14 Easy Salmon Patties Recipes
I still remember the aroma of crispy salmon patties frying in the pan on Friday nights in my childhood kitchen. My grandma would whip them up with canned salmon, a splash of mustard, and whatever herbs she had on hand from her garden. They were our budget-friendly family staple—crunchy on the outside, flaky and moist inside—served with tartar sauce and a side of coleslaw. Those simple patties taught me early on that great comfort food doesn’t need fancy ingredients.
Fast forward to my recent kitchen experiments during a hectic work-from-home phase. With canned salmon always stocked in my pantry, I’ve been playing around with global flavors and health boosts, like adding quinoa for extra protein or lemon zest for brightness. These patties have become my go-to for quick weeknight dinners that feel indulgent but take under 30 minutes.
In today’s fast-paced world, salmon patties shine as an affordable, omega-3-packed protein source that’s versatile for any diet—gluten-free tweaks, low-carb options, or veggie-loaded versions. They’re perfect for meal prep, kids’ lunches, or impressing guests without the fuss.
Classic Salmon Patties
These timeless patties use basic pantry staples for a nostalgic bite. Ingredients (makes 8 patties): 2 cans (14 oz each) salmon (drained), 2 eggs, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup finely chopped onion, 2 tbsp mayonnaise, 1 tsp mustard, salt and pepper to taste.
Mix all ingredients in a bowl until combined, form into patties, and pan-fry in 2 tbsp oil over medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side until golden. They’re quick to make, rich in protein and healthy fats for heart health, and freezer-friendly for busy days.
Lemon Herb Salmon Patties
Bright and zesty, these patties get a fresh twist with citrus and herbs. Ingredients: 2 cans salmon, 2 eggs, 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs, zest and juice of 1 lemon, 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill and parsley, 1 minced garlic clove, salt.
Combine everything, shape into patties, and fry in olive oil for 4 minutes per side. The lemon cuts richness while herbs add antioxidants; ideal for a light lunch with boosted vitamin C.
Spicy Cajun Salmon Patties
Kick up the heat with bold Cajun spices for a Southern flair. Ingredients: 2 cans salmon, 2 eggs, 1/2 cup cornmeal, 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning, 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper and onion, 1 tsp hot sauce.
Mix well, form patties, and cook in 2 tbsp butter for 3-4 minutes each side. Metabolism-boosting spices and salmon’s omega-3s make these anti-inflammatory and energizing.
Asian-Inspired Salmon Patties
Soy-ginger flavors bring an umami-packed, teriyaki vibe. Ingredients: 2 cans salmon, 1 egg, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp grated ginger, 2 green onions (chopped), 1 tsp sesame oil.
Stir together, patty up, and fry 3 minutes per side; serve with rice. Low-calorie with ginger’s digestive benefits and salmon’s brain-boosting nutrients.
Mediterranean Salmon Patties
Sun-kissed with feta and olives for a Greek-inspired delight. Ingredients: 2 cans salmon, 2 eggs, 1/3 cup breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup crumbled feta, 2 tbsp chopped Kalamata olives, 1 tsp oregano, lemon juice.
Mix, form, and pan-sear 4 minutes per side. Heart-healthy olives and feta provide probiotics and calcium alongside salmon’s fats.
Cheesy Salmon Patties
Melty cheddar makes these irresistibly gooey inside. Ingredients: 2 cans salmon, 2 eggs, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 1 cup shredded cheddar, 1/4 cup chopped onion, 1 tsp garlic powder.
Combine, shape patties, fry until cheese oozes (4 mins/side). Protein powerhouse with calcium for bones; kid-approved comfort.
Garlic Parmesan Salmon Patties
Crispy, garlicky crust with nutty Parmesan. Ingredients: 2 cans salmon, 1 egg, 1/2 cup panko, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan, 3 minced garlic cloves, 2 tbsp parsley, pepper.
Mix, coat in extra panko-Parmesan, fry 3-4 mins/side. Immunity-boosting garlic pairs with salmon for anti-aging benefits.
Dill Pickle Salmon Patties
Tangy pickles add crunch and zing like elevated tuna salad. Ingredients: 2 cans salmon, 2 eggs, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup chopped dill pickles, 2 tbsp pickle juice, 1 tsp dried dill.
Form and fry 3 mins/side. Probiotic pickles aid gut health; low-carb and refreshing.
Sweet Potato Salmon Patties
Nutty sweet potatoes for a gluten-free, veggie boost. Ingredients: 2 cans salmon, 1 cup mashed sweet potato, 1 egg, 1/4 cup almond flour, 1 tsp cumin, salt.
Mix, patty, bake at 400°F for 15 mins or fry. Beta-carotene from sweet potatoes enhances eye health with salmon’s omegas.
Quinoa Salmon Patties
Protein-packed with nutty quinoa for texture. Ingredients: 2 cans salmon, 1 cup cooked quinoa, 1 egg, 1/4 cup breadcrumbs, 2 tbsp chopped cilantro, lime juice.
Combine, form, fry 4 mins/side. Superfood quinoa doubles protein; great for athletes or plant-based diets.
Coconut Curry Salmon Patties
Tropical curry warmth in every bite. Ingredients: 2 cans salmon, 1 egg, 1/2 cup coconut flakes, 1 tbsp curry powder, 1/4 cup chopped onion, 1 tsp turmeric.
Mix, shallow-fry 3-4 mins/side. Anti-inflammatory turmeric and coconut fats support joint health.
BBQ Salmon Patties
Smoky barbecue sauce for grill-like flavor indoors. Ingredients: 2 cans salmon, 2 eggs, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup BBQ sauce, 1 tsp smoked paprika, onion.
Stir, patty, cook 4 mins/side. Antioxidant-rich with a fun twist; perfect for summer vibes.
Greek Yogurt Salmon Patties
Creamy yogurt keeps them moist and light. Ingredients: 2 cans salmon, 1/2 cup Greek yogurt, 1 egg, 1/3 cup breadcrumbs, dill, lemon zest.
Mix gently, fry 3 mins/side. Probiotic yogurt aids digestion; lower fat than mayo versions.
Avocado Salmon Patties
Creamy avocado for a green goddess glow. Ingredients: 2 cans salmon, 1 ripe avocado (mashed), 1 egg, 1/4 cup breadcrumbs, lime juice, cilantro.
Blend, form, pan-fry 3-4 mins/side. Healthy fats from avocado amplify salmon’s for skin health.
Salmon patties are your ticket to effortless, nutritious meals—grab a can from the pantry, pick your favorite from this list, and fry up dinner tonight. Which one will you try first? Share your twists in the comments!
