Old Fashioned Salmon Patties are a simple, tasty dish made with canned salmon, breadcrumbs, eggs, and some basic seasonings. They’re crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, with a nice fishy flavor that’s not too strong. These patties are a classic comfort food that feels like a warm hug from the past.
I love making these salmon patties when I want something quick but satisfying. It’s great to have the canned salmon ready, so you can mix everything together in just a few minutes. A little tip I keep in mind is to not overwork the mixture — just enough to hold together so the patties stay tender after cooking.
My favorite way to serve them is with a dollop of tartar sauce or a squeeze of fresh lemon on top, alongside some simple sides like mashed potatoes or a crisp green salad. They’re perfect for lunch or dinner, and they always bring back memories of family dinners or cozy weekend meals. If you’re looking for an easy, hearty recipe to try, these salmon patties are a wonderful choice.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Canned Salmon: This is the star of the dish. I like to use salmon with skin and bones—they add calcium and moisture. But if you prefer, you can use skinless, boneless salmon. Fresh salmon can work too, just cook and flake it before mixing.
Breadcrumbs: I use plain or panko breadcrumbs for a good texture. If you want a gluten-free option, crushed gluten-free crackers or oats work well to bind the patties.
Eggs & Mayonnaise: These help hold the mixture together. If you want a lighter version, you can swap mayo for Greek yogurt. For egg-free, try a flaxseed egg (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water).
Herbs & Seasonings: Fresh parsley or dill adds brightness. If fresh herbs are unavailable, dried versions are okay but add less. Lemon juice brightens flavors, and a little Dijon mustard adds a subtle kick but can be left out.
How Do You Get Crispy and Firm Salmon Patties Without Falling Apart?
The key to perfect salmon patties is in mixing and cooking:
- Mix ingredients gently until combined—overmixing makes patties tough.
- Make patties about 1 inch thick for even cooking.
- Use a non-stick or well-seasoned pan with enough oil to get a golden crust.
- Cook on medium heat so the outside crisps without burning, about 4-5 minutes per side.
- Don’t flip too soon; wait until a crust forms to prevent breaking.
- Drain on paper towels to keep them crisp after cooking.
These steps help the patties hold together with a nice crunch on the outside and a tender inside — just like homemade should be!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl – perfect for combining your salmon and ingredients gently without making a mess.
- Non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan – helps you get a nice crispy crust on the patties without sticking.
- Spatula – useful for flipping the patties carefully so they don’t fall apart.
- Measuring cups and spoons – ensures you add the right amounts every time for consistent results.
- Plate lined with paper towels – great for draining excess oil after frying to keep patties crisp.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap canned salmon for canned tuna or cooked crab to change up the flavors but keep the texture.
- Add finely chopped bell peppers or green onions for a mild crunch and extra color.
- Mix in shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese for a melty, cheesy twist that pairs well with salmon.
- Spice it up with a pinch of cayenne or chili powder when you want a bit of heat without overpowering the fish.
How to Make Old Fashioned Salmon Patties
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cans (14.75 ounces each) canned salmon, drained and flaked (bones and skin removed or left in for calcium)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or panko)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley or dill
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil, for frying
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Lettuce leaves, for plating
- Tartar sauce or a creamy dill sauce, for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare and another 10-15 minutes to cook the patties, so you can have a tasty meal ready in around 30 minutes total. It’s quick and perfect for a simple lunch or dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix Your Ingredients:
In a large bowl, gently combine the flaked salmon, chopped onion, breadcrumbs, fresh parsley or dill, beaten eggs, mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard if you’re using it, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix just until everything comes together — don’t overmix, or the patties might get tough.
2. Shape the Patties:
Using your hands, shape the salmon mixture into 8 equal patties. Each should be about 3 inches wide and 1 inch thick. Place them on a plate or tray, ready for cooking.
3. Cook the Patties:
Heat 2 to 3 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot (but not smoking), add the patties carefully without crowding the pan. Cook them for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy on the outside and heated through inside.
4. Drain and Serve:
Remove the patties from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve the patties warm on a bed of fresh lettuce leaves. Add lemon wedges and your favorite tartar sauce or creamy dill dip on the side for an extra pop of flavor.
Enjoy your delicious and comforting Old Fashioned Salmon Patties!
Can I Use Fresh Salmon Instead of Canned?
Yes! If using fresh salmon, cook and flake it before mixing with the other ingredients. Make sure it’s cooled to room temperature so it blends well and forms sturdy patties.
How Do I Store Leftover Salmon Patties?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat to keep them crispy or warm them in the microwave covered with a damp paper towel.
Can I Freeze Salmon Patties?
Absolutely! Freeze the uncooked patties on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen but add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What Can I Serve with Salmon Patties?
These patties go great with simple sides like mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, a fresh green salad, or rice. Don’t forget a squeeze of lemon and tartar sauce for extra flavor!
