Boost: Substitute half of the Panko with cooked quinoa for an extra protein punch and subtle nutty flavor. It’ll also add a nice texture!
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Asian Twist: Incorporate sesame oil, green onions, and a hint of soy sauce for a delicious Asian flavor profile. Serve with a soy dipping sauce for added flair.
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Mediterranean Style: Replace the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt and add olives and sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist. Each bite transports you to the shores of Greece!
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Veggie Lovers: Mix in finely diced zucchini or corn to boost the vegetable content while adding sweetness. Great for those who want to add more veggies to their meal.
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Smoky Flavor: Use smoked salmon instead of regular canned salmon for a rich, smoky taste that adds depth to the patties. It’s a gourmet touch that makes a difference!
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Salmon Patties Recipe are a fantastic option for meal prep lovers! You can prepare the salmon patty mixture up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just be sure to keep the mixture well-covered to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to cook, simply form the patties and sauté them for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. This method not only saves you time on hectic weeknights but ensures the flavors meld beautifully, resulting in just as delicious salmon patties. So, whip up the mixture ahead of time and enjoy a quick, satisfying meal with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Easy Salmon Patties?
Elevate your meal experience with sides that compliment the rich, savory flavors of salmon.
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Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: Their slight sweetness and crunchy texture provide a delightful contrast to the tender patties, making every bite enjoyable.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, they are a comforting side that pairs beautifully with the crispy salmon patties, enriching the meal experience.
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Zesty Cucumber Salad: Bright and refreshing, this salad adds a crunchy element to balance the richness of the salmon, keeping the palate refreshed.
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Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy slaw adds a refreshing crunch that enhances the meal, with a flavor punch that contrasts nicely with the salmon.
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Lemon Dill Sauce: A bright, citrusy dipping sauce that complements the flavor of the patties and adds an extra layer of deliciousness.
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Steamed Asparagus: Tender, lightly sautéed asparagus adds a lovely green crunch, bringing both texture and healthiness to your dinner plate.
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Quinoa Salad: This nutty, wholesome dish adds a nutritious base and a variety of flavors, making your meal feel complete and satisfying.
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Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay pairs effortlessly, cutting through the richness of the salmon while enhancing its flavors.
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Lemon Sorbet: A light and refreshing dessert that offers a palate-cleansing finish to your meal, leaving everyone satisfied but not overly full.
Expert Tips for Easy Salmon Patties
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Drain Well: Make sure your canned salmon is well-drained. Excess liquid can make the patties soggy and difficult to hold together.
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Customize Bindings: If you want a gluten-free option, swap out Panko bread crumbs for crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour—just as tasty!
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Heat Control: Watch your heat when frying. If patties brown too quickly, lower the heat to ensure they cook evenly without burning.
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Chill Before Cooking: If you have time, chill formed patties in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This helps them maintain their shape while cooking.
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Testing for Flavor: Always taste a small bit of the mixture before forming patties. Adjust seasoning, especially salt, to suit your palate for this Easy Salmon Patties Recipe!
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Versatile Dipping Sauce: Pair these with a homemade tartar sauce or a spicy aioli for a flavorful kick that complements the salmon patties beautifully!
How to Store and Freeze Easy Salmon Patties
Fridge: Place cooled salmon patties in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in a non-stick pan over medium heat for a few minutes on each side.
Freezer: To freeze, arrange formed but uncooked patties on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer to a freezer bag, saving space, and store for up to 3 months.
Reheating: For frozen patties, cook from frozen in a skillet over medium heat for about 6-8 minutes per side until heated through and golden brown. Enjoy your Easy Salmon Patties anytime!
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving cooked salmon patties out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to maintain freshness and safety.
Easy Salmon Patties Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right canned salmon?
Absolutely! Look for canned salmon that is packed in water rather than oil for a lighter option. Check the label for “wild-caught” for a more flavorful choice, and ensure the can is not dented or rusty, which could affect freshness.
How should I store leftover salmon patties?
Very simple! Place your cooled salmon patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator where they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just reheat in a non-stick pan over medium heat for a few minutes on each side—easy peasy!
Can I freeze the salmon patties?
Absolutely! To freeze, first arrange formed but uncooked patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze them until they’re solid, then transfer to a zip-top freezer bag for up to 3 months. To cook from frozen, simply sauté in a skillet over medium heat for about 6-8 minutes per side, and they will be just as delicious!
What should I do if the mixture is too dry?
If your mixture feels dry and crumbly, don’t worry, it’s easy to fix! Simply add a splash of water or an extra tablespoon of mayonnaise to provide moisture. Mix gently until you reach the desired consistency. You want it moist enough to hold together but with a bit of structure.
Are there any dietary considerations for these salmon patties?
Yes, definitely! If you’re making these for someone with a fish allergy, unfortunately, this recipe won’t work, but you could adapt it using canned chickpeas as a substitute. If gluten is a concern, try using gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of Panko, which can work equally well!
How long can I keep cooked salmon patties at room temperature?
It’s essential to take care here! Cooked salmon patties should not be left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours. After this time, they may not be safe to eat, so be sure to store any leftovers promptly to ensure freshness.
Easy Salmon Patties Recipe for Crispy Deliciousness at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Set a medium skillet over medium heat with 1 Tbsp olive oil and 1 Tbsp butter. Add the finely diced onion and red bell pepper. Sauté until golden and softened, about 7-9 minutes. Then, remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the well-drained flaked salmon, sautéed onion and pepper, Panko bread crumbs, beaten egg, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, garlic salt, black pepper, and minced parsley. Stir gently to combine until everything is well mixed.
- With your hands, scoop about a heaping tablespoon of the mixture and mold it into 2" wide by 1/3 to 1/2" thick patties. Set aside as you prepare to cook.
- In a clean non-stick pan, heat the remaining 1 Tbsp of olive oil and 1 Tbsp of butter over medium heat. Add the salmon patties in a single layer, cooking for 3 to 4 minutes per side or until they are golden brown and cooked through. If they brown too quickly, reduce the heat.
- Once cooked, transfer the salmon patties to a paper-towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Repeat with the remaining patties until all are cooked.