Introduction: Why You’ll Love Salmon Patties

If you’re on the hunt for a quick, flavorful, and versatile dish that’s equally perfect as an appetizer, side, or main course, this Easy Salmon Patties Recipe is the one for you! With their flaky texture, crisp edges, and a delicious burst of salmon in every bite, these patties are guaranteed to win over even those who claim not to like fish.

These salmon patties can be made with pantry-friendly ingredients like canned salmon or elevated with leftover cooked salmon, making them a go-to for busy weeknights or fancy family gatherings. Whether you’re serving them with tartar sauce, on a salad, or in a sandwich bun, this recipe is about to become your new favorite. Let’s dive in!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up a batch of these delectable salmon patties for a crowd (14 patties), gather the following:

  • 14-15 oz canned salmon (or use boneless, skinless cooked salmon)
  • 2 Tbsp olive oil, divided
  • 2 Tbsp unsalted butter, divided
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced (about 1 cup)
  • ½ red bell pepper, seeded and diced
  • ½ cup Panko bread crumbs
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 2 Tbsp mayonnaise (add more if mixture is too dry)
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp garlic salt (or substitute ½ tsp sea salt + ¼ tsp garlic powder)
  • ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely minced

How to Make Salmon Patties: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by prepping the veggies for maximum flavor:

  1. Heat 1 Tbsp olive oil and 1 Tbsp butter in a medium skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, sautéing for 7-9 minutes until golden and softened.
  3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before combining with the other ingredients.

Pro Tip: Cooking the veggies brings out their natural sweetness and ensures they’ll blend seamlessly into the salmon mixture.

Step 2: Mix the Patties

Now it’s time to bring everything together:

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flaked salmon, sautéed onion and bell pepper, bread crumbs, beaten egg, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, garlic salt, black pepper, and parsley.
  2. Mix until well combined. If the mixture feels too dry, add an extra tablespoon of mayonnaise. If too wet, sprinkle in more bread crumbs.
  3. Use a heaping tablespoon of the mixture to form small patties about 2 inches wide and ½ inch thick.

Fun Fact: Did you know that adding a touch of mayonnaise to the mix not only helps bind the patties but also keeps them delightfully moist?

Step 3: Cook the Patties

For the best golden-brown crust:

  1. Heat 1 Tbsp olive oil and 1 Tbsp butter in a clean non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Place the patties in a single layer, ensuring they don’t touch, and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
  3. Transfer the cooked patties to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
  4. Repeat with the remaining oil, butter, and salmon mixture.

Pro Tip: If the patties brown too quickly, reduce the heat slightly to ensure they cook evenly.

Serving Suggestions

These salmon patties are incredibly versatile and pair wonderfully with a variety of sides and sauces. Here are some serving ideas:

  • Serve them as appetizers with a side of homemade tartar sauce.
  • Enjoy as a main course alongside creamy cucumber salad or oven-roasted broccoli.
  • Use them as burger patties in a bun with your favorite toppings for a hearty meal.

Pairing Idea: For a light and refreshing combo, serve with strawberry salad with honey vinaigrette or avocado corn salad.

Make-Ahead Tips

These salmon patties are perfect for meal prep. Here’s how to store them:

  • Refrigerate: Store cooked patties in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze: Place patties in a single layer in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
  • Reheat: Warm patties in a skillet or air fryer until heated through for the crispiest results.

Pro Tip: These patties are just as tasty cold, making them an excellent option for packed lunches.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned salmon? A: Absolutely! Just ensure it’s boneless and skinless. Flake the cooked salmon before mixing.

Q: My patties keep falling apart. What can I do? A: Make sure the mixture isn’t too dry or wet. Adjust by adding more mayo (if dry) or bread crumbs (if wet). Also, handle the patties gently during cooking.

Q: Can I bake these instead of frying them? A: Yes! Bake the patties at 375°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.

Conclusion: Why This Recipe Will Be Your New Favorite

Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavor, these salmon patties are a true crowd-pleaser. They’re quick to make, easy to customize, and perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a family gathering. Plus, with the option to make them ahead of time, they’re as convenient as they are delicious.

Give this Easy Salmon Patties Recipe a try today and see why it’s destined to become a staple in your kitchen. Don’t forget to pair them with your favorite sides and sauces for a complete meal. Happy cooking!